Kennesaw State University’s Counseling and Psychological Services in partnership with the Center for Young Adult Addiction and Recovery will be hosting a two-day conference focused on young adult mental and behavioral health. This conference is designed for mental and behavioral health professionals, social workers, case managers, educators, and community health advocates to deepen their understanding of the unique developmental, social, and psychological challenges facing young adults today. This event offers an interdisciplinary space to explore evidence-based practices, emerging trends, and innovative strategies for supporting young adult wellness. Topics will include anxiety, depression, identity development, trauma-informed care, substance use, eating disorders, and the intersection of mental health with academic and social pressures.

REGISTER HERE

SUBMIT a PROPOSAL

We invite practitioners, researchers, and other professionals to submit proposals for presentations, workshops, and panels that align with the conference’s mission to advance mental and behavioral health for young adults. Proposals should offer innovative approaches, practical tools, or research-based insights that support professionals working in clinical, educational, or community settings.

Successful proposals will: 

  • Include a clear and descriptive title 
  • Include specific and reasonable learning outcomes/presentation goals 
  • Be logically and considerately organized 
  • Be rooted in relevant research and/or theory 
SUBMIT PROPOSAL HERE

Proposal Categories:

  • Submissions may focus on therapeutic modalities, diagnostic tools, case studies, or integrated treatment models that address issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, eating disorders, and identity development. We welcome presentations that offer practical strategies for clinicians working in outpatient, inpatient, campus-based, or community settings, with an emphasis on developmentally appropriate care for young adults.
  • Submissions may focus on the ethical dimensions of mental and behavioral health care for young adults, as well as the integration of research and data into clinical decision-making. Presentations may address topics such as ethical dilemmas in treatment, confidentiality and consent with emerging adults, and the responsible use of digital tools and interventions. We also welcome submissions that demonstrate how evidence-based practices are applied in real-world settings, including program evaluation, outcome measurement, and the translation of research into practice
  • Specifically, we are looking for proposals that showcase innovative programs, initiatives, and partnerships designed to support young adult mental and behavioral health in campus or community settings. Submissions may highlight prevention efforts, peer support networks, recovery-oriented services, outreach strategies, or integrated care models. 
  • This category invites proposals that present original research, program evaluations, or data-driven insights related to young adult mental and behavioral health. Submissions may include studies that explore topics such as treatment outcomes, intervention efficacy, population-specific trends, or systemic barriers to care. We also welcome evaluations of campus or community-based programs that demonstrate measurable impact, as well as innovative methodologies that inform best practices and policy development.
  • We are seeking proposals that address proactive and responsive strategies for managing mental health crises among young adults. Submissions may explore crisis intervention models, suicide prevention efforts, harm reduction approaches, and systems for early identification and response. We welcome presentations that highlight tools and protocols that support safety, de-escalation, and continuity of care in high-stress situations.
  • We invite proposals that explore the evolving nature of identity and the transitional experiences that shape young adulthood. We welcome presentations that offer developmental insights, therapeutic approaches, or community-based strategies that support young adults in navigating identity formation and major life transitions.