YAI Network autism experts presented on cutting-edge developments in autism research and treatment at a conference presented by the Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Titled “New Insights in the Etiology, Diagnosis, Neurobiology, Genetics and Treatment of Autism,” the conference brought together an array of specialists to educate psychiatrists, neurologists, other professionals and family members.

The April 11 conference was just the latest collaboration in the five-year partnership between the YAI Network and the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. The two organizations have a variety of initiatives, including a medical Autism Fellowship, to continually advance the expertise and services of each. Additionally, the Seaver Center’s Director, Joseph Buxbaum, PhD, sits on the YAI Network’s Autism Advisory Council.

Peter Della Bella, MD, Director of Clinical Programs at Premier HealthCare, and Charles Cartwright, MD, Director of the YAI Autism Center, presented as part of a panel on “Current Trends in the Pharmacological Treatment of Autism.” Dr. Della Bella spoke on treating aggression and impulse control disorders, including the recent FDA approval of aripiprazole for treating irritability in autism; Dr. Cartwright addressed cutting-edge research on the newest of pharmacologic approaches, including the use of oxytocin and n-acetylcysteine.

“Our joint workshop with psychiatrists from the Seaver Center addressed advances in psychopharmacology and brought in a large group of professionals and parents,” Dr. Della Bella said. “This conference continued to build upon the strong relationship the YAI Network, including the YAI Autism Center and Premier HealthCare, has with the Seaver Center.”

“The Seaver Center and the YAI Network are both committed to providing the highest quality of evidence-based assessment and treatment for people with ASDs,” Dr. Cartwright said. “Directly involving families in the service delivery is a top priority.”

Carol Stein-Schulman, MSEd., BCABA, Assistant Director of Education and Training at YAI, addressed “Best Practices in the Education of Children with Autism” as part of a panel. “I spoke to medical professionals, parents, teachers and other service providers on evidence-based techniques in an education setting,” said Carol. “The New York League for Early Learning, a member of the YAI Network, was cited as a model for early intervention and preschool education.”