Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment

22/07/2025

22/07/2025

Join us for the next IDEA monthly webinar! Dr. Andy Shih, Chief Science Officer at Autism Speaks, will explore the emerging connection between autism and dementia.

📅 Wednesday, July 30, 2025
⏰ 10:00–11:00am CST
📍 Zoom | bit.ly/IDEAZoomLink
No registration required.

IDEA is a community of autism clinicians focused on sharing practical tools, strategies, and real-world expertise. Want to learn more or invite a colleague to join? Visit: https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/training/idea/

22/07/2025

The Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment at the University of Missouri is proud to announce the addition of two distinguished professionals to its clinical and research teams.

Learn more about their expertise and the impact they’ll bring to our mission in the July newsletter — it’s FREE to subscribe!
📬 https://mailchi.mp/thompsoncenter/september-8266601

18/07/2025

We’re thrilled to share the latest video from the incredible Thompson Foundation for Autism and Neurodevelopment showcasing the inspiring vision for our new building! Their unwavering support and forward-thinking leadership continue to make a lasting impact.🙌💙

17/07/2025

On Tuesday, we celebrated our incredible Psychologists and psychologist trainees!

Their expertise, training, and commitment to evidence-based care help guide patients and families with the support they need.
We’re so grateful for all they do — Happy Psychologist Appreciation Day! 🧠

15/07/2025

Whether you're a young adult with autism or a parent supporting one, now is the time to build real-world skills and prepare for independent living!

STRIVE is a post-secondary program at the University of Missouri for 18–30-year-olds with autism. Over two semesters, participants build skills for work and daily life through:

✅ Direct instruction from Thompson Center staff
✅ Paid work experience opportunities
✅ Mentorship and coached feedback
✅ A supportive, inclusive environment

📍 Scholarships and housing support available
📅 Weekly commitment: 15–25 hours | Starts August 26th

To join, participants must:
• Have an autism diagnosis (or similar)
• Have an IQ of 85 or higher
• Be out of high school
• Be motivated to work and live independently

📲 Apply now at: www.thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/strive
📧 Questions? Email strive@missouri.edu or call 573-882-2077

STRIVE Self-Determined Transition Readiness Through Individual Vocational Experiences (STRIVE) STRIVE is an innovative post-secondary education and independence program at the University of Missouri tailored specifically for 18-to-30-year-olds with autism orContinue reading "STRIVE"

14/07/2025

Researchers in the MU Dept. of Occupational Therapy are seeking youth ages 12-18 with autism spectrum disorder who are enrolled in middle or high school or homeschooled for a research study. Participants will engage in a one-time, in-person assessment session that lasts approximately 90 to 120 minutes. Participants will be asked to answer questionnaires and perform simple activities that involve higher level cognitive processes like planning, organization, and managing emotions during daily activities. Participation is voluntary, and participants can withdraw their consent at any time without penalty. Participants will be compensated $50 for their time. Principal Investigator: Dr. Melanie Tkach at melanie.tkach@health.missouri.edu or 573-882-0992.

11/07/2025

We're hosting our first Caregiver Connections!

This monthly group offers a supportive space to connect, share, and find community with others who understand your journey. Together, we’ll explore strategies, offer support, and empower advocacy.

📅 Monday, July 28th from 5:30–7:00 PM at the Thompson Center. Dinner Provided!

To help everyone get the most out of this group, we kindly ask that only adults attend.

Sign up here ➡️ https://missouri.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_57rhZ85Av30poLI or scan the QR code below. We hope to see you there!

10/07/2025

Have you checked out our Spring 2025 Newsletter yet?

We’re tackling an important topic: Autism & Vaccines – Separating Fact from Fiction.

Let’s clear up the myths with science-backed insights.
📖 Read it here:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2025-spring-research-newsletter.pdf

09/07/2025

🌟 Support Your Child’s Voice with SGD Success at Home!

Do you have a child who uses a speech-generating device (SGD)? Join our FREE online training series starting TOMORROW at 12:00 p.m. CST!

🧠 Learn practical strategies
💬 Support communication growth
🏡 Use SGDs effectively at home and in the community

🗓️ Starts TOMORROW – don’t miss it!
🔗 Register now: https://umsystem.zoom.us/meeting/register/otS59TN2QVez634M4nVwCQ

08/07/2025

🚨 Exciting News from the COMO Business Times and Thompson Center!
We’re thrilled to share coverage of our brand-new facility with expanded services, enhanced facility features, and space to serve more families than ever before.
📅 Official opening set for March 2026!
🔗 Dive into the full story: https://comobusinesstimes.com/2025/07/07/doubling-its-capacity-for-care-thompson-center-for-autism-and-neurodevelopment/

Columbia’s Thompson Center expands efforts to improve diagnosis, care, and support for neurodivergent individuals and families.

08/07/2025

🗓️ The countdown is on to our 20th Annual Autism Conference. Have you registered yet? Secure your spot now. You don't want to miss these keynotes.
🔗 Register now: https://tcautismconf.com/