​Laura Barnes with UPC Heartland provided the following resources for diagnostic services for Autism.
 
“The resources that I’m most familiar with are typically centered around autism, so I hope this is still helpful! The Thompson Center is able to do more complex evaluations so that is usually where I start but I know the waitlist is lengthy and that can be a barrier.
 
If the family is able to travel to KC or STL, that opens up a few more options. These are a few that families have given me good feedback on, but I’m sure there are more out there.
 
The people listed as “STAT providers” are the pediatricians who are qualified to provide the Autism screening and diagnosis with the kids who present will clear signs. For the kids who present with a more complicated array of symptoms, they may still need to refer out for a more comprehensive evaluation, but it is a good starting point.
 
Columbia:
  • Brett Moore: MU South Providence Peds- 573-882-4730; STAT provider
    • LOVE Dr. Moore! He has a son with autism and is a great resource for families who may have questions or concerns.
  • Alexandra James: MU South Providence Peds- 573-882-4730; STAT provider
    • I’ve heard great things about her but haven’t had too much personal experience with her.
  • Dean Lasseter: MU South Providence Peds- 573-882-4730
    • Also works at the Thompson Center and I’m not sure he will actually provide an assessment or diagnosis but he is a great pediatrician and has a lot of experience working with kids with autism or other developmental delays.
  • John Wilson: 573-443-0937; STAT provider
    • CoMo Cubs pediatrics
  • Kristin Sohl:
    • She is absolutely a gem with an immense wealth of knowledge and we are so lucky to have her in Columbia! Her passion for helping families is contagious and I just adore her. She is the leader of the ECHO Autism program and I know she still sees some clients, but not sure whether she is accepting new patients. If anyone has an opportunity to get in with her, they will not regret it.
 
Jeff City: