Conference Speakers
Chris D’Adamo, PhD
Scientific Director and Principal Investigator
DR. CHRIS D’ADAMO is an epidemiologist with expertise in the relationship between modifiable lifestyle factors and human health across the lifespan. Dr. D’Adamo received his Ph.D. in Epidemiology in 2010 from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and is currently an Assistant Professor with dual appointments in the Departments of Family & Community Medicine and Epidemiology & Public Health.
Dr. D’Adamo serves as the Director of the Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, the first academic-based integrative medicine center in the United States with an over 30-year history that has collectively published over 1,000 peer-reviewed scientific papers and received over $50 million of competitive research funding.
Dr. D’Adamo has served as Principal Investigator on many clinical trials and observational studies and authored over 60 publications in peer-reviewed scientific and medical journals including Nutrition, Clinical Nutrition, Nutrition Research, American Journal of Health Promotion, Journal of Nutrition, American Journal of Preventive Medicine, Nutrients, Journal of Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics among many others. Dr. D’Adamo is also a Senior Research Advisor to the Institute for Functional Medicine.
Dr. Joseph Mercola
Osteopathic Physician
Lecture Abstract: Will share my journey from having zero patients with autism in my family practice in the 1980s to treating hundreds ten years later. Will review the three non-negotiable things you must do to improve health, no matter what condition you struggle with, so your body can activate its intrinsic healing potential. The key is to improve your metabolic health along with mitochondrial efficiency and output.
DR. AMY YASKO PH.D., NHD, AMD, HHP, FAAIM
Holistic Heal International
LECTURE ABSTRACT: Many individuals begin The Yasko Protocol with the goal to rebalance several pathways in the body simultaneously. If you are looking to build a personalized map for health and wellness by making choices grounded in science, this seminar offers the fundamentals for how to get started with The Yasko Protocol.
This seminar will review the basics of the methylation cycle, including how to begin addressing mutations within the methylation cycle. Dr. Amy will also explore the importance of epigenetics, when to consider detox, and how to evaluate detox by utilizing at-home test kits.
Dr. Amy has been helping people traverse the path of individualized wellness since starting her private practice in the early 2000’s. Whether you are looking to maintain a healthy balance by focusing on a supplement plan specific to your genetics, run biochemical tests related to your health concerns, or assess toxic elements within your body, Dr. Amy’s approach empowers individuals to gain control over their health in a way they have never imagined.
Dr. Amy Yasko has a PhD in Microbiology/Immunology/Infectious Disease from Albany Medical College. She has completed multiple postdoctoral fellowships at Yale Medical center, Wilmot Cancer Institute – University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC), and Pediatric Infectious Disease – URMC.
After working in biotechnology for 15 years, Dr. Yasko shifted her focus to alternative healthcare as a way to address complex molecular health issues. She is a Doctor of Natural Health, board certified Alternative Medical Practitioner, board certified Holistic Health Practitioner, and is a Fellow of the American Association of Integrative Medicine.
She has served as a member of the scientific advisory board for the National Foundation of Alternative Medicine (NFAM) and the Documenting Hope Project for chronic illness.
Dr. Tony Ebel
Chiropractor
LECTURE ABSTRACT: Provides an in-depth training into the role of Maternal Distress, Birth Intervention + Trauma, Subluxation, Vagus Nerve Dysfunction, and Dysautonomia play in the development of chronic pediatric health challenges such as ASD, ADHD, SPD, Anxiety, Epilepsy, Autoimmune Challenges, and more. Dr. Tony is the first in his profession to teach the 10D Model of Subluxation and “The Perfect Storm”, exploring Developmental Diaschisis and more. This lecture goes beyond even typical understanding of the gut-brain connection and microbiome, and explains why so many kids are unable to detox and deal with toxins in today’s environment and lifestyle.
Dr. Tony Ebel is first and foremost an incredible husband, father, and faith-based family man! He is best known for making massive impact in the Pediatric Chiropractic profession and helping lead and grow it for more influence and impact. Specifically he is known for creating The Perfect Storm, a workshop and clinical care approach for kids struggling with neurosensory challenges. He runs a 6-doctor, 65% pediatric, 100% cash and 100% crazy fun, family wellness practice called PWC Chiropractic in Crystal Lake, Illinois and then has also spent the last 10 years teaching and training other chiropractors. In 2020 he and his wife, Kristina, launched The Pediatric Experience, a first-of-its-kind online mentorship and training program that teaches chiropractic students and doctors every single element of what it takes to build a wildly impactful and successful Pediatric, Prenatal, and Family Practice.
Terri Hirning, NHD
IonCleanse by AMD
LECTURE ABSTRACT: It is well known that heavy metal toxicity can wreak havoc on one’s health. However, there are many other toxins and toxicants that are affecting the health of our children as well as adults with chronic health challenges. Terri will explore and compare the different methods of detoxification, the charges of toxicants, and then dive into the often misunderstood science of ionic footbath detoxification.
Terri Hirning serves the autism and chronic illness communities as a mentor, educator, integrative wellness coach, co-author, summit host, and motivational speaker.
It is the personal story of her son’s autism recovery journey that was the inspiration and motivation to move into the integrative wellness community to support others. Terri has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and then went on to complete a doctorate program in traditional naturopathy. She had an integrative wellness and detox coaching practice until 2020.
She has worked for New Beginnings Nutritionals since 2009 and is their Director of Marketing.
