Philadelphia, PA

Presenter: Dr. James Neuenschwander, MD, FMAPS, President of MAPS

Title of Talk: What is Autism? The Biochemical and Physiologic Redefinition

Presenter: Vince Rinicella and Dana Johnson, PhD, MS, OTR/L

Title of Talk: The Mind Behind the Motor: Reshaping the Narrative on Nonspeaking Autism

Abstract:

For generations, nonspeaking individuals have often been defined by what could be observed rather than by what they may have understood. As our knowledge of motor differences, sensory regulation, and purposeful movement continues to evolve, so too does our understanding of communication, competence, and human potential.

In this transformative session, Dr. Dana Johnson, occupational therapist and co founder of the Spellers Method®, joins Vincent Rinicella, a nonspeaking autism advocate, writer, and featured communicator in the acclaimed documentary Spellers, to explore a new way of thinking about nonspeaking autism.

Drawing on decades of clinical experience, Dr Dana will share the principles behind motor-based communication and discuss how supporting motor planning and regulation can create new opportunities for meaningful communication. Vincent will offer a powerful firsthand perspective on living with nonspeaking autism, providing insights that challenge assumptions and deepen our understanding of what it means to communicate without reliable speech.

Together, they will examine the intersection of neuroscience, motor function, therapy, lived experience, and hope — inviting parents, therapists, educators, and physicians to reconsider long-held beliefs and engage in an important conversation about the future of communication.

Whether you are new to motor-based communication or have followed its evolution for years, this session will expand your perspective, inspire thoughtful discussion, and reinforce a simple but profound principle: every individual deserves the opportunity to be understood.

Presenter: Dr. John Gaitanis, MD, FMAPS

Title of Talk: Is This Still Autism? Rethinking Kanner’s Syndrome in the Modern Era

Abstract:

Autism is often discussed as though it is a single condition, yet no two children present exactly the same way. In this thought-provoking session, pediatric neurologist Dr. John Gaitanis invites parents to take a closer look at what we call "autism" and asks an important question: Are all children receiving the same diagnosis experiencing the same underlying condition?

Drawing on decades of clinical experience and emerging neurological research, Dr. Gaitanis explores how differences in specific brain regions and neurological pathways can contribute to the wide range of symptoms seen in children diagnosed with autism. He will discuss how seizures, abnormal brain activity, motor challenges, language regression, psychiatric symptoms, and other neurological conditions can overlap with—or sometimes even mimic—autism.

By moving beyond behavior alone and considering the brain's underlying function, parents will gain a better understanding of why individualized evaluation is so important and how identifying the neurological systems involved may open the door to more targeted, personalized approaches to care. This session offers a fresh perspective on autism that empowers families to ask deeper questions and better understand the unique needs of their child.

Presenter: Dr. Dan Rossignol, MD, FAAFP, FMAPS

Title of Talk: Treatable Medical Contributors in Autism: Mitochondrial Dysfunction, Cerebral Folate Deficiency, and Leucovorin

Abstract:

Autism affects communication, behavior, learning, and social interaction, but some individuals with autism also have underlying medical conditions that may influence development and daily function. This parent-friendly talk will focus on two important areas: mitochondrial dysfunction and cerebral folate deficiency. Mitochondria help produce the energy needed by the brain, muscles, gut, and immune system. When mitochondrial function is impaired, children may experience fatigue, regression, seizures, low muscle tone, gastrointestinal symptoms, sleep problems, or behavioral changes. Cerebral folate deficiency occurs when folate transport into the brain is reduced, even when blood folate levels are normal. Leucovorin, a form of folinic acid, may help bypass certain folate transport issues and has been studied in autism, particularly in children with folate receptor alpha autoantibodies. This talk will explain clinical clues, testing, treatment considerations, and how parents can discuss these options with their child’s clinician.

