Adrianna Kleckley McCullar
Founder | Executive Director
Adrianna Kleckley McCullar is a graduate of the University of South Carolina, earning her degree in Psychology. She has worked with children with Autism for over twenty years, four of those years as a Lead ABA therapist and twenty years as an Early Interventionist. Adrianna also has lifetime of experience living with a family member with special needs as she is a proud sister to her younger brother, Reuben.
Adrianna founded Carolina Behavior & Beyond in August of 2011. She has served on the Board of Directors for the Unumb Center of Neurodevelopment since 2012. She is extremely passionate about serving the underserved in rural counties across South Carolina. In 2014, Adrianna created The CB&B Adopt A Family program to assist families in rural areas at Christmas.
Mrs. McCullar lives in Lexington County and is married to her husband, Brent. She enjoys being a mom, taking care of her animals, spending time with family at the beach and decorating.
Adrianna founded Carolina Behavior & Beyond in August of 2011. She has served on the Board of Directors for the Unumb Center of Neurodevelopment since 2012. She is extremely passionate about serving the underserved in rural counties across South Carolina. In 2014, Adrianna created The CB&B Adopt A Family program to assist families in rural areas at Christmas.
Mrs. McCullar lives in Lexington County and is married to her husband, Brent. She enjoys being a mom, taking care of her animals, spending time with family at the beach and decorating.
“Having a younger brother with special needs, I know the everyday struggles families go through and I feel that it’s very important to have a hopeful and positive outlook for the future. I try to pass along this approach to each of the families I serve. I enjoy the challenge of working with children with Autism and behavior issues and believe that every child has potential that should never be limited. I love what I do, it’s truly amazing to see a child develop and transform before my very eyes.”
Katie Wilson
Director of Early Intervention
Midlands Office
Katie Wilson is a graduate of the University of South Carolina with a degree in Early Childhood Education. After working in the public school system and seeing the variety of needs that each child brings to the classroom, Katie decided to return to USC, where she received her Masters Degree in Early Childhood Special Education.
Katie has more than fifteen years experience working with children and nine of those years working with children with special needs. She specializes in autism, speech delay, and children that display difficult behavior issues. Katie has a daughter that received early intervention services and has seen first hand what a difference early intervention can make in a child’s future.
“I began my journey working with special needs children when I was interning for my undergraduate degree. I was placed in a self-contained autism classroom, and I was very unsure of myself because that scenario was out of my comfort zone. I decided to dive right in and soon realized I’d found my calling.”
Sarah Samundsen
Early Intervention Supervisor
Midlands Office
My name is Sarah Samundsen. I am a native of Aiken, SC and I received my undergraduate degree from the University of South Carolina- Aiken in Sociology with minors in both Psychology and Educational Services. I relocated to Columbia, SC after college and I love it here. Growing up, I always knew I wanted to work with individuals with special needs. Throughout high school and college I was a caregiver for an amazing girl with Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy. Getting to know her, my passion for working with children with special needs became a calling. I have been an early interventionist for 3 years and I am so excited to continue my career with Carolina Behavior & Beyond!
The best part about being an EI is getting to watch/help a child grow, learn, and develop to the best of their ability and to provide parents with the knowledge and confidence to navigate through everything alongside their child(ren). Being an EI is truly not just a job, it’s a passion
Midlands Office
Crystal Collum
Early Intervention Supervisor
Midlands Office
I began working with kids when I was 16 years old teaching gymnastics to toddlers. I knew from an early age that I wanted to be in education and graduated with my Masters of Early Childhood from the University of South Carolina in 2003. I loved being in the classroom and instantly forged bonds with my children with Autism. I strongly believed that teaching in the child’s natural environment & having a team approach was the key to success. Once I saw the impact that this approach had on learning, this led me to my career in Early Intervention. I left the classroom 10 years ago to become an Early Interventionist and have never looked back. As an EI, being able to work through the struggles and witness the triumphs of the families I work with, is a priceless honor.