Recently, she and her son Matthew launched a podcast called Our I’MPossible Journey to share their story of improving the symptoms of autism and making the impossible possible.
DANA KAY, BOARD CERTIFIED HOLISTIC HEALTH
AND NUTRITION PRACTITIONER
ADHD Thrive Institute
LECTURE ABSTRACT: Turn ADHD Chaos to Calm WITHOUT medication – Don’t let ADHD rob your child of their chance to really shine in life. Learn the 3-step method to make ADHD your child’s superpower, naturally.
- Discover how to reduce your child’s ADHD symptoms without relying on medications.
Identify what research has found to exacerbate ADHD symptoms (which many doctors fail to mention and what most parents unknowingly do). - Understand the profound correlation between food and ADHD, and how simple dietary changes can bring significant behavioral improvements.
- Explore the gut-brain connection that could explain and potentially reverse ADHD symptoms in your children.
Find out how everyday items found in your home—from air fresheners to conventional laundry detergent—could be worsening your child’s symptoms.
Dana Kay is a board-certified holistic health and nutrition practitioner, two times International best selling author, and the CEO and founder of the ADHD Thrive Institute. As a mother of a child with ADHD, she knows firsthand the struggles that come with parenting a neurodiverse child and the freedom that is possible once parents learn to reduce ADHD symptoms. Dana has been featured in Forbes and on Fox and CBS, and various other online media. She has also been a guest at multiple parenting and ADHD summits and podcasts. She has already helped over 1000 families find freedom from ADHD symptoms so that children with ADHD can thrive at home, at school, and in life.
Anju Usman Singh, MD
Integrative Family Physician / True Health Medical Center
LECTURE ABSTRACT: A glance at current statistics leaves no doubt we are in the midst of numerous childhood chronic health epidemics. Researchers point to environmental risk factors playing a role in genetically susceptible individuals. These insults lead to a metabolic train wreck that creates a cell danger response causing dysregulation in methylation pathways, mitochondria, immune, hormone and gastrointestinal function. By addressing each individual’s underlying metabolic and biochemical needs using a functional/biomedical model children’s chronic health and mental health conditions can can often times be ameliorated.
Dr. Anju Usman Singh is director and owner of True Health Medical Center and Pure Compounding Pharmacy in Naperville, Illinois. She specializes in biomedical interventions for children with ADD, Autism, PANDAS/PANS, Down Syndrome and related disorders. She has been involved in research regarding copper/zinc imbalances, metallothionein dysfunction, biofilm related infections and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Dr. Usman Singh serves on the medical advisory boards for TACA (The Autism Community in Action) and Autism Hope Alliance. She is a faculty member and executive committee member for MAPs (Medical Academy for Pediatric Special Needs). Dr. Usman Singh received her medical degree from Indiana University and completed a residency in Family Practice at Cook County Hospital, in Chicago, Illinois. She is board certified in Family Practice and Integrative and Holistic Medicine (ABIHM) and holds a certification in Homeopathy.
Heather Tallman Ruhm, MD
Integrative Family Physician / Documenting Hope Medical Director
Dr. Tallman Ruhm is a Board Certified Family Physician whose primary focus is whole-person health and patient education. She draws on her conventional western training along with insights and skills from functional, integrative, bioregulatory and energy medicine. She believes in the healing capacities of the human frame and supports the power of self-regulation to help her patients recover and access vitality. Dr. Tallman Ruhm was born and raised in Montana. She graduated from Montana State University and later the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard where she received a Master’s in Public Policy. She attained her MD degree from the University of New Mexico School of Medicine and completed her Family Medicine Residency in Colorado and Alabama. She has practiced ambulatory medicine from Coast to Coast, first at the Whitaker Wellness Institute in California, and later multiple integrative clinics in New England. She served as a college professor for over a decade where she taught Pathology and Foundations in Complementary Health and Wellness, a course she co-designed. Dr. Tallman Ruhm is a sought-after public speaker who currently maintains a part-time private practice in Southern New Hampshire. Dr. Tallman Ruhm, along with her husband and daughter, have hosted numerous exchange students. She has also studied and trained abroad and speaks several languages. Although she competed at an elite level in several sports, she is now content with her practice of yoga, skiing, cycling, hiking and gardening.
Sabine Hazan, MD
Gastroenterologist, Clinical Researcher / ProgenaBiome
LECTURE ABSTRACT: The microbiome has had a lot of press in the last decade but what do we know so far? Is Prevotella a good bug or a bad bug? Is Akkermansia a good bug or a bad bug?
What is the effect of too much of one bug and not enough of another. Can microbes implant in the colon if taken by pills? Does implantation of those lost microbes last?
Sabine Hazan is a physician and specialist in gastroenterology, internal medicine and hepatology. As the founder and CEO of Progenabiome, a genetic sequencing research laboratory, she leads 35+ studies investigating the role of the gut flora in various diseases. Dr. Hazan is also the CEO of Ventura Clinical Trials, where she has 20+ years experience leading clinical trials for cutting-edge research on various medical issues. She is a writer, editor, world-renowned speaker and author of Let’s Talk Sh!t. As the first woman ever accepted into the University of Florida as a Clinical Gastroenterology Fellow, Dr. Sabine Hazan is a pioneer in the medical field. She has published articles in numerous prestigious medical journals, and is the Series Editor on the microbiome for Practical Gastroenterology, a peer-reviewed journal that reaches 18,000 gastroenterologists.
