This groundbreaking event will be packed with valuable presentations, discussions, and networking opportunities for Black counselors and mental health professionals. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to connect with peers and earn continuing education credits (CEs). This event will provide a space for Black counselors to come together, share knowledge, and celebrate our achievements. 

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Arcelia "CC" Jackson

Dr. Jackson is a licensed professional counselor, ordained minister, and President of Mental Health America of Virginia (MHAV). She is a passionate mental health advocate known for her community outreach efforts and leadership at her nonprofit organization, CC & Friends. Her work focuses on breaking down stigma, fostering healing, and creating spaces for meaningful dialogue around mental health issues.

Here is a sample of the Topics & Presenters for the conference:

From Roots to Liberation: Community-Centered Healing Through a Bottom-Up Approach with EMDR
Presenter: Jacqui Johnson, LPC, ATR-BC, CCMHC, TMH-C, PMH-C
Explore how EMDR and somatic practices can be used to heal historical and racism-based trauma in Black communities.

The Dissection of Grief and Loss
Presenter: Michelle Crumbly, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CAGCS
Gain insight into culturally relevant approaches to grief therapy, DSM-5 TR updates, and assessment techniques for Black clients.

Integrating Afro-Indigenous Dreamwork and Oral Traditions into Mental Health Modalities
Presenters: Andrusa Lawson, BS; Aazim Lawson, BSW, MSW, LMSW; Sahlah Lawson Dubel, BS, MPH, PMP, CDP
Learn how traditional storytelling and dreamwork can enhance mental health interventions and deepen cultural connections.

Utilizing Assessment for Treatment Planning, Progress Monitoring, and Diagnostics: Implications for Therapists Who Serve Black Clients
Presenter: Tara M. Benn, Ed.D.
Address the historical biases in assessment tools and explore how to use rating scales effectively in diagnosis and treatment planning for Black clients.

"You Got Clients, But Who Got You?" Burnout Prevention and Managing Secondary Trauma for Counselors
Presenter: Artisa Mae Moten, MS, LMFT
Discover strategies for self-care, boundary setting, and preventing burnout while serving our community.

Earn up to 16 Continuing Education Credits (CEs)
Participate in a wide variety of educational sessions and expand your expertise.

Division Meetings
Opportunity for NABC Division leaders and member to meet face-to-face for their annual meetings.

Roundtable Discussions
Engage in deep discussions on key topics affecting the field of counseling and the Black community.

Special Events:

Thursday Evening - Alma Mater/D9 Representation

• Represent your alma mater or D9 organization with pride during this evening of connection and celebration.

• Celebrate Black counselors and the vital work we do at our semi-formal banquet. It will be a night to remember, filled with celebration and camaraderie.

 National Association of Black Counselors, Inc. has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7685. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. National Association of Black Counselors, Inc. is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.