3rd Annual Autism Educational Summit Caregiver and Community Day
About this Event
Join us for a day of learning, connection, and empowerment at the 3rd Annual Autism Educational Summit – Caregiver and Community Day. This full-day event brings together families, caregivers, and community members for meaningful conversations and practical tools centered around the support of autistic children and adolescents.
Hear from knowledgeable speakers and community advocates who will share real-world strategies and the latest insights in autism care, presented in an accessible, inclusive format designed with caregivers and families in mind.
This Summit champions the power of active partnership, uniting individuals with autism, their families, and their healthcare, educational, and community-based teams around a shared commitment to better outcomes. Discussions will span the full continuum of support, including the benefits of early diagnosis, genetic insights, Medic*tion management, sensory and emotional regulation strategies, educational advocacy, caregiver burnout, and guiding adolescents through the critical transition into adulthood.
Through engaging presentations and panel discussions, attendees will leave with:
- A deeper understanding and acceptance of autism
- Awareness of available resources and community support
- Practical tools to strengthen advocacy and caregiving for children with autism and their families
The Autism Educational Summit underscores the importance of active partnerships among autistic individuals, their families, and their healthcare, educational, and community-based teams. This event reflects Phoenix Children's ongoing commitment to providing the best healthcare, healing, and hope for children and the families we serve.
The 3rd Annual Autism Educational Summit – Caregiver and Community Day will be offered in-person only.
Registration Information
This event is open to all – parents, caregivers, educators, and community members who support and celebrate individuals with autism.
$10.00 – In-Person
We want everyone to feel welcome and supported. Scholarships and financial assistance are available – simply email us at to apply.
Please Note: Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Your registration fee helps support this program. For those attending in person, it also includes a light breakfast, lunch, snacks, and refreshments throughout the day. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Barrow at Phoenix Children’s Autism Program Fund #1521, supporting services and resources for families in our community.
Payment is due at the time of registration.
Cody Clark is a professional magician and autistic self-advocate from Louisville, KY. He was diagnosed with autism at 15 months of age, and his parents were warned he'd never walk, talk, hold down jobs or tell them he loved them. His parents’ tenacity combined with therapy services received from autism specialists and at school allowed him to surpass all expectations!
He shares his magic show and talks for audiences ranging from Public Library patrons, K through 12 students, college students, educators, and corporate employees how autism makes him see the world differently and that he and others with autism have similar life goals and desires as anyone else. His favorite type of audience, however, is when he gets to help others with disabilities become successful adults. His mission is to help people realize that differences like autism are nothing to be scared of - but rather a different way of thinking.
Cody Clark is a professional magician and motivational speaker who uses his craft to advocate for the neurodivergent community. Diagnosed with autism at 15 months old, Clark incorporates his personal narrative into his performances to demonstrate that differences are "nothing to be scared of—but rather a different way of thinking".
Agenda
🕑: 08:00 AM
Registration and Exhibit Space Opens
🕑: 09:00 AM
Welcome & Introductions
Host: Dannah G. Raz, MD, MPH
🕑: 09:05 AM - 10:05 AM
Keynote Presentation: A Different Way of Thinking
Host: Cody Clark
🕑: 10:05 AM - 10:45 AM
Diagnosing Autism: Why It Matters
Host: Marla Martin, PsyD
Info: This talk will discuss the benefits of a diagnosis (including later in life), diagnostic disparities (including gender differences), and stigma
🕑: 10:45 AM
Break
🕑: 11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
Advocating for Autistic Youth: Navigating Schools with Confidence
Host: Nicholas A. Tanner, PhD
🕑: 11:40 AM - 12:20 PM
Transition: Advocacy for Autistic Adolescents Entering Adulthood
Host: Veenod L. Chulani, MD
🕑: 12:20 PM
Lunch
🕑: 01:00 PM - 01:40 PM
Panel Discussion
Host: Kirsten McCombs
Info: Moderated by Dannah Raz, MD, MHP and Randi Phelps, PhD
🕑: 01:40 PM
Break
🕑: 01:55 PM - 02:35 PM
An Occupational Therapy Approach: Sensory & Emotional Regulation
Host: Sarah Cunningham, OT
🕑: 02:35 PM - 03:15 PM
Medic*tion Mgmt of Aggression and Irritability in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Host: Todd P. Levine, MD
Info: Medic*tion Management of Aggression and Irritability in Autism Spectrum Disorder
🕑: 03:15 PM - 03:55 PM
Beyond Survival: Building Resilience and Self-Care as an Autism Caregiver
Host: Meghan J. Kanya, PhD
🕑: 03:55 PM
Closing Remarks
🕑: 04:00 PM
Adjourn
Exhibitors
ACCEL
Host: ACCEL
Info: Our mission is to empower individuals with special needs and developmental disabilities to develop the necessary skills to learn, work, and live successfully with independence and dignity
Arizona Caregiver Coalition
Host: Arizona Caregiver Coalition
Info: The Arizona Caregiver Coalition provides financial aid and community resources to family caregivers across the state, providing care to loved ones living with a variety of chronic and acute conditions, including Alzheimer's and related dementias, developmental disability and more.