Dr. Madiha Saeed
Integrative Family Physician / Documenting Hope Director of Education
LECTURE ABSTRACT: Diets, supplements, protocols can be really expensive. But as a mother of 5, feeding a family of 9 everyday, Dr Saeed will share her tips and tricks to keeping healing time and cost effective for the whole family!
Madiha Saeed, MD, also known as HolisticMom, MD and HolisticUrdu, MD on social media, is a practicing board certified family physician in the USA, international speaker and a global best-selling author, director of education for Documenting Hope and KnoWEwell. She sits on multiple medical advisory boards including Holistic Primary Care and Wellness Mama, was the past president of The International Institute of Islamic Medicine (aka NIIMS) and the president of the non-profit organization, Pure Healing Foundation.
Dr Saeed’s children host “The Holistic Kids’ Show” podcast with over 80 interviews interviewing the biggest names in the functional, holistic and integrative medicine world, helping kids empower and educate other kids. With Dr Saeed’s mother in law they reach millions via HolisticUrdu, MD an online social media platform.
William V. Padula
OD SFNAP FAAO FNORA
Padula Institute of Vision Rehabilitation
LECTURE ABSTRACT: A neurological event affects visual processing interfering with development, learning abilities as well as socialization. Symptoms, such as blurring, double vision (diplopia), photophobia, headaches, balance difficulties and dizziness, are often mistaken for other problems and/or overlooked due to the prioritization for medical treatment.
Vision is more than just the image that we see. Vision occurs in the brain but is facilitated by the eyes. A neurological or systemic event will affect the brain and in turn affect the visual processing causing difficulty with tracking, convergence and focusing. These are not eye muscle problems but are characteristics of dysfunction in visual processing in the brain.
This presentation will explore the visual process and its two modes of organization: the focal process delivering consciousness and attention and the spatial process. The spatial visual process is often overlooked. It is the platform of the higher seeing process.
Research will be presented to demonstrate an evidenced based model and approach to diagnosing and treating visual processing dysfunction.
The presentation will provide an understanding how compromise of the visual process causes interference with development, learning and motor function as well as how treatment through lenses and prisms can provide a means to reorganize visual processing.
William V. Padula, O.D., is a graduate of Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University of Health Sciences. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association International (NORA), and the National Academy of Practice.
Dr. Padula completed a fellowship at the Gesell Institute where he was also Director of Vision Research. He was the founding Chairman of the Low Vision Section for the American Optometric Association, and the founding President of NORA. Dr. Padula was appointed the National Consultant in Low Vision Services for the American Foundation for the Blind. He has also served as Consultant to the Committee on Vision for the National Academy of Sciences in Washington, D.C. Recently he has served as a consultant to the Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, D.C. He is the Past Chairperson of the National Academy of Practice in Optometry, and is the Treasurer of the National Academy of Practice (NAP).
Dr. Padula founded the first low vision clinic at the Zhongshan Eye Research Hospital in Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China, which was named in his honor. He lectures and consults internationally in China, India, Italy, Mexico, etc., with programs regarding children’s vision related to learning and development, and adult vision problems related to stroke, TBI and other physical challenges.
Julie Matthews
Certified Nutrition Consultant / Nourishing Hope
LECTURE ABSTRACT: Each child is unique and so are their nutritional needs. Good nutrition is essential for all children, but especially for one with a chronic condition. And the right therapeutic diet can make a profound impact on a child. However, there is no one-size-fits-all diet. Getting good nutrition and knowing which therapeutic diet to use (gluten-free, casein-free, grain-free/SCD, low salicylate, low histamine) can be challenging, especially for complex conditions. Julie Matthews, Certified Nutrition Consultant, published researcher, and expert in the application of personalized nutrition for children, shares with you her BioIndividual Nutrition approach. It was developed from over 20 years of experience working with children with autism, ADHD, and other complex childhood conditions. She shares what you want to know about adding healthy foods, choosing a therapeutic diet, and how to begin to create a personalized nutrition plan that helps your child thrive.
Julie Matthews, MS, NC, is a Certified Nutrition Consultant who received her master’s degree in medical nutrition with distinction from Arizona State University. She is also a published nutrition researcher and has specialized in complex neurological conditions, particularly autism spectrum disorders and ADHD for over 20 years. She is the author of the award-winning book, Nourishing Hope for Autism, and co-author of a study proving the efficacy of nutrition and dietary intervention for autism published in the peer-reviewed journal, Nutrients. Julie’s approach is based on the BioIndividual Nutrition® needs of each person and stems from her work with autism. Using autism as a model for complex chronic disease, her approach and methodology on personalized nutrition helps parents and practitioners specializing in varied disorders improve health and healing through strategic BioIndividual Nutrition and dietary intervention. Julie supports families and clinicians from around the world with her nutrition learning tools and professional training courses. Visit http://NourishingHope.com and http://BioIndividualNutrition.com
Carol Garner-Houston
OTR/L, Brain Harmony Co-Founder and Chief Clinical Officer
LECTURE ABSTRACT: While rates of neurological disorders for children and adults rise to unfathomable levels, successful treatment options remain limited and too often fail to resolve the root cause of many of the conditions plaguing our children – autism spectrum disorders, speech and language conditions, mood disorders, sensory processing, auditory process and learning disorders, emotional dysregulation, social delays and trauma.
