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Mindd International Forum 2026

April 30 - May 2, 2026
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The practitioner track is for practitioners, students and scientists with strong background in biology and biochemistry.

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Mindd International Forum 2026

April 30 - May 2, 2026
Pre-Register your interest for Mindd and MAPS Practitioner Training and enter the draw to win a FREE pass

The practitioner track is for practitioners, students and scientists with strong background in biology and biochemistry.

In -person attendance is required for practitioners wanting a listing @mindd.org or working towards MAPS accreditation.

* These fields are required to be eligible for a FREE pass to the Mindd Forum.

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Dr. Erin Taylor Hann

Chiropractor

I’m Dr. Erin Taylor Hann, a chiropractor who believes in the power of connection — both with ourselves and the world around us. My journey began in a home where disconnection was the norm, and that’s what I see in many families today. Parents of neurodivergent kids often feel lost, overwhelmed, and unsure of how to support their child’s nervous system. I’ve been there myself, and it’s why I’m so passionate about helping parents understand the deeper reasons behind their child’s behaviors.

I’m not here to give you quick fixes — I’m here to give you the tools and understanding to create calm, connected spaces where your child can thrive. Through a combination of chiropractic care, functional neurology, and brain-body integration, I empower families to decode their child’s needs and unlock the potential for growth, connection, and healing.

I believe every child deserves to feel safe and understood, and that begins with us — their parents and caregivers. Together, we can create a foundation for growth that is built on safety, compassion, and connection. I’m here to help you feel confident, supported, and connected, so you can be the parent your child needs — even on the hard days.

Community Talk: Beyond Behavior: Understanding the Hidden Brain-Body Disconnect in Neurodivergent Children

Overview: In this talk, Dr Erin Taylor Hann (DC) will guide parents and the community to see challenging behaviours in a new light – not as defiance, but as communication from a nervous system seeking safety. Through the lens of brain development, primitive reflexes and connection. She’’ll share a powerful story of hope and healing, offering practical tools and heartfelt encouragement to support neurodivergent children with compassion, understanding and love

Practitioner Talk: The Hidden Link: Primitive Reflexes and Their Role in Behavioural Dysregulation.

In this talk, we will dive into how primitive reflexes, when not fully integrated, can underpin common challenges like meltdowns, lack of focus, and sensory issues in neurodivergent child. Ill explain how these reflexes shape the brain and body’s development and how approaches like the Mellilo Method can support better regulation and learning outcomes.

Elly Smith

Nutritionist

Elly is a registered nutritionist with over 18 years of experience working within the health science industry in both private practice and compounding laboratories. She loves working with children, from infants to teens and adults and has a special interest in supporting gut health, strengthening immune function, and calming inflammation.

Darren Sassal

Naturopath

Presentation Overview:
The role of wellness technologies in ‘Biohacking’ complex
healthcare conditions
Where can you turn when ‘go to’ remedies and ‘best practice’ therapies are not
working as expected or offering limited results?
Nominated for cost, ease of use and compliance; we will explore a number of
devices and their potential in overcoming some of the key ‘roadblocks’ to health and
healing.
Learning Objectives:

  • Identify the key drivers of complex and chronic disease
  •  Highlight common cellular biological ‘roadblocks’ associated with these drivers
  • Explore how immerging technologies can offer targeted support to remove
    these blocks
  • And what may be expected from their use in influencing self-regulation and
    homeostatic balance.

 

Darren J Sassall ND, is the co-owner and director of Core Naturopathics, providing
an innovative and client centred approach to chronic disease and peak performance.
With qualifications in Sports Science (Wollongong University 1989) and Naturopathy
(Nature Care College 1997), Darren has over 35 years of experience in the health
and fitness industry. An Adjunct Professional Fellow in the National Centre for
Naturopathic Medicine Southern Cross University QLD, he is a pioneer in the field of
Adaptive Medicine and leader in integrating cutting-edge technologies, AI, and
functional screening methods into Naturopathic practice. With a deep focus on
assisting clients overcome the inertia of chronic disease, Darren has introduced

targeted therapeutic ‘stacking protocols’ into clinical practice to promote self-
regulation and reestablish homeostatic balance. Darren’s collaborative work with

business partner and industry leaders has advanced AI-driven clinic systems,
sustainable licensed clinical models, and product development, positioning him as an
innovator in modern naturopathic healthcare.

Francoise Nicoloff

Psychologist

Françoise, the founder and director of the Australian Tomatis® Method, is a renowned psychologist with over three decades’ experience in applying the Tomatis® Method around the world. Françoise was trained by Dr. Tomatis in the late 1970s, and since 1983 has been involved in the training of Tomatis® consultants in France, Spain, Italy, Japan, Australia, and, lately, the Philippines.

Charlie Arnott

Regenerative Farmer

Charlie, an award-winning grazier and passionate advocate for regenerative farming practices, has transformed his family’s 5,000-acre property in Boorowa, New South Wales, Australia, from a conventional high-input farm into a biodynamically principled, holistically managed farm in harmony with nature. Over the past 20 years, Charlie has embraced regenerative agriculture principles that align with his innate connection to the land and his commitment to producing quality food.

Hanaminno now operates using organic, biodynamic, and holistic grazing principles to produce chemical-free, pasture-raised beef, lamb, and pigs. Prioritising animal welfare and the health of both land and consumers, the farm prides itself on being “Certified by Community” – fostering transparency, openness, and strong connections with clients, who are considered co-producers.

