Overview

The 2025 conference theme is “Innovating CBT for diverse minds, needs, and peoples”.

Cognitive and behavioural therapies (CBT) continue to evolve to meet the needs of diverse communities, identities, and lived experiences. From the unique challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, trans and gender-diverse, and neurodivergent individuals, to those navigating complex physical, psychological, or social-relational conditions, our field must innovate to ensure CBT remains inclusive, effective, and relevant.

This year’s conference will showcase high-quality, cutting-edge research and clinical practice that pushes the boundaries of traditional CBT while remaining grounded in evidence-based principles. We will explore how adaptations in formulation, intervention, and service delivery can enhance accessibility and effectiveness across diverse cultures, demographics, and conditions. Whether you work in research, clinical practice, or educational settings, this is an opportunity to engage with leading experts, share best practices, and shape the future of CBT.

Join us at the conference to connect, learn, and contribute to a growing movement of innovation and inclusivity in cognitive and behavioural therapies.

What can I expect at #AACBT25?

• Two days of scientific program, with presentations from leading researchers and practitioners
• Discussions on current topics related to the cognitive and behavioural families
• A Master Clinician session, included in scientific program ticket
• Opportunities to network with your peers
• Up-to-date information in CBT
• Awards, recognitions, and special events

We begin with two days of scientific program, followed by optional workshops on Saturday 18 October 2025:

• Dr Judith S Beck - Recovery-Oriented CBT (AM)
• Professor Liz Pellicano - Neurodiversity (PM)

Both optional workshop choices are 1/2-day, and can choose to attend either or both sessions. Lunch is included for delegates attending both workshops.

Workshop pricing:

• AACBT student members $75
• AACBT members from $220
• Non-members $350

Learning Outcomes

Expand your understanding of contemporary issues facing CBT practitioners - be face-to-face with, and learn from some the best CBT researchers and clinicians in the world.

Presenter(s)

Our in-person keynote speakers:
* Judith S. Beck
* Pat Dudgeon
* Liz Pellicano

Our invited speakers:
* Nicole Lee
* Yael Perry
* Lauren Breen
* Vance Locke

Plus 2-days of scientific program

About the presenter(s)

* Judith S Beck is an international leader in the application of CBT for complex clinical problems in the real world. Her capacity to integrate the relational and skills-based aspects of CBT is a must-see for new and experienced clinicians alike.

* Pat Dudgeon is one of the most highly respected Australian academics in the field of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social and Emotional Wellbeing. She will be sharing her insights on how CBT therapists can work effectively with Indigenous people.

* Liz Pellicano’s work is recognised internationally as being at the forefront of understanding the strengths and challenges faced in everyday life by autistic children, young people and adults. Come along to hear her keynote address about how you can better cater for neurodiverse clients’ needs in your practice.

* Nicole Lee is an international leader in the field of alcohol and other drugs, with her work impacting on important areas of policy and practice.

* Yael Perry’s research in the gender diversity space is internationally renowned and is as important at this time in history as ever before. Yael’s plenary talk is an opportunity to better understand the lived experience of gender diverse clients and how healthcare workers can better support their mental health and wellbeing.

* Lauren is an international leader in childhood grief and we are fortunate to have her presenting.

* Vance will be presenting his highly regarded masterclass on Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Come and learn from an expert in FND about what treatments work and how to implement them.

Website/s

https://www.aacbt.org.au/aacbt-national-conferences/2025/