All of these conditions share symptoms of a disorganized brain and dysregulated nervous system.
The 4 Steps to Neurological C.A.L.M. is a clinically proven protocol to regulate and rewire the brain and central nervous system to function optimally.
Carol is a licensed occupational therapist who has specialized in helping adults and children coping with neurodevelopmental challenges for the past 25 years. Making home care delivery convenient nationwide, she has brought together an innovative approach to cognitive and behavioral change through her nationally licensed, telehealth program.
Brain Harmony is a private medical care company that uses the neuroplasticity of the brain to provide the most powerful and proven therapy to help children and adults with learning and performance difficulties. The key priorities at Brain Harmony include accelerated outcomes, support and compassion to the families, facilitating affordable access to care and helping patients find their unique purpose. This is achieved through the delivery of a variety of unique services, including their prestigious video coaching program, with profound improvement in function for disorders including sensory processing disorder, executive function disorder, learning difficulties, attention and regulation, behavior, autism spectrum disorder, concussion syndrome as well as stroke and brain injury recovery. Due to the neuroplasticity of the brain, their programs are changing everything in the outcomes of rehabilitating the human system.
Sargent Goodchild
Active Healing
LECTURE ABSTRACT: This lecture will focus on the pons and midbrain levels of the brain. The attendees will learn how dysfunction in these two foundational brain stages present symptomatically in terms of behavioral and learning disabilities. Utilizing his own history, Sargent will depict how it is possible to recover from debilitating disorders through the power of developmental movement.
Sargent began his life as a brain-injured child. At four years of age, Sargent was diagnosed with a seizure disorder. None of the professionals who met Sargent were capable of seeing his potential. Instead, they saw a severely epileptic child with a dismal future.
The best medical advice his parents were given was to put him on anticonvulsant and muscle-relaxing medication. Yet, the seven medications that he was taking were not controlling the seizures, and he was too toxic for his parents to bear.
Sargents’ parents chose another route due to their deep love and understanding as well as the glimmers of potential he expressed at home, but never in the doctor’s office.
They wanted him to be well and were not limited by academic knowledge, rather positively motivated by parental love. They went outside the medical community and found hope for Sargent’s future. Their faith, hope and determination saved the life of their son, a life that would have otherwise been devastated by the prescription medications he was taking.
Sargent’s life experiences speak of the success of this program: He graduated with honors from a respected university, was a highly ranked wrestler, cross-country runner and a professional mountain biker. He has bicycled across the United States and Canada and has done extensive offshore offshore sailing.
He is happily married, a father, and both founder and executive director of Active Healing, Inc. His goal in life is to give every child, especially those who are developmentally challenged, the opportunity to reach their optimal physical and intellectual potential. You can found out more about him at this website ActiveHealing.org
Luis Garcia, MD
MD, Founder and Executive Director, Dr Garcia Biomagnetism
LECTURE ABSTRACT: Biomagnetism equips health professionals to get better results and empowers parents to take charge of their children’s health. Dr. Garcia shows how biomagnetism helps support homeostasis which, in turn, helps to restore the innate immune function. He shares how clients who could not find help elsewhere found resolution to their issues with biomagnetism. He demystifies complex illnesses by explaining how biomagnetism addresses underlying issues. Dr. Garcia also shares his experience with biomagnetism in Africa. With the only essential tools being magnets, Dr. Garcia is eager to spread the knowledge of biomagnetism worldwide so improved health will be accessible to all.
Luis Garcia is a medical doctor licensed in Colombia. He served as Medical Director and Chief Science Officer of Salud Futura Clinic in Bogotá, Colombia until June 2010 where he was recognized as a leading Complementary and Alternative Medicine expert in areas which include cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, chronic fatigue, autoimmune disease, cancer, and geriatrics.
Dr. Garcia was always unsettled about how conventional medicine treated symptoms rather than underlying causes. When he learned about biomagnetism, he incorporated it into his medical practice rigorously testing the results with conventional diagnostics. After two years, the effectiveness was evident. He returned to the United States to establish a biomagnetism practice.
Dr. Garcia is a leader in biomagnetism. Through his innovative and academically rigorous approach, he has developed protocols addressing TBIs, Lyme disease, sleep disturbances, and breast cancer. He has participated in a pilot study in Kenya showing the effectiveness of biomagnetism with malaria. More research is needed and Dr. Garcia is in the preliminary stages of establishing a biomagnetism association which will support clinical biomagnetism research.
Dr. Garcia practices Biomagnetism in NJ and NY and has developed his own dynamic training program offering seminars throughout the year.
Amy Ziff
Founder & Executive Director Nontoxic Certified & MADE SAFE
LECTURE ABSTRACT: Going beyond diet, there are numerous ways to reduce your toxic load. This talk will share ways to improve your resilience by cultivating a healthier home environment.
Amy Ziff is Founder and Executive Director of Nontoxic Certified & the MADE SAFE® certification. Nontoxic Certified uses a comprehensive ecosystem approach to evaluate ingredients and provide guidance for brands transitioning to safer materials. Amy pioneered the rigorous MADE SAFE seal, the revolutionary Ecosystem Screening Process, The MADE SAFE Banned List, and built the organization’s ingredient database.
MADE SAFE is America’s first independent, 3rd party cross-category certification program for nontoxic consumer products. With MADE SAFE, she is harnessing our collective purchasing power to change the marketplace. The innovative MADE SAFE® (Made With Safe Ingredients™) seal allows consumers to easily purchase safely made products that won’t harm humans, animals, aquatic life or air, water, or soil. The Ecosystem Approach makes world-class science affordable for companies of all sizes.