Theanna Peters

Founder, The School Food Project

Theanna is a school food advocate, passionate about changing food in schools and feeding a brighter future. Theanna has a background in the arts, hospitality and health. When her kids started school, she gravitated to the canteen, using her skills as a chef and her qualification in naturopathy to help transition the menu and prepare tasty nutritious food on site, using quality fresh local ingredients. The community embraced it, and the success was proof that kids love real, nutritious food. In 2016 Theanna founded The School Food Project charity to mentor and empower schools to improve their food. The School Food Project Canteen Transformation Program DIY toolkit has been developed from a pilot in 6 NSW schools. In 2024, in a partnership with Berrima Public School, the innovative and equitable School Lunch Program was launched, where every child is fed every day a nutritious and delicious seated meal prepared by the school’s chef. Great school food and food education has the power to improve childhood health and happiness, and can reset a child’s relationship to food for life. 

Blair Beattie

Farmer

Passionate Jack of all Trades finding purpose in his regenerative story.

Having worked in many realms of business and activism, Blair’s true purpose is grounded in the advocacy of Regenerative Agriculture, manifesting itself as the director of  Farmer’s Footprint Australia.

With vast experience in food systems, native ingredients, and soil health, Blair’s knowledge in these fields is equaled by his passion for community, sovereignty, and his family. As he continues to learn, listen, stumble, and be humbled by his journey, his focus is to educate, empower and activate humans toward a regenerative life.

Presenter: Dr Christabelle Yeoh, MBBS, MRCP (London), MSc (Nutrition)

Creating Brain Energy for Neuroplasticity

Cognitive health is on everyone’s mind, with ADHD and cognitive decline rates being higher than it’s ever been. What does it mean to have good cognitive health? This talk focuses on the bioenergetic aspect of neuronal function which is the foundation to creating the behaviours and the plasticity that we want to see in our brains. It is imperative to learn about what blocks it and what makes it flourish!

  • Understand what the important components of brain health are

  • Learn about the underlying drivers for neuroplasticity- mitochondrial bioenergetics and activation 
  • Create a map to sustain the factors which help, and minimise the factors which hinder neuroplasticity

Presenter: Dr Christabelle Yeoh, MBBS, MRCP (London), MSc (Nutrition)

Mitochondria- the Biophysics of Health Creation

Mitochondria are much more than the popular description: ‘powerhouses of the cell’. Mitochondria are transducers which means they convert one form of energy into another form. Chemiosmosis, a fundamental biological process housed by mitochondria (and chloroplasts) are driven by quantum mechanics principles. Understanding these allow patients and practitioners to harness the desperately needed bioenergetics to successfully drive the biochemistry protocols that we prescribe. It is foundational to health creation.

  • Evolutionary biology as the foundation for mitochondrial quantum principles
  • Metabolism: redox and cellular bioenergetics
  • Mitochondrial medicine: past, present, future approaches
  • Epigenetics: through heteroplasmy and mito genetics 

Presenter: Elyse Comerford, Nutritionist

Meat Stock – The Golden Elixir!

Bone broth gets a lot of attention (for good reason), but have you been focussing on meat stock? Elyse will take us through the do’s and dont’s of making the most important healing food for gut and connective tissue repair, how to include it in your diet (it doesn’t just have to be soup!), and how to get it in for even the fussiest eaters. Elyse will also take us through the cases where meat stock is better for healing than bone broth, and share some stories of healing from her clinic, ‘Well Belly Health Clinic’.

  • How meat stock functions as a healing food

  • How to make the most effective (and tasty!) meat stock

  • How to include meat stock in your current diet

  • Including meat stock for fussy eaters

  • Real life stories of the benefits of meat stock

Elyse Comerford

Nutritionist

Elyse Comerford is an Integrative Nutritionist and Certified GAPS Practitioner, Keynote Speaker, Mentor, and most importantly, Mum to Dylan & Bowie! Elyse’s primary focus for the past decade has been in private practice, helping hundreds of families overcome a whole host of health issues through the implementation of nourishing and healing principles, reducing toxic stress, and the GAPS protocol. This has become Elyse’s specialty, and has led her to work with families all over the world becoming well known for her specialisation in complex chronic health conditions. It has been a culmination of her education and experience in Nutrition, but most importantly her experience with her own healing journey that has driven her passion to empower as many people as possible with the key to their own health. Elyse’s approach is based on taking the normal “guilt, blame, shame and deprivation” approach and completely turning it on its head, focussing instead on healing, nourishing, and listening to the body at a deep root cause level.

Brittany Darling

Nutritionist

Brittany Darling is a mum and nutritionist, with over 15 years of clinical experience. Frustrated by the lack of truly effective children’s supplements, she set out to create targeted, science-backed formulations that address specific health concern facing children today. Her multi-award winning supplement brand, I’m Nutrients is purpose led, providing only targeted formulations minus the junk.

Presenter: Liz Mumper, MD FAAP, FMAPS

Case Study in Immune Injury

Dr. Mumper will deconstruct the history of a difficult patient with baseline mold toxicity who worsened after he received a mRNA COVID vaccine.  She will demonstrate the value of constructing a timeline to identify antecedents, triggers and mediators to lead to therapeutic strategies. She will examine lab evaluation of mold toxicity and resources for treatment protocols. Dr. Mumper will look at the pathology associated with spike protein and potential ways to help those suffering from prolonged spike exposure or adverse reactions to COVID vaccines. 

