From Proposal to Podium: What I Learned About Presenting at Professional Conferences

Dear Fellow Therapists,

There’s something empowering about walking into a room—badge on, nerves high, laptop in hand—ready to present your work to peers in your field. Last month, I had the honor of attending and presenting at my very first international conference. It was a deeply affirming experience, and one that reminded me why participating in conferences is so much more than checking a box or earning CEUs—it’s advocacy, it’s connection, and it’s growth.

If you’re a therapist, supervisor, student, or emerging researcher wondering how to get started, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to attend and present at a professional conference—from submitting your proposal to presentation day—plus the many unexpected benefits along the way.

Step 1: Finding the Right Conference for You

Professional conferences happen at state, national, and international levels throughout the year. Look for ones aligned with your field (e.g., counseling, psychology, social work), your specialization (e.g., trauma, multicultural counseling, family therapy), or your passion (e.g., advocacy, research, education).

Organizations like the American Counseling Association (ACA), American Psychological Association (APA), American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA), and many state chapters or niche organizations host annual gatherings.

Tip: If you're a student, ask your school about available funding or travel scholarships. Many institutions offer assistance for students accepted to present or volunteer.

Step 2: Submitting a Proposal

Conference proposals usually open 6–9 months in advance, and submission deadlines can sneak up quickly.

Common presentation formats include:

• Paper Presentation – Share research findings or a case study

• Poster Presentation – Visually display your research in a more informal setting

• Roundtable Discussion – Facilitate a conversation with a small group of attendees

• Panel Presentation – Present alongside others on a shared topic or theme

• Symposium – A coordinated set of papers or presentations on a central theme

Your proposal typically includes:

• A title

• Abstract or summary

• Learning objectives

• Relevance to the conference theme

• Your credentials

Don’t let imposter syndrome stop you—if your work has substance and heart, it’s worth sharing. I was nervous too when I submitted my first proposal, but I reminded myself that my voice—and yours—belongs in these spaces.

Step 3: Preparing Your Presentation

Once accepted, it’s go time! Here’s how I prepare:

• Outline your key points: Keep the presentation focused and digestible.

• Create clean visuals: A simple, well-designed PowerPoint or poster goes a long way.

• Practice your timing: Most sessions are time-limited, so rehearse!

• Know your audience: Are you speaking to clinicians, researchers, students, or community leaders? Tailor your language and examples accordingly.

• Anticipate questions: Prepare responses for key questions and feedback.

Presenting is a form of advocacy, especially when your work addresses marginalized voices, overlooked populations, or new perspectives. Even if you’re nervous (I definitely was), keep in mind that your story and your research can shift how people practice and think.

The Big Day: Presenting at the Conference

The day of your presentation can feel both exciting and nerve-wracking. Here’s what helped me:

• Arrive early and get comfortable with the room setup

• Connect with fellow presenters or panelists

• Stay grounded—deep breaths, water, affirmations

• Remember your purpose—you’re not performing; you’re educating and advocating

• Engage with your audience—make space for dialogue when possible

And afterward? Soak in the moment. You did it!

Unexpected Benefits of Attending Conferences

Besides presenting, conferences offer so much more:

• Networking: Meet professionals, potential collaborators, and mentors

• Exposure to new research and tools: Stay current with trends, evidence-based practices, and innovations

• Collaboration opportunities: Conferences are where future projects are born

• Resume/CV builder: Presenting boosts your professional portfolio

• Travel: Many conferences offer a chance to explore new cities—and even countries!

• Confidence & visibility: You’ll return home more empowered in your work

This year alone, I’ve already served as a conference panelist, presented at a Research Colloquium and lead roundtable presentation at an international conference, and I have one national, and one state-level conference lined up. Each has helped me grow not just professionally, but personally.

You Belong in the Room

If you’ve ever questioned whether your work is “good enough” for a conference, this is your sign: submit the proposal. Start with a roundtable or poster session if you're unsure. Reach out to mentors or colleagues for feedback. There is space for your voice in our profession—and often, it’s the voices that have been quieted the longest that are needed the most.

Let your passion, your research, and your lived experience be your guide. Presenting at a conference isn’t just about sharing knowledge, it’s about shaping the future of our field.

Let’s connect:Have a conference coming up or thinking of submitting a proposal? Drop a comment or message. I’d love to hear about your work or help support your journey.

Wishing you all wellness and growth,

Jinia