With this platform, Ziff has built a robust community of people who want products that won’t harm people or the planet. Amy has consulted with hundreds of companies on ingredient liabilities, opportunities for improvement, and product pitfalls leveraging the 360-degree Ecosystem Approach to improve thousands of products.
LECTURE ABSTRACT: Dr. Svetlana Masgutova, Ph.D in psychology and founder/developer of the Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration Program (MNRI®) and Dr. Leah Light, clinical audiologist and director of the Florida-based Brainchild Institute, will discuss how early underpinnings of our development — primary reflexes — contribute to a child’s developmental domains, including auditory and speech-language skills. For years, therapists have taught compensatory strategies around retained primitive reflexes, which often expend the child’s effort and ability to complete tasks. Working with primary reflex patterns using non-invasive MNRI® techniques can re-establish innate pathways to support sensory processing, ultimately leading to improved motor condition, listening, attention, and communication skills.
Dr. Masgutova has developed the MNRI® Reflex Assessment, which evaluates the function of primary reflex patterns based on multiple factors. The MNRI® Reflex Assessment provides a clear understanding of the level of reflex development and the overall state of the sensory-motor system in an individual. The assessment can identify normal or abnormal reflex patterns expressed in newborns, infants, children, and adults.
The MNRI® (Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration) program applies non-invasive neuromodulation techniques to access reflex circuit pathways. These safe techniques aim to support reflex integration, well-being, and whole-person health. Decades of practical work and published research have demonstrated the positive effects of the MNRI® on sensory-motor integration and physical, emotional, social, and cognitive development in babies, children, and adults. The MNRI® Reflex Integration program reaches an estimated 300,000 children and adults in 40 countries.
Dr. Masgutova has published over 200 works on psychology, education, reflex Integration, and human development, including her latest book, Autism: Maximize Potential with MNRI® Reflex Integration. She received her doctorate in educational and developmental psychology and post-doctorate in Russia.
Leah Light, Au.D.
The Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration – MNRI® Method
Dr. Leah Light is founder and director of the Brainchild Institute in Doral, FL. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education and her Master of Science and clinical doctorate (Au.D.) degrees in Audiology. Dr. Light is a member and certified by the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) and the American Academy of Audiology (AAA). For the past 30 years, Dr. Light’s focus has been on neurodevelopment and neuroplasticity. She specializes in the evaluation and remediation of Auditory Processing Disorders (APD). In addition, Dr. Light is a certified Core Specialist in the Masgutova Method (MNRI), a program for addressing retained primary reflexes, which are often at the root of communicative disorders and learning disabilities. Dr. Light’s mission is to improve listening, attention, and learning skills in children of all ages by addressing the whole child using an integrative audiology approach.
Vicki Kobliner, MS, RDN, CD-N
Holcare Nutrition and the Healthy Baby Roadmap
LECTURE ABSTRACT: Nutrition is the cornerstone of growth and development for all children, healthy or ill. Every biochemical pathway relies on vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fats, and other essential cofactors. Chronic illness depletes these nutrients, while underlying dysfunction in digestion and absorption can further widen the gap between nutrient needs and intake. For a child with any chronic illness the lack of critical nutrients can have far-reaching effects, particularly in the areas of neurocognitive, immune and mitochondrial function, as well as inflammation, detoxification and methylation. This lecture is an essential primer on using therapeutic nutrition for healing.
Vicki Kobliner MS RDN CD-N is a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist and owner of Holcare Nutrition and the Healthy Baby Roadmap. Vicki is passionate about helping children and families live vibrant, healthy lives using functional nutrition to maximize health, reduce disease risk and help her clients heal from chronic illness. Vicki works with infants, through adults with chronic illnesses, autoimmune diseases, digestive disorders, eczema, allergies, ADHD, PANS/PANDAS and autism spectrum disorders. She provides fertility and prenatal nutrition counseling with a focus on reducing the risk of chronic illnesses in children. She is a contributing author to two books: A Compromised Generation: The Epidemic of Chronic Illness in Americas Children, and Essential Remedies for Women’s Health. She has lectured nationally and internationally about the role of nutrition in chronic disease and acts as faculty for the Autism Research Institute and the Medical Academy of Pediatric Special Needs.
Beth Lambert, MA
Executive Director, Documenting Hope
Author, educator and former healthcare consultant, Beth Lambert has monitored and documented the escalating rates of childhood chronic conditions for over a decade. Her first book, A Compromised Generation, provides a thorough analysis of the origins of this modern health crisis and documents how modifications to environmental and lifestyle factors can profoundly influence health outcomes, including full disease reversal. Beth is also the co-author of Brain Under Attack: A Resource for Parents and Caregivers of Children with PANS, PANDAS, and Autoimmune Encephalitis.
Beth is the founder and Executive Director of Epidemic Answers, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to reestablishing vibrant health in our children. She is also the creator and Executive Producer of The Documenting Hope Project, a multi-year prospective research study and media project that examines the cumulative impact of environmental stressors on health and their mitigation through personalized and systems-based treatment approaches.