“I have had a passion for working with children for as long as i can remember and my love for working with them has only grown.``
Whitney Tipton
Early Intervention Supervisor
Midlands Office
Whitney is from North Augusta, SC but has lived in the Midlands area for 5 years now. She has a Bachelors of the Arts (B.A.) degree in Early Childhood Education from Lander University. She has worked in the early intervention field since 2010. She has two daughters and lives in Lexington with her husband, Justin.
Adrianna founded Carolina Behavior & Beyond in August of 2011. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Autism Academy of SC. She has also been a Guest Speaker at the Family Connection Conference for many years.
Adrianna founded Carolina Behavior & Beyond in August of 2011. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Autism Academy of SC. She has also been a Guest Speaker at the Family Connection Conference for many years.
“I always knew I wanted to work with children in some aspect, but it was not until I was in college that I learned how. I started volunteering to work with individuals with special needs in college and have never looked back. I know this is where I am meant to be.”
Amber Hunter
Quality Assurance Coordinator
Midlands Office
Amber has lived in the Columbia area most of her life and received her Bachelors of the Arts (B.A.) degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of South Carolina. She worked six years in the Special Needs ministry at her church. Amber is a registered Behavior Therapist for children with Autism. She has two boys and a baby girl and lives in Irmo with her husband, Derek.
“I love children and watching them learn through play and exploration. As a parent I know how difficult it is to be a mom and welcome the chances I have in my EI position to help other moms and dads.”
Ashley Barnhill
Early Interventionist
Midlands Office
My name is Ashley Barnhill, and I was born in Omaha, Nebraska. My family and I moved to Columbia, SC when I was three years old. I have been in Columbia ever since. I have an Associate degree of Early Care and Education and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education studies. I loved attending the night program at Columbia College. I really enjoyed the professors, small class size, and one on one instruction.
I have worked with children for seven years. I really enjoy working with babies. I love watching the children’s developmental milestones get achieved. I fell in love with working with children with special needs because my mother taught school for many years, and she just retired. Also, I served with my church in the special needs ministry.
I always knew I wanted to work with children but never knew the capacity until I found out about Early Intervention. I know this is where I belong because it so easily mixes my early childhood background and my special needs background.
“I always knew I wanted to work with children but never knew the capacity until I found out about Early Intervention. I know this is where I belong because it so easily mixes my early childhood background and my special needs background.”
Brittany Hill
Service Coordinator
Midlands Office
My name is Brittany Hill and I am from Edgemoor SC. I am a graduate of Winthrop University and Liberty University where I earned a bachelor’s degree in Family and Consumer Science and a Master’s degree in Crisis intervention and Responses. I have one daughter name Mia and a Rottweiler name Zeke. I begin my journey as an Early Interventionist right after graduating from Winthrop and took a break to follow my husband who is now retired Army. I am happy to be back fulfilling my passion and helping children with special needs and their families.
Cassidy Huggins-Scott
Early Interventionist
Midlands Office
My Name is Cassidy Huggins-Scott. I am from Lexington, SC. I’m currently living in Saluda, SC with my husband and 2-year-old daughter. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in psychology with a minor in education from the University of South Carolina. I started my career as an EMT and a NICU Technician but realized, after having a friend in the field, that I wanted to be an Early Interventionist. I love working one on one with families and children and I am excited to continue my career with Carolina Behavior and Beyond!
“I love having the opportunity to be a part of a team that gives each child in our path the best chance for success.”
Hanna Lei Atterson
Early Interventionist
Midlands Office
My name is Hanna Lei Atterson. I am originally from Honolulu, Hawaii and have moved to Chapin, SC back in 2017 with my husband and our dog. I have graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a focus in child and youth development. I have a passion for painting and long for adventures/road-trips with family and friends. Working with children has brought much joy to my life for the past eight years. Coming from a Montessori school classroom, it has really made me appreciate being able to work with children and their families on a one-on-one basis through early intervention. I would be honored and blessed to work with you and your family.
