About Us
Our Story
Blue Ridge Connections ABA was founded by three former coworkers who shared more than just a workplace, we shared a vision for what ABA services could and should be.
After years of working in the field, we’ve seen firsthand the impact that compassionate, individualized care can have on children and families. We’ve also seen the challenges: systems that didn’t always put people first, clinicians stretched thin, and families who deserved more support, transparency, and collaboration. Those experiences sparked countless conversations and eventually, a bold decision.
In December 2025, Blue Ridge Connections ABA was born. An ABA company focused on prioritizing people first and building stronger connections within our community.
Rooted in evidence-based practice and guided by empathy, our company was created to prioritize excellent care, ethical treatment, and meaningful relationships. We believe that progress happens when families, clinicians, and clients feel heard, respected, and supported every step of the way.
As former coworkers turned co-founders, our shared history allows us to work seamlessly as a team, grounded in trust and aligned values. Today, that same teamwork extends to our clients, families, and staff.
Blue Ridge Connections ABA is more than a business. It’s a commitment to the people we serve, the professionals who support them, and the community we’re proud to be part of. A community that’s built through meaningful relationships, one connection at a time.
Our Staff
Marisa Griswold, MA, BCBA
Co-Founder
Marisa Griswold began her career in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in 2010, driven by a deep passion for working with children and supporting families. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Converse College in 2010 and completed her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis at the Florida Institute of Technology in 2015. She became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2016 and has since built a strong foundation of clinical leadership and hands-on experience.
Marisa previously served as a Clinical Director for an autism services provider in the Upstate, where she provided clinical oversight, mentored clinicians, and supported program development. That experience helped shape her vision for creating a company centered on quality care, ethical practice, and meaningful collaboration.
As Co-Founder of Blue Ridge Connections ABA, Marisa is excited to bring that vision to life. She is deeply committed to helping children reach their full potential while building strong, trusting partnerships with families. Seeing children make progress and empowering families throughout their journey continues to be the most rewarding part of her work.
Outside of the clinical role, Marisa enjoys spending time with her family of four. She and her husband have two daughters, and together they love hiking and enjoying the outdoors. These experiences help keep her grounded and reflect the same values of connection and growth that guide her professional life.
Maria Paniagua, MS, BCBA
Co-Founder
Maria Paniagua was born and raised in Mexico and moved to the United States at age 15 in 2010. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Experimental Psychology from the University of South Carolina Upstate and later completed a Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Applied Behavior Analysis from Capella University.
Maria began working in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis in 2015, where she discovered her passion for supporting individuals with autism and their families. She became a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) in 2019 and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2021.
Maria has four years of experience serving as a Clinical Director for an autism service provider in Upstate, providing clinical oversight and developing individualized, evidence-based treatment plans. Maria currently serves clients in the Greenville, South Carolina community and hopes to further her professional journey by pursuing a PhD and contributing to diagnostic and assessment efforts for children with autism.
Outside of her professional role, Maria is a dedicated wife and proud mother to her two daughters. She enjoys spending time with her family, visiting the beach, painting, and reading. Maria is passionate about her work and believes in continued advocacy, awareness, and support for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.
Lee Talbott
Co-Founder
Originally from Virginia, Lee Talbott earned his Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Virginia Tech, graduating in 2021. After graduating, he began his career in Applied Behavior Analysis as a Registered Behavior Technician, gaining his first two years of ABA experience before relocating to South Carolina.
Once living in South Carolina, Lee continued to follow his passion for ABA and worked an additional year as an RBT before serving as the Chief Talent Officer for an autism service provider in the Upstate for two years. As a Chief Talent Officer, Lee focused on building supportive teams, improving systems for communication, strengthening company culture, and developing effective hiring and retention strategies.
As a co-founder, Lee’s goals for Blue Ridge Connections ABA focus on creating an ethical, people-first organization that prioritizes excellent, individualized care for clients while also supporting and empowering staff. He is deeply committed to building a positive workplace culture, investing in ongoing professional development, and ensuring that clinicians have the resources and support they need to succeed. Lee is passionate about expanding access to compassionate, evidence-based ABA services and helping families feel genuinely supported throughout their journey.
Outside of work, Lee values maintaining a balanced and active lifestyle. He enjoys spending his free time outdoors and exploring new environments, especially anywhere he can hike or play golf. Lee also has a strong interest in music and is continually learning to play the guitar and piano. These hobbies allow him to recharge, stay creative, and bring a well-rounded perspective to both his personal life and professional work.