Welcome, Attendees!
We’re so glad you’re joining us at EMDRIA Conference 2026. Whether this is your first conference or your 30th, this guide will help you feel prepared, confident and ready to connect. We thank you for being part of our EMDRIA community.
What to Expect
A Welcoming Community
At EMDRIA™, our community standards are simple: we are a welcoming community. Please bring your kindness, openness and collegial spirit. Introduce yourself, invite others into conversation and help create a supportive space for everyone.
A Full (but Flexible) Schedule
From keynotes to evening events, there’s a lot to experience at EMDRIA Conference 2026. Give yourself permission to recharge when needed, and prioritize the sessions and experiences that matter most to you.
Opportunities to Connect
From receptions to coffee breaks, you’ll find plenty of chances to meet colleagues and build meaningful connections.
Plan Your Experience
This guide is organized to walk you through each stage of your conference experience—from preparing before you arrive to following up after the event.
1.
Before You Go
Plan ahead, download the app and make sure you’re ready to go.
2.
When You Arrive
Check-in details, what to expect onsite and how to get oriented.
3.
During the Event
Everything you need to navigate sessions, CEs and daily logistics.
4.
After the Event
Claim your CEs, access materials and stay connected.
1. Before You Go
Book Your Hotel & Travel
After you register, be sure to reserve your hotel room early to secure conference rates and arrange your travel.* Visit the Hotel & Travel page for hotel booking links, airport information, and important travel details.
*The special hotel rate is available until July 24 or until the block sells out.
Download the App
Our official conference app will be your hub for schedules, announcements, networking, maps, and more. Be sure to download the app and create your account before the event so you're ready to engage.
Plan Your Sessions
Browse sessions, build your personalized agenda, and bookmark favorites directly in the conference app.
Share Your Excitement
Let your colleagues and professional community know you'll be joining us in Anaheim! Download the social graphics below to share your excitement, connect with fellow attendees, and spread the word on your favorite social platforms.
Start Packing
Conference days are long and active, so prioritize comfort, layers, hydration and anything that helps you recharge between sessions. Here are a few items attendees often find helpful to bring:
Clothing
- Business casual is the recommended attire—professional, comfortable and conference-ready.
- Layering pieces. Conference rooms can be chilly.
- Comfortable walking shoes. You will be on your feet more than you think.
- Evening outfit (optional). For the Welcome Reception, Awards Reception, or dinners with colleagues.
Technology & Learning Tools
- Laptop or tablet or notebook. For taking notes and staying connected.
- Chargers for all devices. Or a portable power back for more flexibility. A power strip could be a bonus for sharing outlets.
- Business cards or networking materials
- A journal for reflection or processing
Comfort Items
- Refillable water bottle. There are refilling stations near the restrooms.
- Snacks. Such as granola bar or trail mix for long days.
- Breath mints/gum
- Lip balm and hand lotion (hotels can be dry)
- Medication, pain reliever or allergy essentials (especially if you're not used to the locale)
Conferences can be energizing and inspiring, but they can also be overstimulating. Consider bringing any comfort, grounding, or sensory-support items that help you feel regulated and at your best throughout the event.
2. When You Arrive
Check-In & Badge Pick-Up
Stop by the check-in desk, pick up your conference badge and complementary tote bag.
- Location: Platinum Ballroom Foyer
- Hours: Wed. (early check-in): 3–6 p.m., Thurs.–Sat.: 7 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Find Your Way
Take a little time to explore the hotel and conference center before your schedule gets busy. Knowing the layout can make the experience feel much more manageable and relaxing. There will also be a venue map in the conference app.
Exhibit Hall: Marquis Ballroom
Gender Neutral Restrooms: Located near South Marquis Ballroom Foyer.
Sensory/Lactation Room: Gold Room III (please knock before entering).
Hours: Fri.–Sat., 8 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sun., 8 a.m.–3 p.m.
This room is reserved for sensory needs and lactation. Please help us keep it available for those purposes by not using it for meetings or other activities.
Join Wi-Fi
Stay connected throughout the conference by joining the complimentary conference Wi-Fi. Internet access is available in meeting rooms and conference spaces to help you use the conference app, access session materials, and stay in touch.
- Network: emdria2026
- Password: emdriamatters
Take Care of Yourself and Others
If you are feeling ill or experiencing symptoms of a contagious illness, we ask that you make the responsible choice to rest and avoid attending conference activities until you are feeling better.
To help support attendees with sensitivities, allergies, asthma, migraines, or other health concerns, we also encourage guests to avoid wearing heavily scented fragrances during the conference whenever possible.