  • To use timelines to organize history considering antecedents, triggers and mediators

  • To interpret labs to diagnose

  • To find resources for a step-wise treatment strategy 

  • To develop treatment strategies for people who regress after mRNA COVID vaccination

Presenter: Nancy O’Hara, MD, MPH, FAAP

A Functional Medicine Guide on Microbes & Mental Health

PANS & PANDAS are complex autoimmune diseases that require a multi-system approach. PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Strep) involves antibodies from a strep infection reacting with brain tissue (specifically the basal ganglia in the brain) and triggering an abrupt onset of immune dysregulation and movement, learning and behavioral problems including OCD, anxiety and tics. With PANS (Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome), other infectious etiologies besides strep (especially Mycoplasma as well as COVID, viruses, other bacteria, and more), toxic exposures, and metabolic abnormalities are among other potential triggers for the immune dysregulation resulting in an abnormal autoimmune reaction and negative behavior, neuropsychiatric, and cognitive changes.  Dr. O’Hara will discuss the latest research in the assessment and treatment of these devastating but recoverable illnesses.  Participants will learn the research-based functional medicine approach to the care, diagnosis and treatment of these children.

  • The participant will be able to understand the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of PANS, PANDAS and Post Acute Infectious Syndromes (PAIS).

  • The participant will be able to differentiate causes of anxiety, OCD and tics, as it relates to autoimmune encephalitis.

  • The participant will be able to define the triad of treatments for PANS, PANDAS & PAIS.

Presenter: Presenter: Liz Mumper, MD FAAP, FMAPS

Kids and COVID

When COVID first emerged, everyone was confused – doctors, parents, patients,
government officials, and agency workers. However, it emerged rather quickly that COVID was
not a mortal threat for healthy children and adolescents. Nor were children with COVID a
transmission threat to immuno-compromised patients or vulnerable elderly. Dr. Mumper will
share her perspective, derived from four years of COVID research and collaboration, on how
different strategies should have been adopted during the first year of the crisis. She will argue
that mandates were never a good idea, that critical analysis of the initial clinical trials would
have led to different decisions, and that what the public was told differed from emerging
scientific truth.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

  • Parents will understand the concept of stratified risk, in this case by looking at age as a
    risk factor. In COVID, the risk for children was miniscule.
  • Parents will learn how to make risk benefit decisions for their children. How significant
    was the risk associated with in-person schooling during the COVID-19 pandemic? How
    risky were the shots?
  • Parents will be able to identify propaganda in health messaging and value trusted professionals in the context of collaborative relationships as a source of information.
  • Parents will appreciate the value of truly informed consent in any medical intervention.

Presenter: Liz Mumper, MD FAAP, FMAPS

Kids & COVID

COVID in healthy children and adolescents was very different than COVID in sick
adults with multiple co-morbidities. Dr. Mumper will argue that a “one size fits all” strategy
focused on a novel gene therapy technology was misguided. She will review the data about risk
factors, early treatment and potential repurposed medications. She will outline the fallacies
inherent in testing and isolating people without symptoms and review the limitations of PCR
testing.
The vaccine “safe and effective” mantra is not nuanced enough to describe what really
happened during roll-outs of COVID injections. Dr. Mumper will critically analyse evidence that
the shots were not studied for and did not decrease transmission, that those who received
injections were more likely to get COVID multiple times, and that more adverse events were
reported than for other vaccines combined. She will share documentation of adverse events in
the following categories: cardiac, autoimmune, reproduction, cancer, and neurologic.
Clinicians may leave the lecture pondering such topics as the autonomy of healers, the role of
truly informed consent, and the insertion of politics into medical crises.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

  • Clinicians will evaluate the timeline of emerging evidence about the need to stratify risk
    in those with COVID.
  •  Attendees will learn about the value of early treatment and using repurposed
    medications early in the pandemic.
  •  Audience members will explore the pitfalls of testing people without symptoms and using
    PCR testing for isolation decisions.
  • Attendees will get a quick tour through the data of the original trials, with a focus on the conflation of relative and absolute risk and the misrepresentation of the mRNA products as stopping transmission.
  • Clinicians will evaluate the evidence for five categories of COVID injection adverse events that have potential to be life changing.
  • Clinicians will be asked to reflect on their changing perspectives during the COVID crisis and how they will prepare to act during the next real or perceived crisis.

Presenter: Nancy O’Hara, MD, MPH, FAAP, FMAPS

Tick-Borne Diseases, Mold & MCAS

PANS & PANDAS are complex autoimmune diseases that require a multi-system approach. With PANS (Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome), infectious etiologies such as Borrelia, Bartonella and Babesia, are among potential triggers for the immune dysregulation resulting in an abnormal autoimmune reaction and negative behavior, physical, and cognitive changes.  Tick-Borne Diseases and Mold may cause or contribute to an acute or subacute presentation of fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, OCD, tics and more.  These symptoms need to be assessed and treated appropriately. Participants will learn the research-based functional medicine approach to the care, diagnosis and treatment of these children. She will present this informaiton in a case study format.

  • The participant will be able to understand the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of PANS and Basal Ganglia Encephalitis, especially as it relates to Borrelia, Bartonella and Babesia

  • The participant will be able to differentiate causes of anxiety, OCD and tics, as it relates to autoimmune encephalitis caused by Tick-Borne Diseases and Mold.

  • The participant will be able to define the triad of treatments for PANS, including antimicrobials, immune modulators and symptom supports for Tick-Borne Diseases and Mold.

  • something on MCAS 

Presenter: Nancy O’Hara, MD, MPH, FAAP, FMAPS

Post Acute Infectious Syndromes & Mast Cell Activation Syndrome

PANS & PANDAS are complex autoimmune diseases that require a multi-system approach. PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Strep) involves antibodies from a strep infection reacting with brain tissue (specifically the basal ganglia in the brain) and triggering an abrupt onset of immune dysregulation and movement, learning and behavioral problems including OCD, anxiety and tics. With PANS (Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome), other infectious etiologies besides strep (especially Mycoplasma as well as COVID, viruses, other bacteria, and more), toxic exposures, and metabolic abnormalities are among other potential triggers for the immune dysregulation resulting in an abnormal autoimmune reaction and negative behavior, neuropsychiatric, and cognitive changes. Dr. O’Hara will discuss the latest research in the assessment and treatment of these devastating but recoverable illnesses. Participants will learn the research-based functional medicine approach to the care, diagnosis and treatment of these children.

