Implementing or refining an integrative biomedical treatment program is a powerful and defining move toward recovery. Over the last decade researchers and clinicians associated with ARI have collaborated to make sense of the complex biochemistry and therapeutic options to offer parents treatment options and a real chance at recovery. This talk by Dr. Levinson will help frame the picture that will be painted by our esteemed lecturers and give you some of the tools you will need to be able to successfully implement your program when you get home.

Do you or does someone you care about have sensory processing challenges? This session will demystify those sensory issues and provide you with practical solutions for overcoming sensitivities to noise, touch, movement, visuals, taste, and smell that can interfere with function at home, at school, and in the community. Sensory diet strategies, environment accommodations, and where to get the best help will also be discussed.

This session will provide an overview of current diagnostic criteria for receiving a diagnosis of a Pervasive Developmental Disorder as outlined by the DMV-IV-TR (APA, 2000). A brief overview of current diagnostic instruments, qualified professionals, why receive a diagnosis, and the difference between a medical diagnosis and an educational eligibility will be provided. Also discussed will be how an initial diagnosis and re-evaluations can be used to track progress and skills to be targeted for intervention.

"Let food be your medicine and medicine be your food." In the words of Hippocrates, we cannot underestimate the importance of the Right Diet to support and promote the health and development, both physically and neurologically, of children on the spectrum.

Whether you go to see your regular pediatrician, a specialist in autism or an integrative physician, you should know what questions to ask and why they may ask certain questions. Using a detailed questionnaire may help you and your practitioner to better understand the immune, gut, and mitochondrial issues that may be affecting your child. This lecture will help you to discover how to get the most information and support for all of your time, money and effort.

After years of treating patients and analyzing scientific data, prominent Harvard researcher and clinician Dr. Martha Herbert offers a revolutionary new view of autism and a transformative strategy for dealing with it. Autism is not a hardwired impairment programmed into a child's genes and destined to remain fixed forever, as we're often told. Instead, it is the result of a cascade of events, many seemingly minor: perhaps a genetic mutation, some toxic exposures, a stressful birth, a vitamin deficiency, and a series of infections. And while other doctors may dismiss your child's physical symptoms—the diarrhea, anxiety, sensory overload, sleeplessness, immune challenges, and seizures—as coincidental or irrelevant, Dr. Herbert sees them as vital clues to what the underlying problems are, and how to help.

Autism is complex. While keeping their eyes on the big picture for the entire family, parents need to recognize their child's medical issues, and simultaneously solicit appropriate referrals for diagnosis and other therapies, such as ABA, speech, and OT. Dr. Berger will provide an appropriate plan. Dr. Berger is a Board-Certified

The need to implement a therapeutic plan quickly is often at odds with the slow pace of research needed to identify which options are truly effective. At the same time, parents are flooded with reports of interventions that worked 'miracles" for someone else, but have limited safety and efficacy data to support them. How do you separate the (gluten free?) wheat from the chaff? We will explore the facts about HBOT, special diets, vaccines and other popular options.

For most children diagnosed with ASD, their challenges will be lifelong. This presentation will provide an overview of the many resources and tool kits that are available through the Autism Speaks website as well as the presenter's experience as a parent of a young man with autism.

Of the many symptoms in ASD, the following are very common: communication delays, sensory issues, hyperactivity, inattention, anxiety, OCD symptoms, repetitive behaviors, poor sleep, moodiness, aggression, picky eating, and digestive problems. Parents and professionals often ask the same questions: What nutrients and diets should be tried first and which ones are most likely to help specific symptoms? This session will provide suggestions for "Quick Start" supplements (those with most overall benefit) as well as examples of symptom-specific treatments.

Parent perspectives on starting and sustaining treatment in the real world; when to consult professionals while serving as your child's best advocate. Recognize when changes may be needed—and never give up!

Your child is learning every day from all of your interactions. This can be very comforting- or an exhausting realization, depending on the day. The more effectively we parent, the easier our daily lives will be with our children. In this presentation, we'll explore ways to: Make parenting easier by teaching a few core skills; take the mystery out of teaching and let go of fears about "instruction"; recognize how everyday moments are learning opportunities; create a support team for you and your child; rediscover the power of laughter, fun and connecting with your child; learn strategies for staying in control that benefit the whole family.

Your child might be entitled to better services than you realize. Learn the ropes—how does the system work? What should a preschooler's education plan look like? How do you include diet/ABA/OT/ST, etc. in your child's education plan?

Your child might be entitled to more than you realize. Learn the ropes—how does the system work? Your child has the right to incorporate behavioral, nutritional, and medical treatment at school. IEP tips will be included.

This talk covers the basic dietary needs of young children and offers tips for dealing with the hurdles families must face when it comes to food. What does comprehensive meal planning look like? How can a plan help organize a household that's decided on a dietary intervention? What does a school snack and lunch plan look like? How do you deal with family and community gatherings? How can you travel or vacation most easily? Ms. Barnhill will cover all of the practical tips that can make sense of what might seem the overwhelming aspects of nutritional intervention.