Hannah Watkins
Trainer/Early Interventionist
Midlands Office
My passion for working with children with special needs began in high school after I interned with a Speech Therapist my senior year. After earning my Bachelor’s Degree from the University of South Carolina, I began working as a Teacher’s Assistant in a Kindergarten Special Education classroom. These experiences taught me the importance of Early Intervention services and I am so excited to begin a career where I have the privilege of being a part of not only the child’s life, but the families’ journey as well.
“What I love most about being an EI is providing the knowledge & resources that families need in order to empower them to advocate for their child”
Jessica Culp
Early Interventionist
Midlands Office
My name is Jessica Culp and I grew up around Pittsburgh, PA. I graduated from Indiana University of PA in 2016 with a BSED and dual-certification in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. Additionally, I recently graduated with a M.Ed. in Instructional Design from Western Governors University. I previously taught in the public school setting as a special education teacher; teaching various grade levels K-5. Ever since I was a young child, I always imagined myself working with children when I was an adult. Growing up with a brother with significant hearing loss made my decision that much easier. I chose to pursue the special education part of my degree to help children reach their full potential and proper. However, in 2019 I had my first baby and shortly after he was 6 months old, my husband and I soon realized that he had a lot of medical needs and developmental delays. After having Beckham, I realized that early intervention is something I am passionate about and something that I have personally gone through as a parent.
Kelly Dunphy
Early Interventionist
Midlands Office
My name is Kelly Dunphy, and I am from Florence, SC. I am a graduate of the University of South Carolina. During my time there, I worked as a personal care aid for a child with special needs and his family. I always knew I wanted to work with children in some way since high school. It was not until I began working as a caregiver did I learn how much I wanted to continue to have the opportunity to work with individuals with special needs. I love working with children and their families to help their child to develop to their full potential, which led me to Carolina Behavior and Beyond!
I love being an EI because of the opportunity I’m given to make a the long lasting impact on these children and their families. I have always been a people person, and love the personal connections I am able to make through this job!
Megan Chalmers
Intake Coordinator/Early Interventionist
Midlands Office
My name is Megan Chalmers and I was raised in Greenwood, SC. After graduating from the University of South Carolina with a degree in psychology, I worked 2 years as an ABA therapist for children with Autism and have now been an Early Interventionist for almost 3 years. I truly believe being an EI is the most rewarding and fulfilling career! Having the honor to watch children grow and reach their full potential is nothing short of a blessing. I strive to be a positive light for every family I serve and know, without a doubt, that is the best job in the world.
“I love children and watching them learn through play and exploration. As a parent I know how difficult it is to be a mom and welcome the chances I have in my EI position to help other moms and dads.”
Melissa Newberry
Early Interventionist
Midlands Office
“Hi! My name is Melissa Newberry, and I am from San Antonio, Texas. I recently graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. I fell in love with the state of South Carolina and the University when I was just 11 years old while on a road trip. When it was time for myself to apply to college, the only option that stood out to me was USC and I am so glad I stuck to my gut. Along with knowing where I wanted to advance my education, I also knew what I wanted to pursue a career in. I have always had a passion for working with kids and I realized there are so many pathways to work with children and make a positive impact on their lives. I am so excited to be able to work with families and children to make a positive impact all around!”
Nikki Ballinger
Early Interventionist
Midlands Office
My name is Nikki Ballinger, and I was born in Torrance, California. My family and I moved to Chapin, SC just a few months ago. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor in Social Work. My intentions were directed towards forensics and criminal profiling, but began work as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and fell in love with helping children thru their struggles.
I have worked with children for several years. I fell in love with working with children with special needs when my son was diagnosed with Autism. Researching and helping other parents eventually led me to public speaking and community involvement, bringing compassion and support to parents across the US.
I learned about Carolina Behavior and Beyond from a parent who spoke very highly of the founder and her team. I am so excited to be a part of something so great!
Olivia Robbins
Early Interventionist
Midlands Office
Hello, my name is Olivia Robbins! I am an Ohio native but moved to Columbia, SC, after I graduated from college because of my love for warmer weather. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Kent State University in 2022. I have always been interested in working for an organization where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals. For as long as I can remember I have also had an outstanding passion to work with children. When I learned more about early intervention, I soon realized that I could combine my interest in creating an impact in individuals’ lives and my passion to work with children. I am very excited to be beginning my career at Carolina Behavior and Beyond and look forward to continuing to learn and grow from early intervention!
