Conferences simply don't get better than this. Rich clinical content, outstanding attendees and networking opportunities, and all in an exquisite setting. It is hands-down my favorite conference of the year."
Available Dates
May 28 - 30, 2026 | Palm Springs, CA
The West Coast’s Most Talked About Event in Behavioral Health
The West Coast’s Most Talked About Event in Behavioral Health
West Coast Symposium
Empowering Change, Encouraging Connection, Embracing Recovery
Now in its 17th year, the West Coast Symposium stands as a premier gathering for addiction treatment and behavioral health professionals nationwide. Guided by leading experts, this conference delivers cutting-edge education, innovative strategies, and actionable insights—equipping you to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of our field.
Over 3 impactful days, you’ll:
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Unite with passionate peers in the shared mission to advance recovery.
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Gain insights from top national leaders shaping the future of treatment.
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Explore innovative strategies to address today’s most critical challenges.
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Expand your professional network within a community committed to change.
Together, we’ll strengthen our collective fight against addiction—because in unity, there is strength.
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1600+Attendees
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35+National Expert Speakers
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25+Educational Sessions
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20+CME/CE Credits
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- 2023 Attendee -
This is such a nourishing way to connect with others that work in treatment and are passionate about recovery and new modalities. Great topics, insightful speakers and a relaxing venue."
- 2025 Attendee -
The West Coast Symposium was incredibly valuable. I gained insights into top resources in the field, reconnected with current colleagues, and met new ones. The topics covered were diverse and thought-provoking. I will definitely be attending again!"
- 2024 Attendee
2026 Keynote Speakers
Proud Partner
Bringing You Advanced Education & Connections, Coast to Coast
Take your journey further—join us at our other Symposia and keep the momentum going.
Cape Cod Symposium
August 6–9, 2026 | Providence, RI
The Cape Cod Symposium is temporarily docking in Providence due to renovations at our longtime venue. Make the 'Rhode' trip with us for some summer fun and the same powerful education and community you know and love!
East Coast Symposium
October 9-11, 2026 | West Palm Beach, FL
Join us in closing out the 2026 season with our East Coast Symposium in it's new South Florida home. Located downtown adjacent to CityPlace shopping and dining, two miles from the Palm Beach waterfront. Enjoy resort-style pool and cabanas, restaurants, live music, fitness classes, and lawn games.
Who Should Attend?
West Coast Symposium is designed and accredited for professionals in the fields of addiction and behavioral health, including counselors, therapists, interventionists, social workers, business development representatives, treatment center executives, and others with cause for commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions About WCS
What you need to know about the West Coast Symposium on Addictive Disorders.
What-you-need-to-know-about-the-West-Coast-Symposium-on-Addictive-Disorders.-
- What is the West Coast Symposium on Addictive Disorders?
The West Coast Symposium on Addictive Disorders (WCSAD) is a premier addiction and behavioral health conference held annually in California. It brings together clinicians, counselors, and treatment professionals for practical clinical education, CE/CME credit hours, and meaningful peer networking, all in a focused, retreat-style environment. WCSAD is part of the trusted HMP Global Symposium series with nearly four decades of leadership in addiction education.
- Where is the West Coast Symposium on Addictive Disorders held?
WCSAD takes place at the La Quinta Resort & Club in La Quinta, California, celebrating its 100th anniversary. An iconic destination setting that supports both focused learning and professional connection. The resort environment is intentional: it creates the conditions for deeper engagement, peer relationships, and professional renewal that a standard convention center cannot replicate.
- 3 How many CE/CME credits can I earn at WCSAD?
Attendees can earn 20 or more CE/CME credits at the West Coast Symposium on Addictive Disorders, covering addiction counseling, co-occurring disorder treatment, psychotherapy, and related behavioral health disciplines. Credits support licensure renewal for LCSWs, LMFTs, psychologists, physicians, and addiction counselors.
- What types of professionals attend WCSAD?
WCSAD attracts a cross-disciplinary audience of therapists, licensed addiction counselors, social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, physicians, and behavioral health administrators from across the United States, with a strong concentration of California-based clinicians. Whether you are early in your career or a seasoned clinical leader, WCSAD offers programming calibrated to your level.
- Why should I attend WCSAD instead of another addiction conference?
WCSAD combines nationally recognized clinical faculty with a resort environment that encourages genuine professional connection, not just another conference room experience. The retreat-style setting, curated programming, and strong community of returning attendees make it uniquely suited for clinicians seeking immersive skill-building alongside lasting peer relationships. Attendees consistently report that the relationships formed at WCSAD are as valuable as the clinical content itself.
- What clinical topics are covered at the West Coast Symposium?
WCSAD sessions address evidence-based addiction treatment, co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, family systems approaches, and emerging research in behavioral health. Sessions are designed to be immediately applicable in clinical practice.
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