  • The participant will be able to understand the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of PANS, PANDAS and Post Acute Infectious Syndromes (PAIS).
  • The participant will be able to differentiate causes of anxiety, OCD and tics, as it relates to autoimmune encephalitis caused by PAIS
  • The participant will be able to define the triad of treatments for PANS, PANDAS & PAIS.
  • something on MCAS and PAIS

Presenter: Dr Kelly Francis MBBS. BSci (Med). FRACGP (2006)

Healthy Home

Our physical environment can have an enormous impact on our health and wellbeing.  Dr Kelly Francis will present to you all the potential hazards you can be exposed to under your own roof, and ways you can mitigate the dangers. 

Learning Objectives:

  • EMF’s: what are they, where are they, and what can you do about them?
  • Water: what should we be drinking, what do the various filtration devices actually filter, what on earth is hydrogen water and more!
  • Light: explanation of the different waveforms of light, what is good for us, when it is good for us, and what to avoid.
  • Air: discussion on airborne toxins, what to look for, how to test, and what measures we can take to improve our home’s air quality.
  • Toxins in the kitchen: what we cook with and cook on, wrap our food with, store our food in, our kitchen appliances- are they safe?  What can we do to make our kitchens safe?
  • Toxins on the body:  what we use on our skin- is it safe?  What can we use instead?
  • Toxins in the garden:  if you are growing your own vegetables, are you doing it safely?
  • Toxins in the bedroom:  We spend 1/3 of our lives in our beds- is your bedroom toxic?  Learn about ways to improve the health of your bedroom!
  • Cleaning products: Learn some healthier options to clean your home with, eliminating a potential major source of household toxins.

Presenter: Soulla Chamberlain

The Fundamentals of Robust Nutrition (from Vegan to Omnivore)

In this presentation Soulla will focus on the key principles of a nutrient-dense diet which provides a solid foundation for a life-long sustainable health. While health is multifactorial (and directly influenced by numerous lifestyle factors), nourishing your body with the anti-inflammatory, nutritionally-dense whole foods that we as a species have biologically evolved to eat is the cornerstone (as well as the fastest and easiest way!) of reclaiming and maintaining spectacular health with the most profound impact. Food is the most powerful medicine available to us to heal chronic illness and to remain vibrantly healthy. Soulla will detail the most nutrient dense foods and well as how to source and prepare them.

Learning Objectives in bullet point format
Attendees will learn the fundamentals of robust nutrition including a brief overview of:

  • The findings of Weston A Price
  • What are the most nutrient dense wholefoods
  • The importance of sourcing, processing and correct preparation of our foods
  • Debunking popular dietary myths  
  • The benefits of eating of an omnivorous traditional wholefoods diet versus modern industrialised diet

 

Soulla Chamberlain

Health Coach

Soulla is a cooking instructor specialising in real & traditional foods, a health coach, an advocate and teacher of toxic free living, a public speaker, a wellness blogger, a lover of the sun and sea, and a mother! Her mission started with bringing nutrient-dense traditional wholefoods back to the modern table for vibrant health and longevity and has grown into empowering people to live a vibrantly healthy life in all areas of their life but focusing first and foremost with the food, personal care products, cleaning products and medicines that people choose to bring into their home. Soulla has been instrumental in pioneering a traditional wholefoods and holistic lifestyle movement across Australia and further afield over the past 2 decades. She is a passionate spokesperson on food as medicine and provides people with the tools and resources to swap out dietary and environmental toxins in their home in a positive and empowering way. Small changes, big impact. It was her first hand experience as a burnt out corporate lawyer and former ‘hard core’ vegetarian/vegan that was the catalyst to seek an alternative approach to heal herself and her family.

Presenter: Helen Padarin

The Language of The Nervous System – a primal and somatic approach to healing.

Food, lifestyle and our environment all play fundamental roles in our state of health, the functioning of our physiology and our cell danger response.  To move from the absolutely necessary defence-physiology of the Cell Danger Response, to the healing physiology of the Healing Cycle we need energy and resources.  This is why food, lifestyle and environment are so key to our state of health.  We also need to remove the threat.  Another often-missed threat resolution that is required for the Healing Cycle to function however, is to resolve (most often subconscious) states of threat to survival.   Fortunately by learning to understand the somatic (felt) language of our nervous system, we can start to interpret the messages of what we (and our loved ones) truly need in order to regulate, comfort and heal. By doing this, all other choices we make around food, lifestyle, environment and even medications and biohacking devices will have a much greater beneficial impact. Perceived or real threats to our survival are imprinted by our infant years (and can occur later in life, a result of traumas).  Without understanding or somatic tools to be able to resolve or discharge these imprints, they leave us living in a chronic survival state of sympathetic dominance, AKA fight or flight mode.   This survival response stimulates the cell danger response, and elicits a cascade of neurological, immunological and endocrine consequences that result in inflammation, autoimmunity and an array of chronic disease.   It is in fact, often unbeknownst to us, the driving factor behind most chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and illness.  Fortunately by learning to understand the somatic (felt) language of our nervous system, we can start to interpret the messages of what we (and our loved ones) truly need in order to regulate, comfort and heal. By doing this, all other choices we make around food, lifestyle, environment and even medications and biohacking devices will have a much greater beneficial impact.

Presenter: Dr Charlie Teo

CONNECTOMICS: a paradigm shift in the diagnosis and management of all brain disorders.