Nancy Hofreuter-O’Hara, MD, MPH, FAAP
PANS/PANDAS
LECTURE ABSTRACT: PANS & PANDAS are complex autoimmune diseases that require a multi-system approach. PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Strep) involves antibodies from a strep infection reacting with brain tissue (specifically the basal ganglia in the brain) and triggering an abrupt onset of immune dysregulation and movement, learning and behavioral problems including OCD, anxiety and tics. With PANS (Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome), other infectious etiologies besides strep (yeast, viruses, other bacteria, parasites), toxic exposures, and metabolic abnormalities are among other potential triggers for the immune dysregulation resulting in an abnormal autoimmune reaction and negative behavior, physical, and cognitive changes. Lyme Disease and co-infections may cause or contribute to an acute or subacute presentation and also need to be assessed and treated appropriately. Dr. O’Hara will discuss the latest research in the assessment and treatment of these devastating but recoverable illnesses. Participants will learn the research-based functional medicine approach to the care, diagnosis and treatment of these children.
Dr. Nancy O’Hara is a Pediatrician. Prior to her medical career, Dr. O’Hara taught children with autism. She graduated with highest honors from Bryn Mawr College and as a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. She earned a Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Pittsburgh. After residency, chief residency and general pediatric fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. O’ Hara entered general private practice in 1993, and in 1998 began her consultative, integrative practice solely for children with special needs. Since 1999 she has dedicated her functional medicine practice to the integrative and holistic care of children with chronic illness and neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD, PANDAS/PANS, OCD, Lyme and ASD. She is also a leader in the training of clinicians, both in the United States and abroad. Dr. O’Hara has written a comprehensive guidebook, Demystifying PANS / PANDAS: A Functional Medicine Desktop Reference on Basal Ganglia Encephalitis, which is available on Amazon in e-book or soft-cover formats. For more information on her membership and mentoring program, please visit www.drohara.com.
Jennifer Bahr, ND, DHANP
Homeopathy for PANS/PANDAS/ASD
LECTURE ABSTRACT: This presentation will briefly review some scientific studies related to how homeopathy works, discuss how an intake is done and a remedy selected, how complex cases are managed (including when there are medications and supplements being used as well), give tips on finding and having an effective visit with a homeopath, and end with a few short case examples.
Dr. Jennifer Bahr, ND, DHANP is the founder and Chief Medical Officer of Resilience Naturopathic, a large group practice devoted to making PANS/PANDAS a thing of the past and homeopathy the medicine of the future. Her commitment stems from her personal experience as a child who would have been diagnosed with PANS had she been born 20 years later than she was. Her life‘s work is dedicated to bringing awareness to PANS/PANDAS, teaching the world about the healing power of homeopathy, and changing the outcome for the children and families that are suffering. Dr. Bahr is a graduate of Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine as well as the University of Maryland, where she earned her BS in physiology and neurobiology. She also proudly served the US Navy as an Arabic linguist.
James M. Bronson, D.D.S.
Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. James M. Bronson is a 1983 Cum Laude Graduate of Georgetown University School of Dentistry. Dr. Bronson taught for five years at Georgetown University School of Dentistry in the Department of Fixed Prosthodontics. For 40 years, he has maintained a private practice in McLean, Virginia that is dedicated to whole body dentistry, with special interests in TMD, cranial facial pain, implant dentistry, orofacial myofunctional therapy, and transformational orthodontics.
Dr. James M. Bronson is founder of The ALF Educational Institute, LLC. He has lectured in the U.S., Canada, Asia, and Europe on the ALF paradigm, cranial-friendly orthodontics, transformational orthodontics: a team approach, and the platinum age of dentistry.
Dr. James Bronson established the first Mini Residency Program to teach the ALF transformational concept. He has published three peer-reviewed dental health articles and is a Fellow and Certified Senior Instructor for the International Association of Orthodontics. Dr. Bronson has joined the Medical Advisory Board of the Documenting Hope Project.
Alex Bronson, D.M.D.
Family Dentistry
LECTURE ABSTRACT: An assessment of how our current modern lifestyles may be negatively impacting our dental and overall health. How environment, life styles, food, air, and water are impacting our health. What can we recognize, manage, change and when to seek out treatment to improve and optimize our health.
Dr. J. Alex Bronson is a 2012 Graduate of Midwestern University Arizona College of Dental Medicine. He has co-authored 2 published articles, is a clinical faculty member at the ALF Educational Institute, and has lectured nationally on ALF orthodontics and cranial facial growth. He practices with his father and sister, both also dentists, in an integrative and Holistic practice. Their “Whole Body Approach to Dentistry,” focuses on the root causes of dental and systemic issues. By understanding the connections of one’s health history, diet, nutrition, airway, breathing habits, tongue position, the occlusion, and cranial facial development, we have been able to dramatically improve many chronic issues in both children and adults.
Aran Goldstein
Chef
Aran Goldstein is a chef, teacher and entrepreneur dedicated to helping others reach their potential through food. A graduate of Northeastern University and the New England Culinary Institute, his experiences have spanned fine dining restaurants in the Northeast, to stages in Michelin Stars in Italy, to opening a restaurant in China. He has taught hundreds of lessons along the way, from an organic farm cooking school, to medical students learning food as medicine. In 2020 he and his family moved to Europe to cook for the new Village Forest School in Piemonte, Italy. They then moved to Portugal where, Aran built an online cooking course geared to support individuals and families, through their journeys in food, cooking, and thriving as humans. He now leads a farm to table school lunch program in Austin, Texas where he lives with his wife and son.
