The IEDTA 2026 International Conference will take place from October 7-9, 2026, in the beautiful historic coastal city of Dubrovnik, Croatia. This is the 12th biennial conference bringing together leading Experiential Dynamic Therapy clinicians and teachers from around the world.

The 2026 conference explores 'The Person of The Therapist' in psychotherapy, featuring experiential, emotionally engaging presentations with clinical videos and interactive exercises. This theme examines the crucial role that therapists themselves play in the therapeutic process.

The conference will be held at:

Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel

Iva Dulčića 34

20000 Dubrovnik, Croatia

Yes! We are planning extended learning opportunities:

•       Pre-Conference Workshop: A 2-day intensive workshop is planned before the conference (October 5-6, 2026)

•       Post-Conference Workshop: A possible 1-day workshop may be offered after the conference (October 10, 2026)

More detailed information about workshop topics, instructors, registration, and pricing will be announced in the coming weeks. Please check the conference website regularly as workshop details are finalized.

Your conference registration fee includes:

•       Access to all conference sessions, workshops, and keynotes

•       Conference materials and proceedings

•       Daily lunch during the conference (October 7-9)

•       Coffee breaks and refreshments

•       Access to networking events such as welcome and good-bye happy hours

Yes, CE (Continuing Education) and CME (Continuing Medical Education) credits will be offered for an additional fee. More detailed information about credit availability, costs, and application procedures will be provided in 2026. Please check the conference website for updates.

Yes, cancellation policies will be outlined during registration. Typically, cancellations made well in advance receive partial or full refunds minus processing fees. Please refer to the cancellation policy on the website for specific details and deadlines.

All three partner hotels are within easy walking distance of the Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel conference venue. The Valamar Lacroma is the conference venue itself, while both the Sunny by Valamar and Dubrovnik President Valamar Collection Hotel are just a short walk away (5-10 minutes), making it convenient to attend all sessions and events.

Transportation options from Dubrovnik Airport to the conference hotels:

•       Airport shuttle bus to city center, then local transport or taxi

•       Taxi or ride-sharing services (approximately 25-30 minutes)

•       Private car hire or pre-arranged transfers

•       Valid photo ID or passport

•       Conference registration confirmation

•       Business cards for networking

•       Notebook or device for taking notes during interactive exercises

•       Comfortable professional attire

•       Open mind and willingness to engage in experiential learning

Business casual is the recommended dress code for the conference sessions. For the Gala Dinner on October 8, cocktail attire or business formal is suggested. While the atmosphere is professional and focused on clinical learning, we encourage comfortable attire suitable for interactive workshops and experiential exercises during daytime sessions. The October weather in Dubrovnik is typically mild and pleasant, so layers are recommended for varying indoor and outdoor temperatures.

The conference will use Whova as the official conference app. Through Whova, you will be able to register, check in upon arrival, view the conference schedule, access session information, connect with other attendees, participate in discussions, provide feedback on sessions, and receive important updates and announcements throughout the event. Download instructions and access information will be provided to registered attendees prior to the conference.

Yes, complimentary WiFi will be available at the Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel throughout the conference areas. Network credentials will be provided upon check-in.

Breakfast: Complimentary breakfast is provided daily at all three partner hotels for hotel guests.

Lunch: Daily lunch is included with your conference registration fee (October 7-9).

Coffee Breaks: Coffee breaks with refreshments will be provided throughout the day and are included in your registration.

Gala Dinner: A special Gala Dinner will be held on October 8 at the Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel. Tickets for this event require an additional fee (see Social Events section below).

Dietary restrictions and preferences can be noted during the registration process for included meals and when purchasing Gala Dinner tickets.

The Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel is a modern facility with accessibility features including wheelchair access, elevators, and accessible restrooms. If you have specific accessibility needs or require special accommodations, please contact the conference organizers in advance so appropriate arrangements can be made.

The conference offers extensive networking opportunities to connect with fellow Experiential Dynamic Therapy practitioners from around the world:

•       Welcome reception on the evening of October 7

•       Interactive exercises during conference sessions

•       Coffee breaks and lunch periods designed for informal conversation

•       Dedicated networking sessions and small group discussions

•       Gala Dinner on October 8 (separate ticket required)

•       Closing reception on October 9

Please also use the WHOVA app to communicate with other attendees. See: www.whova.com

The Gala Dinner is a special evening event on October 8, 2026, held at the Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel. This elegant evening provides an opportunity to:

•       Enjoy fine dining with colleagues from around the world

•       Network in a more relaxed, celebratory atmosphere

•       Celebrate the IEDTA community and the work we do

•       Experience Croatian hospitality and cuisine

The Gala Dinner will be held at the Sunset Terrace, offering a stunning outdoor setting with views of the Adriatic Sea. In the event of adverse weather conditions, the dinner will be moved to the Elafiti Hall, an elegant indoor venue.

Please note:

•       The Gala Dinner requires a separate ticket and is not included in the conference registration fee

•       Tickets can be purchased during the registration process

•       Cocktail attire or business formal is suggested for the Gala Dinner

•       Dietary preferences can be indicated when purchasing your ticket

Whether you need a visa to enter Croatia depends on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and the intended duration of your stay. Croatia is a member of the Schengen Area, so its visa policies align with the common rules. 

Visa-Free Entry (e.g., U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, Japan) 

Citizens of many countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Japan, do not need a visa for tourism or business for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. 

For these travelers, entry requirements typically include:

• A passport with an expiry date at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.

• At least one blank page in your passport for an entry stamp.

• Proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay (approx. EUR 70 per day, less if accommodation is paid for).

• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, etc.).

• A return or onward travel ticket. 

Important Note for Visa-Free Travelers:

• Schengen Area Rules: Your time spent in other Schengen countries counts towards the total 90-day limit.

• ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System): Starting in late 2026, visa-exempt travelers will need to obtain an ETIAS travel authorization online before their trip (fee of approx. EUR 20). More to come on this as we get information to share.