Presenter: Dr. Allison Golnik, MD, MPH

Title of Talk: Toxic Crosstalk: How Toxins and your Microbiome Interact

Abstract:

Not only is the microbiome located at the physical center of the body, but it is also central to our biochemical functioning. Environmental toxins can impair the microbiome by killing beneficial microbes, damaging barrier integrity, disrupting metabolic pathways, and promoting inflammation. By increasing awareness of these effects, we can take steps to reduce harmful exposures and support microbiome health. While toxins can negatively affect the microbiome, the microbiome also plays an important role in helping the body process and eliminate toxins. In this way, we can harness the microbiome as a key organ of biotransformation and detoxification.

Presenter: Dr. James Adams, PhD and Dr. Christina Flynn, PhD

Title of Talk: Hallmark Microbial Signatures of Autism: A Gut-Brain Axis Disorder

Abstract:

Could the gut provide important clues about what is happening in the brain? In this fascinating session, Drs. Flynn and Adams explore the growing body of research examining how compounds produced by bacteria and yeast in the gut may influence brain function, behavior, and development in some children with autism.

Parents will learn about emerging research showing that certain gut-derived metabolites are found at higher levels in many individuals with autism and how these compounds may affect important brain pathways involved in communication, sleep, mood, and behavior. The speakers will also introduce a promising new screening tool designed to identify these metabolites, helping clinicians better understand a child's unique biology and potentially guide more personalized treatment strategies.

While this research continues to evolve, it represents an exciting step toward moving beyond a one-size-fits-all diagnosis and understanding the biological factors that may contribute to a child's symptoms. Families will leave with a greater appreciation for the gut-brain connection and how advances in science are opening new possibilities for more individualized care.

Presenter: Joaquin Machado, Noxtak

Title of Talk: 4th Course Lecture: The Invisible Side of Your Home

Abstract:

Modern family life is built around phones, Wi-Fi, tablets, wearables, chargers, and connected appliances, yet most families have never been shown how to recognize the physical fields these devices produce or how exposure changes with source, distance, and time. This parent-centered session introduces electromagnetic hygiene as a practical framework for using technology more intentionally, without fear or abandoning the benefits of modern connectivity. Through live meter demonstrations, attendees learn to distinguish electric fields, magnetic fields, radiofrequency energy, and electrical noise; understand how proximity, duration, and device activity influence exposure; and treat a meter reading as useful information rather than a diagnosis or prediction of health outcomes. A practical AVOID · REDUCE · REPOSITION · FILTER hierarchy prioritizes free, reversible actions before source-specific solutions are considered. Families leave with three immediate changes for the sleep environment, a simple rule for devices used close to the body, eleven habits for the modern home, and a seven-day reset centered on observation, balance, and informed action without panic or denial.

Presenter: Dr. Kathleen Johnson, DNP, FMAPS

Title of Talk: Malevolent Mycotoxins: Recognizing, Evaluating, and Supporting Patients with Mold-Related Illness

Abstract:

Mold can be found almost anywhere, but for some children and adults, exposure to mold and mycotoxins may contribute to a wide range of persistent and often unexplained health challenges. Children with autism, ADHD, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, dysautonomia, PANS/PANDAS, and other complex medical conditions may be especially affected, yet mold-related illness is frequently overlooked.

This presentation explores how mold exposure can affect multiple body systems, why its symptoms are often mistaken for other conditions, and what parents should know when mold may be an underlying contributor to chronic illness. Parents will learn practical approaches to recognizing potential signs of mold-related illness, understanding available testing options for both the individual and the home environment, and reviewing treatment strategies, including gentle detoxification and supportive therapies.

Drawing on clinical experience and inspired by The Mold Paradox: A Journey Through Toxicity and Healing by Emma Carrasco, this presentation weaves together science, photography, patient stories, and lived experiences to help families better understand the often-overlooked role mold can play in complex chronic illness. Parents will leave with greater awareness, practical resources, and hope for identifying and addressing a factor that may be standing in the way of healing.

Presenter: Bri Kurcsak, MS, OTR/L

Title of Talk: The Overlooked Triad in Autism: Why Feeding, Sleep, and Pooping Are More Connected Than You Think

Abstract:

Many children with autism struggle with picky eating, poor sleep, and constipation, yet these concerns are often treated as separate problems or dismissed as something they will outgrow. In reality, they frequently occur together and may reflect underlying challenges with digestion, breathing, and nervous system regulation. Understanding these connections can help parents look beyond symptoms and better understand why their child may be struggling.