Patt Kleckley
Administrative Coordinator
Midlands Office
Patt Kleckley is a native of Morrisville, NY but calls South Carolina home after relocating years ago. Patt is a graduate of Western Kentucky University where she received her degree in Art Education. Upon graduating, she followed her heart to the public sector and was employed as a local middle school art teacher for over thirty years. She was twice chosen as Northside Middle School Teacher of the Year and was also honored as Lexington Two District Teacher of the Year in 2008.
Mrs. Kleckley is an avid artist and loves to create-In her spare time, Patt enjoys vacationing with her family, traveling, and spending time relaxing on her porch.
“I believe in the mission of Carolina Behavior & Beyond. As the mom of an adult son with special needs, I know what a positive impact early intervention can have on both the child and their family. Back in the 1980’s when Reuben was first diagnosed, the lack of services we experienced left us as parents feeling isolated and disheartened. I am so grateful to be a part of a team that provides a positive outlook with hope and support for the future of families.”
Reuben Kleckley
Happiness Coordinator
Reuben was chosen to fulfil the role of Happiness Coordinator at Carolina Behavior & Beyond because of his uncanny ability to spread joy wherever he goes. His infectious laugh echoes throughout the office and is sure to lighten the stress and brighten the darkest day.
Baseball, NFL, and of course cheering on the Gamecocks are just a few of his favorite things, along with Bluegrass Music, Alan Jackson and attending Mt. Horeb United Methodist Church.
“Ha ha - got you!”
Robin Lang
Early Interventionist
Midlands Office
Hi! I’m Robin Lang. I live in Lexington, SC with my family. I graduated from The University of SC with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. My first job out of college was as an advocate for people with disabilities. It was here that I first learned how important it is to not only advocate for others, but to also help them in being able to advocate for themselves.
After I became a Mother, I started teaching preschool and did so for 9 years. One of my favorite things is watching children learn and grow and I just love being a part of that.
I then spent 4 years working with elementary school students in a specialized autism support program. Witnessing these children grow and not only achieve success, but also thrive was such an awesome experience.
I truly feel that my past vocations and many of my experiences have pointed me in this direction and I’m so excited and grateful to be a part of the Carolina Behavior & Beyond team.
As an Early Interventionist I have the opportunity and privilege to make a difference in the lives of families while getting to experience the joy of seeing children grow and blossom.
As an early interventionist I have the opportunity and privilege to make a difference in the lives of families while getting to experience the joy of seeing children grow and blossom.
Sara Mills
Early Interventionist
Midlands Office
As a teenager, I was lucky to babysit a young boy with Down Syndrome and felt I had a special place in my heart for children with special needs. After graduating from College of Charleston in 2009, I began working in a group home and fell in love with ABA therapy, and all it had to offer kids with Autism. I worked in home settings as both a lead therapist and consultant, working towards my BC/ABA certification. After moving to Florida in 2015, I worked in clinical settings doing one on one behavior therapy. Most recently I was a paraprofessional with the Els Center for Excellence, founded by professional golfer Ernie Els. I am excited to be back home in South Carolina and working with the staff of Carolina Behavior &Beyond to see firsthand how early intervention makes an impact on young children!
“Not only do we have the opportunity to work with other professionals, but we become part of the family. Working together as a team gives our families the knowledge they need to help our kiddos reach their goals.”
Felicity Collum
Intern
Midlands Office
Brianna Kosch
Early Interventionist
Midlands Office
My name is Brianna (Bri) Kosch! I graduated in 2020 from Midlands Technical College with an Applied Associates of Science in Early Care and Education. I then transferred to Columbia College and received a Bachelor of Arts in Human Development and Family Studies with a Minor in Psychology. I first learned about Early Intervention when I completed EI fieldwork through the education program at Midlands Tech. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be an Early Interventionist at Carolina Behavior and Beyond because I can combine my love for education and child development in a way that helps others. I am so excited to utilize my passion and knowledge to serve and provide positive experiences for children and their families!
