Invitation to the 77th Annual ICA Conference: “Liberation Counseling: The Continuity of Care”

The Illinois Counseling Association (ICA) is excited to invite you to the 77th Annual ICA Conference, happening November 6–8, 2025, at the Renaissance Hotel in Northbrook, IL!

This year’s theme — “Liberation Counseling: The Continuity of Care” — calls future counselors like you to explore how our field is evolving into a coordinated ecosystem of care that uplifts communities, promotes liberation, and encourages collaboration across disciplines.


✨ What is ICA?
The Illinois Counseling Association is the leading professional organization for counselors across the state. As a student, ICA membership connects you to:

  • The latest licensure requirements and updates in state legislation

  • Affordable, on-demand trainings to build your skills before and after graduation

  • Opportunities to network with professionals, find mentors, and strengthen your resume

  • Statewide events, leadership opportunities, and advocacy work that puts you at the heart of change

If you haven’t joined ICA yet — now’s the perfect time to get connected!
👉 Learn more about ICA


💡 Why Should Students Attend?

🔹 Learn from Experts
Hear from dynamic presenters and practitioners shaping the future of counseling in Illinois. Get inspired by our keynote speaker, Dr. LaTonya Summers, in her bold message:
“We Got Next Now: Counselors Who Learn, Lead, and Liberate.”

🔹 Expand Beyond the Classroom
From the pre-conference panel on coordinated care to breakout sessions on clinical skills, cultural humility, and trauma-informed practice — you’ll gain insights that complement your coursework.

🔹 Build Your Professional Network
Meet other students, connect with supervisors, clinicians, and educators — and discover opportunities for internships, job leads, and mentorship.

🔹 Celebrate and Connect
Enjoy the ICA Awards Ceremony with complimentary appetizers — plus a free professional headshot to boost your resume and online profile!


🙌 Volunteer and Attend for Free!

Student volunteers are an essential part of our conference team! Here’s how it works:

  • You must be an ICA student member ($37.50/year). Sign up here if you’re not a member yet.

  • There’s a $10 deposit to secure your volunteer spot (refunded after your shift).

  • Once your shift is complete, you’re free to enjoy the rest of the conference — for free!

👉 Register to volunteer


For any questions, please reach out to ICA Association Director Kristin Carlson at ica@ilcounseling.org.

We can’t wait to learn, grow, and lead alongside you at this year’s ICA Conference — where the future of counseling is being reimagined.

See you there!

Illinois Counseling Association
PO Box 367, DeKalb, IL 60115
: (815) 787-8787  
Hours of Operation: M-F, 8am-4pm CST