In this session, parents will learn a practical, easy-to-understand framework for recognizing how these systems work together, identify common red flags that may warrant further evaluation, and gain tools to advocate for a more comprehensive, whole-child approach to care. You'll leave with a clearer understanding of your child's body and actionable next steps to support long-term health, regulation, and development.

Presenter: Dr. Heather Way, PhD

Title of Talk: Beyond Beige - The Genomic Drivers of Food Selectivity in ASD

Abstract:

Many autistic children struggle with extreme food selectivity, often eating only a small number of beige, carbohydrate-rich foods while refusing vegetables, proteins, and other nutrient-dense options. Families are frequently told their child is simply "picky" or that persistence will eventually solve the problem. But for many children, the reasons run much deeper.

This presentation explores the growing evidence that food selectivity in autism is driven by underlying biology. After common medical issues such as oral-motor dysfunction, swallowing difficulties, and anatomical concerns have been addressed or ruled out, genetics, sensory processing differences, gastrointestinal discomfort, taste perception, inflammation, and metabolism may all contribute to why certain foods are difficult—or even impossible—for a child to tolerate.

Parents will gain a better understanding of why traditional approaches such as repeatedly offering new foods often fail and learn about emerging nutrigenomic strategies, targeted nutritional interventions, and sensory-based approaches that can help gradually expand food choices. Whether a child has severe Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) or simply survives on a limited "beige diet," this session offers a new perspective on one of the most common—and frustrating—challenges faced by families raising autistic children.

Presenter: Dr. Lindsey Wells, ND, FMAPS

Title of Talk: PANS or ASD?

Abstract:

In this practical, evidence-informed session, Dr. Lindsey Wells will explore the complex relationship between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS). Families will learn how these conditions can share many of the same symptoms including anxiety, OCD, repetitive behaviors, sensory changes, emotional dysregulation, food restriction, regression, and cognitive difficulties, while also understanding the key clinical features that help distinguish one from the other.

The presentation will discuss when a child with autism should also be evaluated for PANS and when children initially thought to have autism may actually have an underlying neuroimmune condition. Special emphasis will be placed on recognizing abrupt changes in behavior or development, identifying potential infectious and immune triggers, and understanding why accurate diagnosis is critical for accessing appropriate treatment.

Using current research and clinical experience, parents will leave with a clearer framework for recognizing the overlap between these conditions, knowing when further medical evaluation is warranted, and feeling empowered to advocate for their child's care.

Presenter: Dr. Katherine Welch, MD

Title of Talk: Examining the Links between Autism Spectrum Disorder and Gender Dysphoria

Abstract:

As researchers and clinicians continue to understand the complexities of autism, certain physiological and psychological conditions appear to occur together more frequently than expected. In this session, Dr. Katherine Welch will present current research examining the relationship between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and gender dysphoria (GD), including what is known, and what remains uncertain.

Parents will gain and overview of the published literature, learn about the challenges clinicians face when evaluating individuals who present with both conditions. Dr. Welch will discuss some of the various factors that contribute to the link between them.

Designed to inform rather than persuade, this evidence-informed presentation will stimulate discussion, contribute to our understanding of these emerging trends, and highlight the importance of compassionate, care for every child and family.

Presenter: Dr. Anju Singh, MD, FMAPS

Title of Talk: The Road to Recovery

Abstract:

Every parent asks the same question: What can I do to help my child reach their fullest potential? This lecture provides a practical roadmap for families navigating biomedical care for autism by focusing on the strategies that make the biggest difference. We will discuss what "recovery" can look like for each child, why some children improve while others plateau, and how underlying medical issues vary from individual to individual.

Parents will learn how to prioritize treatments without becoming overwhelmed, recognize meaningful signs of improvement, avoid common mistakes that can slow progress, and build a step-by-step plan based on careful observation and objective tracking. Drawing on decades of clinical experience, this presentation offers realistic hope, practical tools, and guidance to help families make informed decisions and support their child's long-term health, development, and quality of life.