The APA Annual Convention is the American Psychological Association’s flagship gathering, uniting psychologists, researchers, clinicians, educators, and students for several days of science, practice, and policy in SoMa, San Francisco. Typically hosted at the Moscone Center (747 Howard St), it blends cutting‑edge research with practical training, offering a rare cross‑specialty view of psychology—from behavioral neuroscience and clinical interventions to industrial‑organizational insights and health equity.
Program tracks span the full breadth of the field: evidence‑based therapies, assessment, ethics, DEI and social justice, neuropsychology, school and counseling psychology, sports and performance, and technology in practice (telepsychology, AI, digital phenotyping). Attendees can choose from invited addresses by leading scientists and practitioners, symposia, CE‑eligible workshops, poster sessions, and live clinical demonstrations. The Exhibit Hall showcases assessment tools, practice management software, publishers, testing services, and graduate training programs, while specialty pavilions host meet‑the‑author signings and product demos.
A hallmark of the convention is its integration of science and practice: translational research briefings sit alongside hands‑on skills labs, and policy sessions decode federal and state issues affecting licensure, reimbursement, and mental health parity. The schedule also highlights well‑being—mindfulness sessions, peer consultation hours, and job search resources—plus student‑focused programming on dissertation design, internship matching, and career pathways within and beyond academia.
Licensed psychologists seeking CE credits, graduate students and trainees building networks and résumés, researchers presenting new findings, health system leaders and policy advocates shaping access to care, and allied professionals who collaborate with psychologists (e.g., physicians, social workers, educators, data scientists).
Moscone spans North, South, and West—build 15–20 minutes between sessions to move across buildings. Reserve CE workshops early and download the APA mobile app to sync your schedule and room changes. Bring institutional ID for potential exhibitor discounts, and a poster tube if presenting. For SoMa logistics, use the Powell or Montgomery BART/Muni stations for quick access, and plan lunch either onsite or along nearby Howard/Mission corridors to avoid peak lines. Check the official APA website for current dates, registration tiers, and presenter deadlines.
Convention opening, badge collection, explore Moscone Center in SoMa.
Keynote sessions by leading psychologists, breakout workshops, networking.
Closing keynote, expert panels, final discussions.
Featured appearances from esteemed psychologists and researchers, alongside keynotes from APA leadership and pioneering experts. Speaker lineup, subject to change
Skip the surge pricing. Keep the good nights’ sleep. Downtown hotels near Moscone Center book up fast and surge in price during APA Annual Convention week. Marina Motel puts you in a quieter, classic San Francisco neighborhood — walkable to the waterfront, Chestnut Street shops and restaurants, and just a short ride to SoMa and the convention center via rideshare, bus, or the Marina/Union Street corridor. It's a good fit for attendees who want to end a long conference day away from the downtown crowds, with easier parking and a more relaxed, residential feel.
