Barbara FirestoneBarbara Firestone, PhD, is President, CEO and founder of The Help Group, the largest and most comprehensive nonprofit organization of its kind in the United States serving children with autism spectrum disorders and other special needs. Widelyrecognized for her leadership, vision, and innovation, Dr. Firestone was appointed Vice Chair of the California Legislative Blue Ribbon Commission on Autism, and The Help Group UCLA Autism Research Alliance was launched in conjunction with UCLA's Semel Institute. At state and national levels, she actively promotes autism awareness, early identification and intervention, and the expansion of education and treatment opportunities for children, adolescents, and young adults. Read More Read Less