Join us for AATA2026, AATA’s annual in-person art therapy conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, October 14 - 17, 2026.
This year’s theme, Rooted and Rising, honors the foundational principles, research, and education that ground our profession. And it celebrates art therapy as an innovative, forward-thinking field that continues to grow and evolve. The logo is also a nod to Charlotte’s urban tree canopy and in particular, its willow oaks.
Our vision for the conference is to bring the art therapy community together for world-class Continuing Education programming, art-making experientials, networking events, and more. Whether you’re a long-time practitioner, educator, researcher, student, or related mental health professional, you belong at AATA2026!
Conference Program Highlights [view the AATA2026 Schedule-at-a-Glance]
- Wednesday, Oct 14 | Full-Day and Half-Day Advanced Practice Courses
- Wednesday evening, Oct 14 | Opening Reception: Wednesday evening, Oct 14
- Thursday, Oct. 15 – Saturday, Oct. 17 | Core Program Days
- Continuing Education sessions, including “paper” presentations, panels, videos, and plenaries, daily plenary sessions, Open Art Studio, Arts and Crafts Marketplace, Exhibit Hall, Author Tables + more!
- Saturday evening, Oct. 17 | Closing Party