Theodore Tomeny

Dr. Theodore Tomeny serves as Associate Professor of Psychology and Director of Undergraduate Studies at the University of Alabama, with affiliations spanning the Center for Innovative Research in Autism, Center for Youth Development and Intervention, and Alabama Research Institute on Aging. His work bridges clinical practice and academic research within the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) community.

Dr. Tomeny earned his Ph.D. from The University of Southern Mississippi followed by a pre-doctoral internship specializing in autism at Indiana University School of Medicine. His educational background established the foundation for his dual focus on clinical application and research innovation in developmental disabilities.

His research program centers on autism spectrum disorder and intellectual developmental disabilities across the lifespan, with particular emphasis on family dynamics, sibling relationships, and long-term care planning for aging families. He investigates quality-of-life factors, cross-neurotype interactions, stakeholder perceptions of ASD, and systemic barriers faced by rural and underserved populations. Current projects examine undergraduate attitudes toward autistic peers, social interaction experiences of autistic adults, and rural caregivers' knowledge of autism.

Analysis of Dr. Tomeny's publication trajectory reveals consistent thematic focus on family systems surrounding ASD, with increasing attention to lifespan transitions and rural healthcare disparities. His work demonstrates methodological diversity spanning systematic reviews, mixed-methods studies, and naturalistic interventions, all oriented toward improving service delivery and family outcomes.

Dr. Tomeny mentors a dynamic research team within the Research on Autism and Families (RAF) Lab, supervising graduate students including Allison Birnschein, Rachel Harmon, Jong-Woo Suh, and Olivia Ward alongside undergraduates like Amaya McClain. His trainees have secured prestigious positions at institutions including Indiana University School of Medicine, Children's Hospital Colorado, and Cook Children's Medical Center.

The RAF Lab operates as a multidisciplinary hub conducting eight active research initiatives including long-term care planning for autistic adults, social interaction studies for autistic adults, and investigations into rural teachers' knowledge of autism. The lab maintains strong clinical ties with the University of Alabama ASD Clinic and UA-ACTS program to ensure research translation into practice.