Connectomics is the evolving understanding of the human brain. In 2009, the US government dedicated millions of dollars and thousands of scientific man-hours to try and improve our understanding of what has been called “the last frontier”. In 2016 this huge body of work was distilled in a single article published in NATURE by Glasser et al. However, applying this knowledge to clinical practice was impossible until a team of the brightest minds worked together to develop an app that could be used to assess the one organ that had previously never been visualised or quantified, the brain. CT and MRI scans give advanced images of how the brain looks but tell nothing of how it is working. If you examine the MRI of a patient with schizophrenia, it is structurally normal, and yet the patient’s behaviour is far from normal.  This newfound knowledge has been utilised to treat patients with structurally normal conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, CTE, addiction etc. This presentation will explain the mechanism behind transcranial magnetic stimulation and give exciting examples of patient benefits and how the future is bright for all patients with any brain disorder.

Presenter: Dr James Neunschwander

Cases in Environmental Toxicants and Their Impact on the Endocrine System

Many environmental toxins/toxicants have adverse impact on the endocrine.  Given the explosion of endocrine driven pediatric illness including precocious puberty, polycystic ovarian syndrome, type II diabetes, and obesity.

Presenter: Dr James Neunschwander

Cases In Mold Toxicity

This presentation will discuss the importance of identifying patients with mold toxicity, the impact of that mold toxicity on overall health, and the steps to take to resolve these issues.  These principles will be illustrated with case reviews

Presenter: Sheridan Austin

Reducing Chronic Illness in Children Through Prenatal Care

Reducing chronic disease in children begins with prenatal health and preconception care. Among other factors, a healthy genome is created and influenced primarily through nutrients — vitamins, and minerals. We know that what and how we eat affects both maternal and offspring outcomes, but why are more people not doing something about it? We are seeing chronic disease dramatically rise, as is the intake of highly processed non-nutritive foods – this is no coincidence. We are seeing more and more birth defects, neurological presentations, early onset metabolic disease and inflammatory disorders, and yet our current nutritional health and prenatal information is outdated and often incorrect or misleading – also not a coincidence. If we continue to neglect parental preconception care and neglect truly nourishing the mother, how can we expect our children to turn out okay? Our current system is failing our mothers and families, let’s talk about what needs to change.

Presenter: Dr James Neunschwander

Getting That Gut Feeling: The Microbiome, Immune Response, and Pediatric Health

The make-up of the gut microbiome has become front and center in the pursuit of pediatric health. In this presentation, we will review how the pediatric microbiome is created, how it impacts the immune response, and how disruption of this response lies behind many pediatric disorders. We will also discuss how to evaluate the microbiome, how to manipulate the microbiome, and how to maintain a healthy microbiome.

Presenter: Helen Padarin

The Language of The Nervous System – a primal and somatic approach to healing.

Food, lifestyle and our environment all play fundamental roles in our state of health, the functioning of our physiology and our cell danger response.  To move from the absolutely necessary defence-physiology of the Cell Danger Response, to the healing physiology of the Healing Cycle we need energy and resources.  This is why food, lifestyle and environment are so key to our state of health.  We also need to remove the threat.  Another often-missed threat resolution that is required for the Healing Cycle to function however, is to resolve (most often subconscious) states of threat to survival.   Fortunately by learning to understand the somatic (felt) language of our nervous system, we can start to interpret the messages of what we (and our loved ones) truly need in order to regulate, comfort and heal. By doing this, all other choices we make around food, lifestyle, environment and even medications and biohacking devices will have a much greater beneficial impact. Perceived or real threats to our survival are imprinted by our infant years (and can occur later in life, a result of traumas).  Without understanding or somatic tools to be able to resolve or discharge these imprints, they leave us living in a chronic survival state of sympathetic dominance, AKA fight or flight mode.   This survival response stimulates the cell danger response, and elicits a cascade of neurological, immunological and endocrine consequences that result in inflammation, autoimmunity and an array of chronic disease.   It is in fact, often unbeknownst to us, the driving factor behind most chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and illness.  Fortunately by learning to understand the somatic (felt) language of our nervous system, we can start to interpret the messages of what we (and our loved ones) truly need in order to regulate, comfort and heal. By doing this, all other choices we make around food, lifestyle, environment and even medications and biohacking devices will have a much greater beneficial impact.

Presenter: Cyndi O’Meara

Regenerative Living – Anthropological and Vitalistic Principles

I’ve been a nutritionist for 44 years and a farmer for the past decade.  The two go hand in hand.  We cannot trust the food that is being served up by most of the grocery stores.  Synthetic biology is the new catch phrase for ultra processed foods and, if you knew what it was, you may think twice about consuming it.  We either start growing our own food or support our burgeoning local small regenerative farmers.  The great thing about growing your own food is you not only have a wonderful supply of nutrient-dense food, but you are contributing to improving your health thanks to how sunlight, clean air, rich soil and fresh food contribute to human health in a myriad of ways.  I’ve lived from an anthropological and vitalistic approach my whole life and I’m noticing that by living by these two guiding principles, science gradually catches up to nature.  I will be walking you through these incredible principles and how they can help you find the health you so deserve.

Presenter: James Neuenschwander, MD, ABIM/AAPS, ABIHM, BCEM/AAPS, FMAPS

The Foundations of Biomedical Thinking

This presentation examines the differences in thought processes between the biomedical approach and the standard medical model. Dr. Neuenschwander emphasizes understanding systemic interconnectedness and the importance of reframing clinical questions to improve patient management.

Presenter: Liz Mumper, MD, FAAP, FMAPS

Foundations of Metabolic and Mitochondrial Dysfunction: How These Systems Affect Our Brains

Dr. Mumper discusses metabolic abnormalities like mitochondrial dysfunction and CFD, which may lead to reversible autism symptoms if treated early. The presentation reviews biomarkers, diagnostic methods, and treatment approaches that improve outcomes in ASD.

