Shelley McLaughlin
Shelley McLaughlin is an accomplished Autism Consultant and the Founder and Senior Consultant of Different Beat Consultants, LLC, specializing in epigenetic expressions in Autism. In 2015, she launched her own consulting firm to provide evidence-based strategies, including nutritional interventions, to support individuals with autism and their families. Shelley's career spans nonprofit leadership, product development with the government, clinical trial design, and the founding of Autism Speaks, where she led grassroots initiatives that contributed to the passage of nine federal laws. Her work is rooted in service to others, and she has established an international nonprofit partnership serving the UK, U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Her professional path was shaped by her time at Hollins University, where she honed her leadership skills and built an organic network of women collaborators. Shelley’s advocacy and programmatic expertise are informed by her personal journey as a mother to a 29-year-old son with autism, who inspired her lifelong commitment to the field. She combines her scientific knowledge, practical experience, and dedication to advocacy to develop systems that address autism through biomedical, nutritional, and behavioral approaches.
Outside of her professional work, Shelley enjoys reading scripture, painting, and continuously learning new skills. She is passionate about building a self-sustainable homestead for her children and exploring farming practices. Above all, she views being a mother as her greatest achievement, and every endeavor she pursues is guided by a desire to create a better life for her family while empowering the autism community through advocacy, research, and compassionate support.
• Mount Holyoke College - BA
• Baton Rouge Top 40 Under 40 (2007)
• Person of the Year, Spectrum Publications (2005)
• Top 10 Faces of Autism, Spectrum Publications (2006)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my faith in God. Before making any decision or taking action, I seek His wisdom and guidance through prayer, allowing my faith to shape my approach and inform the choices I make professionally and personally.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering this industry to learn from those who have come before them, identify a specific area within the autism spectrum that resonates with their interests, and focus on developing expertise in that area. By honing your skills, you can carve out a meaningful niche and make a lasting impact in the community you serve.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are service to others, honesty, integrity, and ensuring that people feel respected and valued.
Locations
Different Beat Consultants, LLC
Maryville, TN 37803