County resource guide
Boone County, Missouri
Local providers, school contacts, and support services for autism families in Boone County. Missouri statewide resources also apply.
Local providers
5 listedDiagnostic clinics
Formal autism evaluations by developmental pediatricians, psychologists, or neuropsychologists.
Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders — University of Missouri
Columbia · serves multiple counties
One of the most comprehensive autism centers in the Midwest, housed at the University of Missouri in Columbia. Offers multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluations, behavioral health, speech-language therapy, OT, and telehealth services. Nationally recognized research center with a lifespan approach from toddlers through adults. A flagship resource for mid-Missouri families.
Early Intervention (0–3)
Free services for children under 3 under IDEA Part C.
Columbia · multi-county
MU Thompson Center — Early Intervention Services
Early intervention evaluations and services for children birth to age 3 through Missouri's First Steps program, coordinated at the Thompson Center. Covers developmental screening, speech, OT, and family support planning for Boone County and surrounding mid-Missouri counties.
Missouri First Steps partner. Referrals through your pediatrician or call the Thompson Center directly.
ABA therapy
Applied Behavior Analysis therapy — typically requires insurance authorization.
Columbia
Crossroads Pediatric Therapy — Columbia
BCBA-supervised ABA therapy in Boone County for children with autism and developmental differences. Center-based model with naturalistic teaching environments. Works alongside Thompson Center for coordinated care in the Columbia area.
Missouri commercial insurance ABA mandate applies.
Parent & family support
Parent groups, sibling programs, and family peer support.
Columbia · multi-county
Autism Society of Missouri — Mid-Missouri Chapter
Support groups, community events, and resource navigation for Boone County families. Coordinates with Thompson Center and local schools to connect families across mid-Missouri.
Advocacy & legal
Legal advocates, special education advocates, and disability rights organizations.
Columbia · multi-county
MPACT — Missouri Parents Act (Mid-Missouri)
Missouri's federally funded Parent Training and Information Center, serving Boone County and mid-Missouri families. Free IEP advocacy training, one-on-one support, and special education rights information. Bilingual services available.
FREE. Federally funded PTI. Call before any IEP meeting or dispute.
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See all Missouri resources
Waivers, PTI centers, and state programs apply to all families in Missouri.
Missouri state guide →