3rd Annual Autism Educational Summit
About this Event
Register by September 25, 2026, to save 20% on your registration fee.
The 2026 Annual Autism Educational Summit Provider Day brings together some of the most respected experts in autism care for a dynamic, full-day conference dedicated to advancing the support of children on the autism spectrum.
Attendees will gain fresh, practical insights from esteemed clinicians presenting innovative, evidence-based approaches to supporting autistic youth. Community stakeholders will also contribute valuable perspectives to help healthcare professionals more effectively advocate for and empower the children and families they serve.
This Summit champions the power of active partnership, uniting autistic children, their families, and their healthcare, educational, and community-based teams around a shared commitment to better outcomes. Discussions will span the full continuum of care, including the benefits of early diagnosis, genetic insights, Medic*tion management, sensory and emotional regulation strategies, educational advocacy, and the transition into adulthood for adolescents with autism.
Through expert lectures and engaging panel discussions, attendees will explore the latest research alongside proven care management strategies, equipping clinicians with the tools needed for informed decision-making and best-practice patient care. This collaborative format is designed to spark meaningful connections and drive real change for pediatric autistic patients.
Our goal is for participants to leave with:
- A deeper understanding and acceptance of autism
- Awareness of available resources and support
- Practical tools to strengthen advocacy and care for children and their families
The Autism Educational Summit underscores the importance of active partnerships among children with autism, 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.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
Our goal is to improve the knowledge of clinicians, so they are better equipped to provide health care for autistic children including the provision of accommodations in the clinical setting.
Upon conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:
- Discuss evidence-based recommendations for genetic testing in autistic children.
- Apply strategies for advocating for autistic children in the school setting.
- Identify various strategies to support the sensory needs of autistic patients.
- Implement strategies to support autistic youth in their transition to adulthood.
INTENDED AUDIENCE
This course is designed for primary care providers, advanced practice providers, clinical and school nursing staff, psychologists, clinical research scientists, social workers, mental health therapists, rehabilitation service providers, students across these professions, and those wanting a better understanding of the presented clinical information.
VENUE
Phoenix Zoo
Neely Education & Events Center,
455 North Galvin Parkway
Phoenix, AZ 85008
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
GROUP 1: Physicians, psychologists, and PhD professions
GROUP 2: Advanced practice providers, nurses, social workers, therapists (OT/PT/SLP), allied health, and research associates.
GROUP 3: Students of these professions and community members.
STANDARD PRICING
Group 1: $120 In-Person
Group 2: $80 In-Person
Group 3: $40 In-Person
SEATING IS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY
The cost of registration includes: tuition, CME certificate, admission to the Phoenix Zoo as well as a light breakfast, lunch, snacks, refreshments during the meeting and Friday's networking reception. Net proceeds from this Summit will go to support Phoenix Children’s Autism Program Fund #1521.
The full fee is payable upon registration.
COURSE CREDITS
The 2026 Autism Educational Summit is an accredited program designed to enhance the practitioner’s knowledge in the importance of providing high-quality, holistic, and individualized health care for children with autism spectrum disorders.
ACCREDITATION/ COURSE CREDIT DESIGNATION STATEMENT
This activity is being planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME). An application is being submitted with The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson to provide Continuing Medical Education.
The University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
SUMMIT FACULTY
Esteemed clinicians will present evidence-based approaches to providing health care for autistic children. Additionally, stakeholders in the community will offer information to help families and healthcare professionals best advocate for and support children with autism.
Agenda
🕑: 08:00 AM
Registration and Exhibit Space Opens
🕑: 08:55 AM - 09:00 AM
Welcome & Introductions
Host: Dannah G. Raz, MD, MPH
🕑: 09:00 AM - 09:40 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
🕑: 09:40 AM - 10:20 AM
From Genes to Diagnosis: The Role of Genetics in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Host: Andrew Fazenbaker
🕑: 10:20 AM
Break
🕑: 10:30 AM - 11:10 AM
More Than Behavior: Understanding Regulation in Autism
Host: Sarah Cunningham, OT
🕑: 11:10 AM - 11:50 AM
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
🕑: 11:50 AM
Lunch
🕑: 12:50 PM - 01:50 PM
Keynote Presentation: A Different Way of Thinking
Host: Cody Clark
🕑: 01:50 PM
Break
🕑: 02:05 PM - 02:45 PM
Empowering Families and Clinicians: Advocacy for Autistic Youth in Schools
Host: Nicholas A. Tanner, PhD
🕑: 02:45 PM - 03:25 PM
The Road to Adulthood: Advocacy & Transition Planning for Adolescents with ASD
Host: Nicole Guysi
Info: Navigating the Transition: Advocacy Strategies for Adolescents with Autism Moving into Adulthood
🕑: 03:25 PM - 04:25 PM
Panel Discussion
Host: Kirsten McCombs
Info: Moderated by Dannah Raz, MD, MHP and Randi Phelps, PhD
🕑: 04:25 PM
Closing Remarks
🕑: 04:30 PM
Adjourn
🕑: 04:30 PM - 05:30 PM
Tracey and Greg Hemstreet Reception
🕑: 04:45 PM - 05:15 PM
Magic Show
Host: Cody Clark
Exhibtors
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
Action Behavior Centers
Host: Action Behavior Centers
Info: At Action Behavior Centers (ABC), we help children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) reach milestone moments. Compassionate care is at the heart of everything we do, and our highly trained clinicians deliver evidence-based applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy tailored to each child’s unique needs.
Our autism services include evaluation support, 1:1 individualized Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI), Family Guidance, and school readiness programs in hundreds of centers across the U.S. and because no family should have to wait for help, ABC offers immediate access to care.
Advanced Therapy Solutions
Host: Advanced Therapy Solutions
Info: "At Advanced Therapy Solutions, we believe every person deserves to have a great start in life. Our caring team of experienced and licensed Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, and other dedicated professionals helps individuals build the skills they need to overcome challenge. Services include:
Occupational therapy
Physical therapy
Speech and language therapy
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)
Numotion Mobility Custom Wheelchair Services"
Attain ABA
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.
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
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
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
Total Care ABA
Host: Total Care ABA
Info: Total Care ABA provides in-home and in-school ABA Therapy across Arizona, comprised of passionate individuals on a mission to make a real difference in the lives of those touched by autism and developmental disorders.
Our mission is crystal clear: we're here to empower individuals and families facing autism to live their best lives. We firmly believe that every person, no matter their unique journey, deserves a chance to shine, and we're dedicated to being the spark that lights up their path.
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 40.00 to USD 120.00
