The Autism Research Institute (ARI) convened a group of about 30 carefully selected physicians and scientists in Dallas in January, 1995, in order to share information and find DAN medical treatment options as quickly as possible. The participants, from the U.S. and Europe, represented the most advanced thinking by some of the best minds in the autism world. One major goal of the first DAN! (Defeat Autism Now!) Conference was to produce a document that could be used by physicians everywhere as a guide for the clinical assessment of autistic patients, leading to appropriate DAN treatment. The 244-page manual (most recently updated in early 2005) is titled "Biomedical Assessment Options for Children with Autism and Related Problems" (it is available from the Autism Research Institute). The original participants have been joined by many prominent clinicians and scientists and they continue to work together today toward the goal of finding effective DAN biomedical interventions and treatments.

At Thoughtful House Center for Children we do not regard psychotropic drugs as the best or only means of treating autistic patients. Autistic children are physically unwell, and when we treat their underlying health issues, their behavior improves and they lead happier lives.