Sharon Hausman-Cohen MD
CO-FOUNDER, CHIEF SCIENCE OFFICER, & MEDICAL DIRECTOR IntellixDNA
HEALTH PROFESSIONAL TRACK LECTURE ABSTRACT:The incidence of ASD has increased dramatically over the past 30 years from 1:1000 to 1:100. This is not due to genetics but is due to genomics. In this talk, Dr. Hausman-Cohen will discuss how genomic contributing factors such as those contributing to inflammation, nutritional deficiencies, gut issues, mitochondria and even brain scaffolding and development can be identified and addressed in a targeted fashion, allowing for the development of a personalized plan and improvement in outcomes. A case study of a 13-year-old who was diagnosed with ASD at age 3 will be presented.
PARENT TRACK LECTURE ABSTRACT: Genomics is the study of small changes in an individual’s DNA called SNPs that are not disease-causing but are disease-contributing. In the case of ASD, SNPs that relate to inflammation, detox, mitochondrial issues, brain receptors and nutrients are all important. In this talk, Dr. Hausman-Cohen will talk about the progress that has been made in the last few years with being able to address genomics in a targeted way. The development of a precision plan for each child or young adult with ASD can lead to sustained improvements in their health and behavior and in many cases support recovery. She will use 3 actual cases, including one of identical twins.
They envisioned and created a tool that could help identify root causes of autism, cognitive decline, environmentally acquired illness, and other chronic illnesses, BUT also a tool that could help clinicians know how to address these genomic factors. The IntellxxDNA™ clinical decision support tool is now being used to make genomics actionable and understandable. IntellxxDNA is being used as part of medical decision-making by physicians across the country.
Dr. Hausman-Cohen loves combining her passion for science and medicine and using her scientific mind to integrate large amounts of complex data. She is proud that IntellxxDNA™ is currently being used in studies addressing autism and complex illnesses in children as well as in adult studies geared at the reversal of cognitive decline. She is the co-author of many publications relating to genomics including two that focus on autism. She is also the primary author of a precision medicine textbook chapter on genomics and neurodegenerative diseases and a chapter in a book published by Frontiers in Neuroscience and Aging relating to frontiers in dementia treatment.
She has taught extensively across the country at conferences for physicians as well as for community members. Dr. Hausman-Cohen is the co-founder of Resilient Health which is her patient facing practice in Austin, TX.
Tom Moorcroft, DO
Medical Director, Origins of Health
LECTURE ABSTRACT: Join Dr. Tom Moorcroft, DO on a journey to developing a deeper understanding of pediatric tick-borne infections, including the keys to unlocking some of the most difficult, treatment resistant cases. With over 15 years experience treating chronic Lyme disease and tick-borne coinfections in children and adults, Dr. Tom will be sharing key presenting features and core treatment principles you need to know when seeing children with potential tick-borne illness. We’ve all heard, kids aren’t just small adults; in fact, by developing a deeper understanding of the nuances of the treatment of pediatric tick-borne illness, you’ll be more prepared to support your adult patients as well. Dive in and uncover the hidden secrets to addressing pediatric tick-borne illness so you can return to your clinic feeling much more confident and get greater results.
He is the creator of the Thrive With Lyme Blueprint which assists those suffering with Lyme and related illnesses tap into the true source of radiant health within them and optimize healing. He also teaches practitioners how to easily and effortlessly excel at treating patients with complex, chronic illnesses in his Lyme Disease Practitioner Certification and Mentorship program.
Dr. Tom’s goal is to empower each of his patients to get in touch with their inner source of health so they can experience optimal health.
Mandy Blume
MS Nutrition, Doctoral candidate, Real Food Recovery
Speaking for The Weston A. Price Foundation
LECTURE ABSTRACT: If we want to recover, we must connect health with our food. 67% of Americans are overweight, compared to 33% worldwide. Why are we sicker? What are we eating that is causing epidemic diseases in our children and population?
From a practitioner, a 15-year volunteer in foster group homes, and a mom of an autistic son, let’s have an honest discussion on easy foods to make. Let’s discuss valid research showing how diet modifications, including a GFCF diet, can reduce stereotypical behaviors and improve the cognition of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and more!
Mandy Blume is a wife, mom, clinician, and volunteer to foster kids in group homes. She is a published author of a best-selling cookbook and works part-time helping families with functional nutrition. Currently practicing at Docs Outside the Box, patients can experience the full spectrum of nutrition along with other modalities from brilliant doctors and providers in cardiology and oriental medicine.
Recognizing that life can give some challenging situations, Mandy finds inspiration in changing up the game to beat all the naysayers. Choosing to have fun in the healing is critical! By finding enjoyment in the right foods and sometimes food supplements, powerful results will happen!
As a mom of a child born with an anoxic brain injury and expressing autism, fostering a son with neuroblastoma cancer, Mandy became the force behind the advocacy portal and website of the same name, “Real Food Recovery,” a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to children-at-risk; including the local Foster/Orphan children.
With first-hand experience, Mandy enjoys helping kids witness miracles and find peace, partnering with adults to build better immune systems and mental wellness, and improving grades/performance. The goal is to inspire CHOICE to create the best, strongest, and healthiest life possible.
MICHELLE PERRO, MD
Integrative Pediatrician / Regenerative Health Institute
LECTURE ABSTRACT: Dr. Perro will delve into a short summary into the basics of homeopathy, common remedies one might use at home, and how they might be utilized for some of the issues facing our children today. In a pragmatic and easy-to-understand format, the attendees will gain the understanding of the basics of homeopathic practice and application.
