What is the CCPA National Annual Conference?
- The CCPA National Annual Conference is one of Canada's leading professional development events for counselling therapists, psychotherapists, counsellors, researchers, educators, and students. Each year, the conference brings together participants from across Canada and internationally to engage in evidence informed learning, knowledge exchange, and professional networking that supports ethical, effective, and culturally responsive practice.
When and where is the 2026 conference taking place?
- The 2026 CCPA National Annual Conference will be held from May 29 to 31, 2026 at the Westin Nova Scotian in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
What is the conference schedule?
- The conference follows a three-day format:
- May 29, 2026, Pre Conference Workshops
- May 30 to 31, 2026, Main Conference Programing
What types of sessions are included in the conference?
- The conference typically includes a wide range of learning formats, including pre conference intensive workshops, keynote presentations, concurrent education sessions, poster presentations, panels, conversation cafes, and interactive sessions. Programming also includes culturally grounded and Indigenous forced learning opportunities, as well as exhibitor engagement and networking events.
Why can’t I select my sessions during registration?
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All conference sessions are open to registered attendees, and seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis according to room capacity. Because of this, you do not need to pre-select sessions during the registration process.
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This year, we will be launching a conference event app approximately two weeks prior to the event. The app will allow you to browse the full program and add the sessions you’re most interested in directly to your personal schedule. While adding sessions in the app does not reserve a seat, it is a helpful way to plan your time and stay organized throughout the conference.
We look forward to sharing more details about the app as we get closer to the event.
Is the conference eligible for continuing education credits?
- Yes. All sessions are pre-approved for continuing education credits, supporting ongoing professional competency and regulatory requirements.
Who should attend the conference?
- The conference is designed for counselling therapists, psychotherapists, counsellors, psychologists, social workers, researchers, educators, students, supervisors, and professionals working in mental health and related fields. It is also relevant for those involved in policy, leadership, and education within the counselling and psychotherapy landscape.
What learning themes can attendees expect?
- Conference content spans a broad range of professional topics, including emerging and established counselling and psychotherapy practices, clinical supervision, trauma informed and culturally responsive care, ethics and regulation, research and innovation, digital mental health, Indigenous healing knowledge, school counselling, career development, and youth mental health.
What are the registration options for the pre-conference workshops?
- Pre conference workshops take place on May 29, 2026, and are offered as half day or full day sessions. Pricing varies by membership status and registration period, including early bird and regular rates. These workshops are led by subject matter experts and provide in depth, focused learning opportunities.
What are the registration fees for the main conference?
- The main conference, held on May 30 and 31, 2026, offers early bird and regular registration rates for members, non-members, and student or retired attendees. Early registration is encouraged, as rates increase after the early bird deadline.
Where can I find the full program?
- The full conference program is currently under development and will be released closer to the event date. It will reflect the structure, quality, and professional standards outlined above.
Will there be networking opportunities?
- Yes. The conference offers multiple opportunities for networking and professional connection, including structured sessions, informal gatherings, exhibitor interactions, and engagement with CCPA leadership, Chapters, and Committees.
Is the conference suitable for grant or professional development funding applications?
- Yes. The CCPA National Annual Conference is widely recognized as a high-quality professional development event. This FAQ and the conference overview are often used to support grant, employer, or institutional funding applications.
What social activities are offered during the conference?
- The 2026 CCPA National Annual Conference includes a curated selection of optional social activities designed to showcase Nova Scotia while creating relaxed opportunities for connection. These activities include a guided visit to Peggy's Cove, a harbour sailing experience aboard a historic tall ship, and an evening social at a local Halifax brewery.
Are social activities included with conference registration?
- Social activities are ticketed separately from conference registration. This allows attendees to choose the experiences that best fit their interests and schedules. Details on pricing and registration will be available through the conference website.
What is the Peggy’s Cove Social Activity?
- The Peggy’s Cove Social Activity offers attendees the opportunity to visit one of Nova Scotia’s most iconic landmarks, Peggy’s Point Lighthouse. Participants will explore the dramatic coastal landscape, walk through the historic fishing village, and enjoy scenic viewpoints along the Atlantic shoreline. A boxed lunch is included, allowing time to relax and take in the surroundings during the visit.
What can I expect from the CCPA Sail and Social?
- The CCPA Sail and Social is a scenic cruise aboard Halifax’s signature tall ship, the three masted schooner Silva. This relaxed sailing experience offers panoramic views of the harbour, waterfront, and notable landmarks such as Georges Island and the Northwest Arm. While on board, attendees will enjoy a classic Halifax donair and receive a drink ticket for the onboard bar.
What is the Keith’s Brewery Social Activity?
- The Keith’s Brewery Social Activity is an informal evening gathering at a local brewery. The experience includes behind the scenes tours, shared light bites, music, and time to socialize across multiple rooms and levels. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, offering an easygoing way to unwind, connect, and enjoy Halifax’s local culture.
Are the social activities suitable for networking?
- Yes. While each activity offers a unique cultural or recreational experience, they are also designed to support meaningful connection and conversation. These settings provide a relaxed alternative to traditional networking environments and are ideal for building professional relationships.
Do I need to register in advance for social activities?
- Yes. Advance registration is required, as space for social activities is limited and subject to availability. Attendees are encouraged to register early to secure their preferred activities.
Who can I contact for more information?
- For additional details regarding registration, programming, or logistics, please visit the conference website or contact the CCPA conference team through the official contact information listed on the site.