Autism Spectrum Therapies
Host: Autism Spectrum Therapies
Info: Autism Spectrum Therapies provides contemporary, play based ABA therapy to children. Services are tailored to the unique needs of your child with a family focused approach. We teach children how to enhance their communication and social skills, adapt to new routines and experiences, reduce behaviors that interfere with growth and learning, and succeed in school and life. Services are available in an AST learning center, in home, and community settings.
At Autism Spectrum Therapies, we are proud to offer a specialized diagnostic evaluation program led by licensed clinical psychologists with expertise in autism and related developmental differences. Our focused assessments are designed for children ages 18 months to 5 years and are available via telehealth or in-person at our clinics. Early diagnostic evaluations provide valuable insights into your child’s unique strengths and areas of need during critical developmental years.
Axis For Autism
Host: Axis For Autism
Info: Axis for Autism is an Arizona-based provider offering comprehensive autism diagnostic evaluations and ABA therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. Our team is committed to improving access to timely, high-quality care by reducing wait times and supporting families through every step of the process. With multiple locations, bilingual services, and a family-centered approach, we strive to ensure individuals receive the answers, resources, and support they need to thrive.
Bierman Autism Centers
Host: Bierman Autism Centers
Info: Bierman Autism Centers is a clinician-founded, clinician-led provider of play-based, evidence-driven autism therapy. Since 2006, Bierman has helped children build communication, self-advocacy, and independence through individualized ABA therapy, supported by speech and occupational therapy. Guided by a teaching hospital model, Bierman focuses on two core missions: delivering exceptional outcomes for children and developing highly skilled clinicians through mentorship, data-informed decision-making, and continuous learning. With center-based programs across multiple states, Bierman partners with families and communities to create progress and possibilities® for every child served.
Bista
Host: Bista
Info: Our mission is to empower individuals with special needs and developmental disabilities to develop the necessary skills to learn, work, and live successfully with independence and dignity
Circle City ABA
Host: Circle City ABA
Cortica
Host: Cortica
Info: Cortica is a physician-led organization offering personalized, evidence-based care for children with autism. Our Whole-Child approach integrates medical, behavioral, and therapeutic services under one roof. We offer our services in the center, the home and in the community. We have immediate openings for children 5 and under!
About Cortica’s Whole Child Autism Services
Our collaborative team of experts provides comprehensive care, including:
· Assessments and diagnostic tests with no wait times
· Cortica Jumpstart early intervention services for children 18 months to 5 years
· Medical care for autism’s co-occurring conditions
· Individual and group ABA therapy
· Developmental therapies, including speech-language, occupational, and music therapy
· Caregiver coaching
· Individual and family counseling
You can begin the enrollment process for your patients by using the Refer-a-patient link. The phone number for the
DES Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP)
Host: DES Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP)
Info: The Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP) is Arizona’s statewide interagency system of services and supports for families of infants and toddlers, birth through two years of age, with disabilities or developmental delays. AzEIP provides eligible children and their families access to services to enhance the capacity of families and caregivers to support the child’s development. It is an educational program under Part C of the IDEA. The AzEIP Service-Providing Agencies provide services throughout the state. Anyone can make a referral to apply for the program if a child under age 3 is suspected of having a significant developmental delay or disability. Ways to make a referral are available on the website des.az.gov/azeip.
Emily Taylor Estate & Special Needs Planning
Host: Emily Taylor Estate & Special Needs Planning
Goodwin Learning Academy
Host: Goodwin Learning Academy
Java Autism Services
Host: Java Autism Services
Info: At Java Autism Services, we recognize the complexities and challenges of people with autism spectrum disorder and utilize individualized, research-based techniques to create positive changes in behavior and skills. We work closely with clients to create meaningful and positive life changes and help individuals reach their fullest potential. We offer service at our ABA therapy clinic in Goodyear AZ with in-home ABA services offered throughout Maricopa County.
Kindness Evolves
Host: Kindness Evolves
Info: At Java Autism Services, we recognize the complexities and challenges of people with autism spectrum disorder and utilize individualized, research-based techniques to create positive changes in behavior and skills. We work closely with clients to create meaningful and positive life changes and help individuals reach their fullest potential. We offer service at our ABA therapy clinic in Goodyear AZ with in-home ABA services offered throughout Maricopa County.
KYO ABA
Host: KYO ABA
Info: Kyo offers child-centric ABA therapy services to children with autism in homes, schools, and the community. Their clinicians are expert at working with each family to create customized learning goals and an individualized plan to target the skills that are most meaningful to them. Kyo therapy sessions are guided by each child's unique interests. By incorporating their favorite activities, and by using a fun, quick pace of instruction, kids are engaged immediately, maximizing their learning. Kyo’s goal is to make every moment count for the children and families they serve. Learn more and enroll at kyocare.com.
Polaris Academy
Host: Polaris Academy
Info: Our mission for Polaris Academy is to EMPOWER parents and students by creating academic and social resources to NAVIGATE autistic and other neurodivergent children towards a more purposeful, independent, and fulfilling future.
Soar Autism Center
Host: Soar Autism Center
Victory Autism Academy
Host: Victory Autism Academy
Info: Provide students on the autism spectrum, a whole child education that will not only improve their quality of life but also prepare them for future success.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 10.00
