Autism Speaks is pleased to announce that registration is now open for its inaugural National Conference for Families and Professionals. This conference on Treating the Whole Person with Autism: Providing Comprehensive Care for Children and Adolescents with ASD will be held August 3 and 4, 2012, at the Hilton Columbus at Easton, in Columbus, Ohio. Other conference partners include Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, the Health Resources and Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

This conference will be open to physicians, psychologists, nurses, allied health professionals, educators, behavioral specialists and other professionals, as well as families affected by autism. It will feature science sessions and practical workshops focused on a wide range of issues pertaining to immune and metabolic dysfunction, gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures, sleep issues, medication management, challenging behaviors, transition planning and coordination of medical care, among other topics. Keynote speakers will include pediatrician Ricki Robinson, MD (author of Autism Solutions) and Peter Gerhardt, EdD, director of education at New York City's McCarton School.

We are proud to offer a family friendly environment for families attending the conference. Entertaining and recreational off-site activities have been arranged for Friday and Saturday during the day.