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We’re here to help.

Our compassionate and knowledgeable team is here to address your unique needs and provide the best possible care for your child’s neurodevelopmental journey.

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Teaching for a stronger community.

We are here to equip learners with the essentials skills needed to create positive change in the lives of people with developmental differences.

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Researching for a better tomorrow.

Our goal is to unlock discoveries that will revolutionize the lives of individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental diagnoses.

Learn more

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We’re here to help.

Our compassionate and knowledgeable team is here to address your unique needs and provide the best possible care for your child’s neurodevelopmental journey.

Learn more

Teaching for a stronger community.

We are here to equip learners with the essentials skills needed to create positive change in the lives of people with developmental differences.

Learn more

Researching for a better tomorrow.

Our goal is to unlock discoveries that will revolutionize the lives of individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental diagnoses.

Learn more

Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment

205 Portland Street, Columbia, MO 65211

573-884-6052

May 5, 2021

Nursing Spotlight: Meet Shawna Shelton

By Emily Morrison
a picture of shawna shelton

What’s your name?
Shawna Shelton

Where did you grow up?
Missouri most of my life

What is your position at the Thompson Center?
Nurse Clinician

How long have you worked at the Thompson Center?
It will be 11 years in October 2021

What is your role at the Thompson Center?
I work as a Nurse Clinician with an amazing group of nurses and social workers to support the complex medical needs of our patients and make sure that our families are not only linked to services through the Thompson Center, but also throughout the state. I spend time daily educating families on diagnoses, medication, and various therapies/interventions.

What got you interested in autism research?
I honestly knew very little about autism when I started working here. My really good friend worked here at the time and told me about the job and I needed a change. I have learned so much.

What is your favorite thing about working at the Thompson Center?
The families for sure! Every positive message that I receive from a family report makes me know that what we do here is meaningful to their lives. I love being a very small part of their amazing journey and watching their children grow into wonderful people! The Thompson Center staff are the lucky ones to be invited in to be part of their team for their children!!