Dr. Perro is a Board certified 37 year veteran pediatrician, with a background in Pediatric Emergency Medicine and Integrative Medicine. She did her undergraduate work at Yale University, medical school training at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York and completed her residency in Pediatrics at NYU/Bellevue Hospital. She presently supervises complex, chronically patient care at Gordon Medical Associates in Northern California and teaches Integrative Medicine nationally as well as internationally. She has just published her first book, “What’s Making our Children Sick?“, exploring the links between the epidemic of chronically ill children and modern food with a lens on genetically engineered foods and their associated pesticides. She is Executive Director of the non-profit website, www.gmoscience.org, a scientific-based organization focused on the interface of health and genetically modified foods/pesticides. She also serves on the Advisory Boards of a non-toxic based website (https://madesafe.org) and a website supporting families and toxic exposures (https://www.familyacts.org).
CHRISTIAN BOGNER, MD, CFMNP, FACOG
Founder – Bogner Health, LLC
LECTURE ABSTRACT: Limited advancements have been observed in addressing the challenges faced by individuals affected by autism. The adoption of the spelling-to-communicate approach has gained significant traction within our community, prompting a growing realization that autism primarily stems from motor-sensory impairments rather than cognitive deficiencies. In this context, we introduce a concept centered on motor neuron toxicity as well as genetic predispositions. Additionally, our discourse encompasses innovative intervention strategies, notably the utilization of microbiome balancing as well as other strategies. This exploration seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of the multifaceted factors contributing to autism while simultaneously addressing potential avenues for therapeutic intervention.
Dr. Christian Bogner stands as an accomplished practitioner in the realm of functional medicine, diligently investigating the underlying triggers of neuropsychiatric disorders. Within the sphere of his practice, he extends his expertise to families grappling with a spectrum of conditions including autism, anxiety, cognitive disorders, depression and others. With a solid foundation in the surgical domain of medicine, Dr. Bogner boasts an impressive 17-year tenure in clinical practice, during which he has seamlessly transitioned his focus to the arena of functional medicine.Notably, Dr. Bogner has achieved certification in Plant-Based Nutrition from Cornell University, a testament to his commitment to holistic healthcare. His involvement in an imminent autism University trial underscores his dedication to advancing knowledge and treatment options in this critical field. As recognized clinical consultant for MaxGen Labs, LLC, a distinguished genetic polymorphism laboratory with global impact, Dr. Bogner’s influence is felt among more than 800 practitioners worldwide. He is not only deeply immersed in the scientific exploration of genetics but also in environmental toxicities, consistently sharing his insights through lectures delivered both within the United States and on the international stage. His philosophy underscores integrative approaches to addressing disease, offering invaluable perspectives on the interplay between genetics and environmental factors. Dr. Bogner’s multifaceted expertise, honed through years of diverse experience and ongoing research, positions him as a beacon of innovation in the intersection of medicine, genetics, and functional healthcare.
JAMIE BELZ, FNTP, MHC
The Nutritional Therapy Association
LECTURE ABSTRACT: Functional, Holistic, Integrative, Alternative, Natural – – – MDs, PhDs, DOs, PAs, NPs, RNs, RDs – – – Health Coaches, Nutritional Therapy Practitioners, Personal Trainers – – – Imagine a world where these knowledgeable professionals utilize their extensive skillsets in a cohesive healthcare model connecting and honoring all facets for optimal health. This utopic fantasy becomes our reality as we build comprehensive wellness networks and enhance our healthcare teams. When we are colleagues, not competition, we shift the paradigm and reverse the trend of preventable poor health, training our pediatric patients to be the wellness champions of tomorrow.
Jamie is a wife, the mother of five vibrant babes, a Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (FNTP), a Master Health Coach, the Business Development Specialist for the Nutritional Therapy Association, and the owner of Revolution World Fitness and Revolution Corporate Wellness.
As a former Director of Marketing and Public Relations for a hospital, Jamie focused on community health initiatives and developed programs for children in area schools. It was during this time that she discovered her place in holistic health.
Jamie loves helping other health practitioners develop business strategies to make meaningful incomes and thrive as catalysts for healthful change in the world.
As the Business Development Specialist, Jamie seeks symbiotic relationships to grow the saturation of businesses and practitioners who utilize nutritional truth to effectively reverse the trend of preventable poor health.
Carin Winter
Mission Be
Carin Winter founded Mission Be Inc., a nonprofit organization teaching mindfulness in schools. Since 2013, Mission Be has impacted 28 states and 11 nations, 322 schools and institutions and over 340,000 children.
Carin is a NYS Licensed Master Social Worker and has extensive experience working with youth in schools and formal counseling settings. She spent ten years as a school social worker on Long Island.
Carin founded and maintained Healing Arts of the South Shore, a private counseling and healing practice for over a decade, as well as Embrace Yoga Studio.
Carin has presented at The White House, Facebook, Tiger 21, Americorp, CIIS, The NY Open Center, The Omega Institute, Wisdom 2.0, The Assemblage, DLA Piper, The Palo Alto VA Hospital, Santa Clara University, Menlo College, St. Joseph’s College and Long Island University. She has also served as a substitute teacher and guest lecturer at Stanford University. www.missionbe.org