Autism Spectrum Disorders: Year-In-Review

This full-day symposium is for physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, other health professionals, teachers, autism service providers, and any others interested in learning about the latest breakthroughs in research and treatment in autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Nationally-renowned UCLA Center for Autism Research and Treatment (CART) faculty (including Drs. Dan Geschwind, Susan Bookheimer, James McCracken and CART Pilot Grant investigator Dr. Beate Ritz) will participate as key speakers and discussants. The presentations will provide an update of the latest scientific findings of the epidemiology, etiological factors, underlying neurobehavioral mechanisms, and gene-environment interactions for ASD. Biomarkers for early identification and assessment of intervention outcomes, implications of the 2013 revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) definition of autism for diagnosis and practice, and optimal treatment planning including behavioral interventions and medications also will be reviewed. This continuing education symposium is designed to equip community practitioners so that they can apply the most effective “best practices” for assessment and treatment to families, children and young adults with ASD.