Presenter: Nancy O’Hara, MD, MPH, FAAP, FMAPS

Foundations of Neurology: Our Brains on Fire

Dr. O’Hara provides an in-depth analysis of autism, emphasizing neurological localization for diagnosis. She explores the roles of different brain regions in autism presentations and examines the interplay between autism and epilepsy. The session offers insights into improving diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Presenter: Nancy O’Hara, MD, MPH, FAAP, FMAPS

Foundations of Immune Dysfunction: Why Are Our Kids So Sick?

This presentation examines the increasing incidence of chronic illnesses in children, focusing on immune and neurological dysfunction. It explores the normal functioning of the immune system, the pathophysiology of inflammatory changes, and immune dysregulation in conditions such as Lyme disease, PANS, and PANDAS. The session emphasizes the need for restoring immunocompetence to achieve effective recovery.

Presenter: Liz Mumper, MD, FAAP, FMAPS

Foundation of Gastrointestinal Dysfunction: Mind the Gut

Dr. Mumper explores the roles of prebiotics, probiotics, and biofilms in gastrointestinal health. She emphasizes the importance of a balanced gut microbiome in preventing and managing conditions like allergies, autoimmune diseases, and mental health challenges. Strategies for addressing dysbiosis and biofilms are discussed to maintain optimal gut health and overall well-being.

Presenter: Nancy O’Hara, MD, MPH, FAAP, FMAPS

The Foundation of a Functional Medicine Approach: How to Interpret the Signs, Symptoms, and Lab Testing

Dr. Nancy O’Hara discusses the signs, symptoms, and laboratory tests relevant when evaluating children with ASD or other chronic illnesses. She explains how to use history, physical examinations, and preliminary lab tests to identify the root causes of gastrointestinal, metabolic, mitochondrial, and immunologic disorders in these patients.

Presenter: Liz Mumper, MD, FAAP, FMAPS

The Foundation of Nutrition: You Are What You Eat

In this presentation, Dr. Mumper highlights the critical role of nutrition in managing neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, ADHD, and anxiety. The session examines the impact of diet on brain function, the gut microbiome, and overall health. Emphasis is placed on personalized nutrition approaches tailored to individual needs, therapeutic diets, and the adverse effects of unhealthy food choices. The importance of an organic, nutrient-dense diet is underscored, along with evidence-based strategies for implementing dietary changes that improve health outcomes.

Presenter: James Neuenschwander, MD, ABIM/AAPS, ABIHM, BCEM/AAPS, FMAPS

Setting the Stage: Prenatal & Perinatal Foundations

This lecture focuses on preconception and perinatal concepts that increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders and influence the rates of chronic illness in children. Topics include research on immune activation and autoimmunity, the gut microbiome, toxin exposure, and the health of the endocrine system, including thyroid disorders and medication risks during pregnancy.

Presenter: Dr Leah Hechtman (PhD)

Maternal Imprint; Shaping Health, Brain Development, and Humanity’s Future

Explore the profound influence of maternal RNA, microchimerism, and methylation in shaping the next generation’s health and brain development. Delve into the connections between the microbiome, emotional development, and trauma patterning, revealing how we co-create life and rewire chronic illness for future generations.

Sheridan Austin

Nutritionist, GAPS

 I’m Sheridan Joy Austin, and I am a speaker, nutrition consultant, recipe creator and writer. I am a qualified holistic Nutritionist and a certified Gut and Psychology Syndrome (GAPS) practitioner, whereby I use food as medicine to support health and vitality. I was conditioned to believe that my symptoms were normal. Sinus infections, digestive issues, chest infections, asthma, hay fever, rashes, extreme fatigue, a foggy mind and so on. I lived off antihistamines, asthma puffers and antibiotics. I have always had a deep fascination, love and interest for food, but I wasn’t sure why and what to think of it while I consistently exposed myself to man-made, packaged and processed foods. This interest led me to becoming a Qualified Nutritionist and a Gut and Psychology Syndrome Practitioner. Through further constant personal research I have since freed myself from many of the symptoms that were robbing me of a life filled with energy, vitality, confidence and excitement.

Cyndi O’Meara

Nutritionist, Farmer

Cyndi O’Meara is a leading nutritionist, filmmaker, best-selling author, TEDx Speaker and Founder of Changing Habits, The Changing Habits Farm, The Nutrition Academy and co-founder of The Packing Company. Her greatest love is to teach, both in the public and corporate arenas to educate people on making better nutritional and environmental choices. Her direct and down-to-earth delivery of extensively researched information challenges and encourages others to question and eliminate unhealthy habits while purposefully choosing what goes in their body.

Matt Bourke

Chiropractor

Matthew is the founder, director and principal clinician at Optimum Health Essentials, an integrative natural health clinic that has been established on the Northern Beaches of Sydney for over 20 years. Matthew is a keynote speaker, personal health coach and mindset consultant, founder and facilitator of Optimum Health Essentials Detox Retreats in Byron Bay, and has been on the Mindd Foundation Practitioner Advisory Board since 2008, and has presented at multiple Mindd conferences. Matthew specialises in Chiropractic, Applied Kinesiology, Neuro Emotional Technique, Neurolinguistic Programming (Master Practitioner), Positive Psychology, Peak Performance, Functional Biochemistry and Breath Work. He has worked in Europe and Australia and studied Vedic philosophy and meditation in Australia and India.