If you requested accommodations or support during registration, conference staff will work to help ensure those arrangements are in place onsite. If additional needs arise during the event, please visit the information desk for assistance.
3. During the Event
Wear Your Badge
Your conference badge is your access pass for sessions, events, and conference spaces. Please wear it at all times while participating in conference activities.
Earn CE Credits
We are doing scanning a bit differently this year!
If you are attending to earn continuing education (CE) credits, you must scan in and out of every session to track your attendance.
New this year: You will no longer pass by a tablet and scan on your way into the room. Session check-in and check-out are completed using QR codes displayed in the session room.
At the beginning of the session: Enter the room, find your seat, and scan the QR code displayed on the presentation screen to check in.
At the end of the session: Again, a QR code will be displayed on the presentation screen. Scan it to check out before leaving the room.
If you are unable to scan the QR code with your phone, visit the Check-In Desk for assistance.
Remember: to receive CE credit, you must attend the entire session.
Enjoy Food & Refreshments
- Coffee and light refreshments will be available in the exhibit hall during the mornings.
- Lunch is not provided. We encourage attendees to plan ahead and explore nearby dining options during midday breaks. The hotel offers several dining options, but they may become busy during peak break times.
- Conference receptions will include light hors d’oeuvres and cash bars.
- Find nearby restaurants in the “Local Recommendations” section of the app or ask the hotel for a map. The Visit Anaheim website offers some suggestions and local coupons.
Find a Seat
Please arrive early to secure your seat. Adding a session to your agenda does not guarantee you a seat. Once a session reaches room capacity, additional attendees cannot be admitted in accordance with fire marshal occupancy limits and for the safety of all participants. If a session is full, please select another session from the conference schedule.
Seats throughout the venue marked with "Reserved" signs are designated for individuals with accessibility needs. Please do not move or use these seats unless you have requested accessibility support.
Find Lost Items
Rooms will be cleared between sessions, so do not leave items behind. Lost an item? Check the info desk or the hotel front desk.
Attend Special Events
Community Meet-Ups. Make the most of your midday break by joining a meet-up. These informal gatherings are a great way to connect with colleagues who share your interests, explore special topics, and meet new friends. Bring your own lunch. Details in the app.
Welcome Reception. Kick off the conference by connecting with colleagues, enjoying light hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar.
Awards Reception. Celebrate the outstanding contributions of the EMDR community at the Awards Reception on Saturday evening. Join us as we recognize colleagues whose leadership, innovation, and service have advanced EMDR therapy.
Enjoy light refreshments, a cash bar, and a lively atmosphere with a DJ playing throughout the evening. We've extended the reception until 8:00 p.m., giving you more time to celebrate, connect with colleagues, and hit the dance floor if the mood strikes!
Support the EMDRIA Foundation
Help advance EMDR research and community initiatives by supporting the EMDRIA Foundation.
Donate. Make a donation during the conference to support the Foundation's work. Give $100 or mor and receive an EMDRIA Cares thank-you gift.
Visit the Silent Auction. Stop by the Silent Auction next to the EMDRIA Foundation booth in the Exhibit Hall to bid on unique items. Every winning bid helps fund the Foundation's mission.
The EMDRIA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
4. After the Event
Receive Your CEs
CE certificates will be emailed in early September (be sure to check your inbox and spam folder).
Share Your Feedback
- After each session, a brief session survey will be available in the app.
- Following the event, you’ll also receive a post-event survey.
- Your feedback helps shape future events. We appreciate you taking the time to share it.
Save Session Materials
Session handouts, slides, and other resources are available in the conference app for a limited time. Download any materials you would like to keep for future reference.
- Open the conference app.
- Select Agenda, then choose a session.
- Tap the available Handouts, Bibliographies, or Additional Resources to view or download them.
Printed handouts: EMDRIA does not provide printed handouts, helping reduce paper waste and support our sustainability efforts. If you prefer printed copies, please download and print the materials you need before or during the conference. Some speakers may choose to provide printed handouts for educational purposes.
Stay Connected
- Follow up with your new connections on LinkedIn or email.
- Continue conversations started during the conference
Continue Your Learning
- Check out the spring EMDRIA Virtual Summit
- Save the date for the upcoming conferences
- Become an EMDRIA™ member, if you aren’t already
Final Thoughts
This conference is for you! Engage at your own pace, ask questions, and know that every handshake, conversation, and session is an opportunity to grow. We’re thrilled to have you here!