ATRA in Action: Strengthening Connection, Advancing Our Profession

2026 ATRA Annual Conference – Session Descriptions

October 17–19, 2026 | Brea, CA

The following session descriptions represent the planned educational program for the 2026 ATRA Annual Conference in Brea, CA. While every effort has been made to provide accurate information, session content, presenters, schedules, and locations remain subject to change.

For a visual Calendar view, please visit: Schedule at a Glance

Continuing Education (CEUs):
NCTRC pre-approval is pending for all sessions for CEUs.

Code of Conduct:
All attendees, speakers, exhibitors, and guests are expected to uphold the ATRA Conference Code of Conduct.
To review the Code, view it here.

Note on Non-ATRA Activities:

Please note that any events or activities not listed in the official ATRA SoCal program are independently organized and not affiliated or sponsored by ATRA. ATRA is not responsible for independently coordinated events, meetups or activities not articulated in this program. Individuals interested in non-ATRA sponsored activities should contact their respective organizations directly for details.

Session Description

Connection doesn't happen by accident. It is built through leadership, advocacy, collaboration, and a shared commitment to advancing recreational therapy. As the profession gathers around this year's conference theme, The Connection Rx: Prescribing Belonging Through Recreational Therapy, this session explores how ATRA strengthens the connections that move our profession forward. Hear updates from ATRA's leadership on the work accomplished over the past year, the financial health of the association, and the priorities that will shape the year ahead. More importantly, discover how these efforts create meaningful opportunities for recreational therapists, strengthen our profession, and expand our collective impact on the individuals and communities we serve. Whether you are a longtime member or attending your first conference, you'll leave with a clearer understanding of where ATRA is headed, why that work matters, and how your own involvement helps shape the future of recreational therapy.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to: Explain how ATRA's work over the past year has created value for recreational therapists, the profession, and the individuals and communities they serve. Summarize ATRA's financial health and strategic priorities and describe how they position the association for continued impact. Identify opportunities to strengthen the profession through active engagement with ATRA's programs, advocacy efforts, and volunteer leadership.

ATRA SoCal : 2026 Session Description

October 17–19, 2026

The Embassy Suites, Brea, California

2026 ATRA Annual Conference – Session Descriptions