Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders

At the MU Thompson Center, education and training is a key part of our mission. Our goal is to teach others about the needs of persons with autism and other neurodevelpomental disorders and their families. In addition, we strive to help learners acquire skills needed to improve the outcomes of individuals with developmental differences. These skills include evidence-based assessment and intervention strategies, interdisciplinary approaches to service delivery, research methods, and policy development.

Training is provided in a broad variety of contexts to a wide group of interested persons, including:

• University of Missouri undergraduate and graduate students
• Pre-professional students, such as interns and residents in the health professions
• School and community professionals
• Individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders and their families
• Community organizations

Training for University of Missouri students range from a 4 hour observation period up to full year-long practica. Continuing education opportunities are available to individuals and family members, professionals, and community organizations on many subjects related to autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Many nationally recognized speakers visit the MU campus during the annual Thompson Center Autism Intervention Conference held each spring. More specific information about these opportunities are noted below.

• Training in Interdisciplinary Partnerships and Services (TIPS) for Kids
• Thompson Center conferences, workshops and other events
• More training resources

Featured Training

A free online training module on Understanding Autism in Young Children is now available

This module is an overview of the characteristics of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and the criteria used to diagnose children with ASD. Family members, childcare providers, school personnel and others who interact with young children are encouraged to take this training module to learn more about the signs of ASD. The is hosted on the University of Missouri Extension website. To view the training you will need to register for an Extension Passport and select the Understanding Autism course to view. There is no charge for the Passport or to view the training. Click here to get started. It is recommended that you bookmark the module once you have logged into to view it. To log back into the module once you have begun it, click here.

The Understanding Autism training was developed by the Mid-Missouri Rapid Response Initiative, which is funded by the Missouri Department of Mental Health Division of Developmental Disabilities. An online module was created from the training through a partnership with the Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelpomental Disorders, University of Missouri Extension, and the Division of Developmental Disabilities Office of Autism Services.

Advanced Autism Training Series (Tier III)

The Advanced Autism Training Series (Tier III) is designed to provide participants with hands-on experience and feedback for implementing strategies that are helpful for teaching individuals with autism spectrum disorders. In each session participants will apply basic knowledge by engaging in hands-on practice of key strategies.

These workshops are open to the public; however, participants must have pre-requisite knowledge as stated in the description of each workshop. Each workshop will consist of 15 minutes to review basic principles and the rest of the time will be spent applying the knowledge. (Participants of Tier I should have the pre-requisite knowledge to attend workshops, but are not eligible for certification unless they successfully completed Tier II.

Click here to download the menu of trainings available.