Treatment Approach to Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome
My approach to the treatment of a patient with autism or asperger’s syndrome is to first test for nutrient deficiencies and genetic weaknesses and then design an individualized nutrient plan based on the results. In addition, I look at the gastrointestinal tract through blood, urine, and stool testing to make sure that nutrients are being absorbed and that infections are not present. I also frequently look at genomics testing to see where a particular patient's weakness lies. I try to move all of my patients to a more nutrient dense diet and also work on other health problems such as allergies, asthma, eczema, frequent infections, sleep problems, and constipation. Patients see me every two to three months until we have achieved the response that we want. After that patients see me every six to twelve months.
For my autism and asperger’s patients, I also want them in intensive behavioral intervention. I try to make their brains and bodies healthier so that they can get the maximal benefit from their behavioral programs.
I like for parents to be well informed and to be partners in the treatment plan. I have trained with the Institute for Functional Medicine, the Walsh Research Institute and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health. Click on the names of these organization to take you to their web sites which have information on integrative treatments that I have incorporated into the treatment plans for my patients.