Piedmont Office
Jennifer Williams
Early Intervention Supervisor
Piedmont
Jennifer started working with Carolina Behavior & Beyond in December of 2016. Within this short time frame, she knows this is where she should be. As an Early Interventionist (EI), she’s able to work with a variety of children with disabilities. Jennifer is eager to learn everything she can as an EI. She has a Masters of Science in Psychology with a specialization in General Psychology. She’s also a Registered Behavior Technician.
“Working with children has always been a passion of mine. When I started working at a head start program in 2007, my love for working with special needs children grew. After working there for seven years, I transitioned to working with children with Autism. I did Applied Behavior Analysis Therapy (ABA) for over three years with children ages three to seven.”
Crystal Langford
Early Interventionist
Piedmont
My name is Crystal Langford. I am a native of Edgefield County SC. I am a graduate of Ashford University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. It wasn’t until I had 3 children of my own that I discovered a passion to help children learn and develop. As a Head Start teacher, I saw firsthand how early intervention services impacted the lives of my students and their families in such a positive way. Becoming an EI will allow me to have a front row seat to watch the children and families that I serve thrive and grow.
“I love being an EI because it is the most rewarding job that I’ve ever had outside of being a mother to my own children”
Regina Simpkins
Intake Coordinator/Early Interventionist
Piedmont
Being the mother of a special needs child, a community activist and educator, I made it my mission to build bridges between ‘typical’ families and those like my own. My passion and purpose in life is to reach families and help them achieve goals they may not have believed possible. I thank Carolina Behavior & Beyond for giving me the opportunity to join their team and look forward to working with some of the amazing children they serve.”
Regina is a wife and the mother of two children and calls Johnston, SC her home. She has been working in the special education field for three years and as an educator for ten. She has been living it first-hand since her daughter was born seventeen years ago with a genetic disorder.
“Having a job where I can work with children with special needs is incredibly fulfilling. I love seeing the light bulb come on in a child’s eyes when they understand what you have been teaching them.”
Lauri Rooney
Early Interventionist
Piedmont
Low Country Office
Dorthy Dukes
Early Interventionist
Low Country
Dorthy is a native of Allendale, SC and a graduate of Cambridge College with a Master’s degree in Education. She also attended Claflin University and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education. Dorthy has provided families with Early Education services for over ten years in Allendale & Barnwell counties.
“Sixteen years ago, I became a special needs parent. Becoming a special needs family was and still is an emotional and physical roller-coaster. As a mother, each and every morning, I wonder what this day will bring. We live the day to day challenges of being a special needs family. For example, multiple appointments in one day, not having a clear understanding of why/how, and creating a healthy support system. Through my career in Early Intervention I hope that just maybe, my testimony will help others.
Randi Williams
Early Interventionist
Low Country
My name is Randi Williams and I was raised in Bamberg, SC. I am a graduate of Voorhees College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development. I’ve always had a love for children and it grew stronger once I became a teacher at Head Start. It would “melt my heart” the way the children would light up once they saw my face. That is when I knew that working with children was the career for me. While watching an EI from Carolina Behavior & Beyond as she worked with one of the pre-schoolers in my class, I realized how important Early Intervention Services are. I’m so grateful for this opportunity to be an Early Interventionist because it offers me the opportunity to work closely with children and continue to help them “shine their light.
Upstate Office
Laura Arrieta
Early Interventionist
Upstate Office
Laura is a graduate of South University of Columbia, SC with a degree in Health Science. After working with special needs children at her church, Laura decided to start working with children with Autism. She worked in applied behavioral analysis with autistic children for nearly two years. Laura specializes in Autism and children with difficult behavior issues.
Being an EI is an enormous calling and such a blessing in my life. I love coming alongside families in their time of need and helping them gain the tools they need to see their children develop and thrive. Building relationships with families and seeing kids learn new skills every day is incredibly rewarding.