2026 VAAP Annual Meeting & Training
Brain-Informed Care:
Neurobiology of Trauma, Addiction, and Recovery
6 Continuing Education (CE) Hours

March 27, 2026 | 8:30 AM-4:30 PM
Richmond Marriott Short Pump
Exclusively for VAAP Individual Members
Registration Deadline: March 20, 2026
 
Join us at the 2026 VAAP Annual Meeting & Training, where education meets community! This event offers a unique opportunity to network with colleagues, connect with exhibitors, and gain valuable insights through our featured training sessions.  Additionally, members will have the opportunity to speak with VAAP Board Members and participate in VAAP's Annual Business Meeting.
 
Training Sessions (6 CEs total):
  • Some Wounds Can't Be Seen: Trauma and Neurobiology
  • Substance Use and the Brain: From Initial Experience to Recovery
Presenter: Fredrick Dombrowski, PhD, LMHC, LPC, LADC, MAC
 
Description: This full-day training provides clinicians with a comprehensive, neurobiologically informed understanding of trauma and substance use disorders, emphasizing how brain functioning influences behavior, treatment engagement, and recovery. Throughout the day, participants will explore how adverse experiences and ongoing substance use shape neurological responses, impact emotional regulation and interpersonal functioning, and contribute to treatment challenges.

The training highlights the importance of understanding each client’s unique brain-based responses in order to develop personalized, effective treatment interventions. Participants will examine how trauma and substance use affect specific brain regions, how these changes manifest in behavior and decision-making, and why recovery can be difficult even after substance use stops. The day concludes with a focus on evidence-based, brain-informed clinical strategies that support healing, improve treatment outcomes, and promote long-term recovery.
Where to Stay: VAAP has reserved a small block of rooms at the Richmond Marriott Short Pump for attendees at the special rate of $161 per night (+tax). Space is limited.
  • Reservation Deadline: March 5, 2026
  • To make a reservation, CLICK HERE or call 888-236-2427. The discounted rate cannot be guaranteed after the deadline.

Important Information
  • The VAAP Annual Meeting & Training is open only to current Individual Members of VAAP.  Prior to registering, please be sure your membership is current and will be active on the day of the event.
  • Registration Deadline: March 20, 2026. Registrations will NOT be accepted after the deadline or on-site.
  • Payment: All payments must be made at the time of registration. Any registration made without payment will be cancelled.
  • CE Credit Requirements: To receive CEs, attendees must arrive on time and stay for the entirety of the event.  No partial credit will be given.


Date:
March 27, 2026
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Where:
Richmond Marriott Short Pump
4240 Dominion Blvd
Glen Allen, VA 23060


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Your registration includes:
  • 6 Continuing Education Hours (CEs) of Training
  • Continental Breakfast
  • Buffet Lunch
  • A Vote at the Annual Business Meeting
  • Opportunities to Network with Colleagues and Exhibitors
  • A Chance to Win a Full Scholarship to the Virginia Summer Institute for Addiction Studies (VSIAS) in Williamsburg, VA in July (value up to $560)
  • Snacks and beverages throughout the day
* indicates a required field.
 
Registration     Fee Quantity
Current VAAP Individual Member*     $15.00
 
Add to Calendar 3/27/2026 8:30 AM 3/27/2026 4:30 PM 2026 VAAP Annual Meeting and Training David Semanco, Registrar dsemanco@vaaddictionpros.org false MM/DD/YYYY Richmond Marriott Short Pump 4240 Dominion Blvd Glen Allen, VA 23060


About the Presenter

Fredrick Dombrowski is the AMHCA Past President and has extensive experience treating those living with co-occurring disorders since 1998. He has been a supervisor and director for multiple programs including inpatient, outpatient, and forensic treatment. Currently a Department Chair at the University of Bridgeport, he is focused on experiential learning through a perspective of cultural humility and equitable clinical care. His 2nd edition of Co-occurring Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorders will be published this year. He has appeared on television, radio, and internet advocating for the helping professions and has won awards for his work with marginalized populations.
 


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