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Welcome
 So glad you are here for the American Art Therapy Association 41st Annual Conference! More than 900 of your colleagues and others interested in this growing, creative and dynamic field are with us for the next several days to explore a mindful awareness of “best practices” in art therapy, network with professional art therapists from around the world, and renew ourselves through re-creation and connection.
We’ve added something new this year, the Marketplace of Ideas where you can meet your friends from other states and countries, visit top notch master’s degree program educators, and get to know new services to help in your practice. Listen to experts in advocacy, marketing and career development in The Marquee Theater while you enjoy food from a variety of affordable Sacramento restaurants. The American Art Therapy Association booth, the cyber café and the Chapter networking roundtables are all front and center. Remember to shop for interesting jewelry and crafts at the Arts & Crafts Market Place …..Also conveniently in the Marketplace of Ideas. Hope I’ll see you there.
In a time when everyone worldwide is being challenged by economic realities, conflict and trauma, limited local budgets that reduce healthcare and education, and mounting everyday stressors, art therapy must rise to meet the resulting needs. As art therapy expands within the public perception and its effect as a treatment modality gains greater exposure, it is timely that the Strategic Plan Committee reports at the Annual Business Meeting on the key Strategic Plan directions developed by members, Committees, Chapters, and the Board.
Our profession uniquely has the ability to bridge pressures and find an inner strength by helping others connect to their visual selves. This year’s Annual Conference workshops, courses and special events developed by experts in the field, have all been designed to help us grow in our profession.
I’m looking forward to learning and connecting with you during the conference. Be sure to say hello and introduce yourself, I’m convinced that our success depends on meaningful connections we make with each other to join forces in bringing art therapy to more people worldwide. And thanks for coming!
Joan Phillips Ph.D., ATR-BC-LMFT, LPC
President
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