2026 Symposium

CAC's 3rd Annual Symposium

On Friday, February 20, 2026, CAC is hosting Rooted & Rising: Cultivating Strength through Mindful Practice. We invite you to register yourself (or your whole team) for a day of inspired learning and self-care!

Keynote and Closing speaker: Chaz Franke, MSW, LCSW. Chaz is the owner of Light Source LLC and has worked with trauma and its long-reaching effects since 2007. Chaz specializes in psychodynamics, self-compassion and integrating Eastern thought and philosophy into the therapeutic process. Chaz has participated in training with important figures in the field of therapy and psychology such as Dr. Ira Chasnoff and Dr. Bruce Perry.
AM and PM breakout sessions on improving whole-person wellness and being real about the toll of vicarious trauma on social service/ mental health providers.
Speakers include:
- Melanie Pignotti, LCPC - CEO of CAC of N & NW Cook County
- Dr. Jackie Anderson-Carter, PhD, LCSW - Owner of Inclusive Insight
- Michael Rangel, LCSW, R-DMT - Owner of Art of Abundance Counseling & Wellness
4 CEUs available for LCSW, LCPC and ISBE social workers.

Early bird registration is $30/person*, which includes in-person sessions, breakfast, lunch and 4 CEUs. A networking area will also be available. Groups registering 3 or more people together pay $25/person.

*$30 reflects Early Bird pricing.

After February 1, tickets will be $40/person.

Sponsorships are available starting at $250.

Note: Vendor tables are available with a paid ticket or sponsorship. Vendor tables will be open in the morning during registration and lunch.

Questions? Contact Mattie Colan at mcolan@cachelps.org

Breakouts and Speaker Bios

Sponsorship information

Pay sponsorship online