Dr Kelly Francis

Dr Kelly Francis MBBS. BSci (Med). FRACGP (2006)


Dr Kelly Francis is a passionate Functional Medicine Practitioner and health advocate based on the Gold Coast, Queensland. She completed her medical degree at The University of NSW in 1998 and completed her formal GP training in 2006. She previously owned an Integrative GP clinic on the Gold Coast called Happiness in Health which she closed in 2023. She has recently founded and launched an on-line functional medicine clinic called Revolution Healthcare, offering services to all Australians via the on-line platform.

Presenter: Heather Way, PhD

Using Nutrigenomics to Treat Complex Chronic Conditions and Improve Immunity

Dr Way will share her findings on the genes associated with complex chronic health disorders including depression, mold illness and PANDAS with a special emphasis on long Covid. There will be a deep dive into immunity, inflammation, oxidative stress and detoxification pathways and how they affect these chronic health conditions. The natural interventions that have been scientifically proven to favorably modulate genes expression will be discussed.

Presenter: Frank Golik, MBBS, FRACGP, FACNEM

Autism and Chronic Illness

Autism rates in “anglo” countries are epidemic, impacting roughly 1 in 36 children in the US, 1 in 63 in Australia and 1 in 100 in the United Kingdom. ADHD, Allergies, Asthma, Anxiety, Depression, Heart disease, Diabetes and Cancer are also affecting children in these countries at alarming rates.  Identifying common underlying biological and physiological problems is essential to offering effective therapies for children and adults.  And understanding cultural influencers such as diet, environment, lifestyle and healthcare policy is key to future prevention.

Presenter: James Neuenschwander, MD, ABIM/AAPS, ABIHM, BCEM/AAPS, FMAPS

Title of Talk:Cases in Metabolism

Abstract:

Many of the children I see have issues with mitochondrial function and metabolism. Whether it be a genetic somatic mutation or a mitochondrial dysfunction induced by malnutrition or toxicity. In this presentation, we will review a few cases illustration these issues and show how some of the interventions can lead to improvement in function even in the most severe cases.

Presenter: James Neuenschwander, MD, ABIM/AAPS, ABIHM, BCEM/AAPS, FMAPS

Biochemical Basis of the Integrative Approach

This whirlwind presentation will cover the biochemistry that underlies the integrative/biomedical approach. We will cover the methylation pathways and how they connect to sulfation and detoxification. We also look at the details for the gut-brain- immune triad and the impact of gut health on the entirety of health. We will dive into mitochondrial, its impact on cell signaling, and the importance of the cell danger response. We will look at the chemistry of membrane lipids and foundations of the type and balance of the fats that make up our membranes. Finally, we will look at the impact of toxins on the function of our kids’ physiology. For those of you with a firm grasp of biochemistry, this is a great review, and you will learn something new. For those of you that are new to the integrative approach, this will give you an idea of everything you will learn in our fellowship. By the time we are done, you will have a firm grasp of the biochemical basis of the biomedical approach.

Dr Christabelle Yeoh

MBBS, MRCP (London), MSc (Nutrition)

Dr Christabelle Yeoh has over 2 decades of experience in clinical care, most of which has focused on understanding root causes of chronic disease. She works with her patients to optimise their biophysical health, mitochondrial health, digestive function microbiome and brain performance. She is passionate about sharing her in-depth knowledge on the interconnectedness of human metabolism, biology and behaviour. She helps address the chronic conditions that can be related to adverse factors in her patient’s lifestyle, nutrition and environment to help optimise their overall function and wellbeing. Dr Yeoh graduated from medicine at the University of London in 1999 and obtained her membership with the Royal College of Physicians (UK). She has a Masters degree in Nutrition from King’s College London. After practicing hospital medicine, she worked as a general physician with an interest in Nutritional and Environmental Medicine. She was a director and past president at the Australasian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine (ACNEM) and is active on the teaching faculty.

Heather Way, PhD

Nutrigenomics

Dr Heather Way completed her PhD in molecular pathology and Master’s qualification in molecular physiology at the University of Queensland in Australia. Dr Way is in the unique position of being an Autism researcher, Clinician and Autism Mum (to two fully recovered, now adult sons). It was the diagnosis of ASD and ADHD for her sons that led her to repurpose her skill set to the field of autism genomics research 14 years ago. Dr Way is the Founder, Director, and Head of Research for The Australian Centre for Genomic Analysis (TACGA). The centre specialises in genomics solutions for autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, gut issues, and chronic infections including mold and PANS/PANDAS. Dr Way has helped to develop IBS and ASD microbiome sequencing tools, and neurodevelopmental nutrigenomic tools. These help to pinpoint the most serious issues and deliver targeted research-based interventions to help people with chronic conditions reach their full potential.

Dr Charlie Teo

AM, Neurosurgeon

Charlie Teo is an Australian neurosurgeon who is respected for his willingness to offer surgery to those who have been given no hope. He has had appointments in Australia, the USA, India, Vietnam and Singapore. As passionate about teaching as performing surgery, Charlie has been awarded Best Teacher awards in both the USA and Australia and devotes 3 months of every year instructing and doing live surgery pro bono in developing countries. He established a fellowship program that attracts over 600 applicants every year and has taught and mentored neurosurgeons from many of the leading universities world-wide such as Karolinska, Johns Hopkins, Stanford, Duke, Yale and Harvard Universities and the Barrow Neurological Institute. Dr Teo was honoured with the Order of Australia in 2011 for his pioneering efforts in the development of minimally invasive techniques in neurosurgery, in 2012 when he was invited to give the Australia Day Address to the Nation and in 2013 when he was the first non-politician Australian to address the US Congress on the need for more funding for brain cancer research. Professor Teo was named the Most Trusted Person in Australia for 7 consecutive years.

Helen Padarin, ND

Naturopath

Helen Padarin is a Naturopath, nutritionist and medical herbalist who has been in clinical practice since 2001. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Health Sciences (Naturopathy), advanced diplomas in nutrition, herbal medicine and has completed extensive post-graduate training in treatment for metabolic, neurologic, digestive and immune disorders and Somatic Experiencing. 

For over 23 years, Helen has been one of Australasia’s leading experts in the revolution of holistic health driven by real food. Helen is passionate about conscious living, vital health and empowering individuals, families and organisations to find the joy in being well.  She gains constant inspiration from seeing clients make conscious changes to their physical health to find that it also benefits their emotional, mental and spiritual wellbeing as well. 

Through her clinic, books and online courses, she has inspired patients, parents, health professionals, community groups and thought leaders by promoting a truly holistic approach to health and in doing so creating a supportive community.

Helen is a member of the Mindd Foundation Advisory Board as well as a Mindd Foundation ambassador.

Leah Hechtman, PhD

PhD, MSciMed (RHHG), BHSci (Nat), Nat, FNHAA

Dr Leah Hechtman (PhD) is a globally respected naturopathic clinician specialising in fertility, pregnancy, and comprehensive reproductive health. She is a passionate researcher, published author, and dedicated educator, sharing her insights and expertise through lectures, events, and programs.

With a commitment to bridging science and spirituality, Dr Hechtman (PhD) takes a collaborative approach to care, working closely with general practitioners, specialists, and other healthcare professionals. Her inter-professional focus fosters innovation and connection, ensuring holistic and integrative outcomes for her patients and advancing the field of reproductive health.

Dr. Frank Golik

MBBS (Hons QLD) FRACGP, FACNEM

Dr Golik’s special areas of interest and passion are Autism, ASD, ADHD, Musculoskeletal medicine, Dietary and lifestyle therapy, the Gut-Microbiome-Immune-Brain Interconnection, Streptococcal infections, Thyroid conditions, and the Metabolic Syndrome. Dr Golik is passionate about improving the health and wellbeing of children of any age. MBBS (Hons QLD) FRACGP, FACNEM graduated from University of Queensland with 2nd class Hons in 1975; 2 years junior RMO at Royal Brisbane Hospital; 1 year as senior RMO at Atherton Hospital, Nth Qld. Dr Golik commenced in solo Private Family Practice at Clayfield, Brisbane in 1979. Dr Golik gained his fellowship in the RACGP in 1982; and is a Fellow and occasional lecturer of the Australasian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine. He is the first Australian doctor to complete the MedMAPS (USA) training and qualify for its Fellowship.

Dr Liz Mumper

MD, FAAP, IFMCP

Dr. Elizabeth Mumper, MD, FAAP, IFMCP, is a seasoned pediatrician with several decades of experience in clinical practice and medical education. Dr. Mumper’s extensive clinical experience includes over a decade as Director of Pediatric Education in a Family Practice Residency Program, 16 years as clinical faculty at the University of Virginia, and five years as Medical Director of the Autism Research Institute. Her dedication to pediatric education extends to her current role on the faculty of the Medical Academy for Pediatric Special Needs (MAPS), where she developed the first advanced clinical training in pediatrics for the Institute of Functional Medicine, of which she is also a certified member. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Mumper has contributed to the medical field through writing book chapters, publishing her clinical research from the Rimland Center in peer-reviewed journals, and lecturing both nationally and internationally. Her commitment to pediatric health and education has made significant impacts in the field, providing invaluable resources and knowledge to both medical professionals and parents. She is the originator of FLCCC’s I-CARE: For Kids treatment guide, which aids parents in preventing and managing COVID-19 in their children. Dr Mumper is also a founding member of the Mindd Advisory Board.

Dr. Neuenschwander

MD, ABIM/AAPS, ABIHM, BCEM/AAPS, FMAPS

Dr. Neuenschwander (a.k.a. Dr. Neu) has been practicing integrative medicine since 1988. He is the owner of Bio Energy Medical Center, a multidisciplinary, integrative medical practice with the philosophy of treating illness at its source using whatever tools are available.
Dr. Neu is a graduate of the University of Michigan Medical School and is board certified in Emergency Medicine, Integrative and Holistic Medicine, as well as Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine. In addition, he is a Fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M) as well as holds a certification in chelation therapy. He is a member of A4M, ACAM, and ILADS. He has been a DAN! Practitioner since 2007, a member of MAPS since its founding, and a MAPS fellow since 2014.

Nancy O'Hara

MD, MPH, FAAP

Dr. Nancy O’Hara is a board certified Pediatrician. Prior to her medical career, Dr. O’Hara taught children with autism. She graduated with highest honors from Bryn Mawr College and as a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. She earned a Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Pittsburgh. After residency, chief residency and general pediatric fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. O’ Hara entered general private practice in 1993, and in 1998 began her consultative, integrative practice solely for children with special needs. Since 1999 she has dedicated her functional medicine practice to the integrative and holistic care of children with chronic illness and neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD, PANDAS/PANS, OCD, Lyme and ASD. She is also a leader in the training of clinicians, both in the United States and abroad. Dr. O’Hara has written a comprehensive guidebook, “Demystifying PANS / PANDAS: A Functional Medicine Desktop Reference on Basal Ganglia Encephalitis”, which is available on Amazon in e-book or soft-cover formats. For more information on her membership and mentoring program, please visit www.drohara.com. Additionally, Dr. O’Hara’s research on Folate Receptor Auto Antibodies and PANS/PANDAS was recently published. (https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14020166)

Dr O’Hara is a founding member of the Mindd Advisory Board.

MIF2025 Session:
-Demystifying PANS/PANDAS: A Functional Medicine Guide to Basal Ganglia Encephalitis