Society of Behavioral Medicine SBM

Elliot J. Coups Improving Health Through Behavioral Medicine Award

Annual

Recognizes an individual who has demonstrated the application of research to improve health in individuals, groups, or populations. Eligible candidates may be engaged in research, industry, or clinical work, and may have made substantial contributions to translational work

Translational ResearchHealth Improvement

Deborah J. Bowen Early Career Investigator Award

Annual

Recognizes an early career individual's total career achievements so far, including a review of a representative published paper

Early CareerResearch

Distinguished Student Awards

Annual

Provides awards to students who demonstrate outstanding academic and professional potential in behavioral medicine. Categories include Excellence in Research, Excellence in Service Delivery, and Travel Scholarship

StudentResearchServiceTravel Scholarship

Outstanding Dissertation Award

Annual

Recognizes excellence in a student/trainee member's research through their dissertation

StudentDissertation

Mentor Award

Annual

Designed to honor outstanding service as a mentor in the clinical and professional arena, in either clinical and/or research endeavors

Mentorship

Health Policy Advocacy Award

Annual

Recognizes an individual's contributions and exemplary work in translating or extending behavioral medicine from research to policy

PolicyAdvocacy

How the last edition performed

Previous edition

Current edition

2027 · 2,000 visitors

Organiser estimates approximately 2,000 attendees for the 48th Annual Meeting based on the sponsor/exhibitor prospectus. No exhibitor count forecast published

Forecast — not final

Visitors

2,000

Exhibitors

Growth over time

New this edition

1
2027 Theme: Partnerships that Produce: Real-World Applications of Our Science
The 2027 meeting theme emphasizes collaborations that drive behavioral medicine forward, including implementation science, community-based participatory research, and studies addressing social determinants of health
Source

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

The 47th Annual Meeting convened approximately 2,000 researchers, clinicians, and industry experts from more than 20 disciplines for four days of discovery, connection, and celebration in Chicago. The meeting featured packed keynote lectures, thought-provoking sessions, and hallway conversations that sparked new collaborations. The theme, 'Integrating Scientific Perspectives to Advance Discovery and Innovation,' focused on breaking research silos to develop effective, adaptable, and sustainable health solutions more rapidly- -. The event provided unmatched education, scientific exchange, and networking with scientists driving the field

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

The 2026 Annual Meeting attracted a high-quality, multidisciplinary audience of approximately 2,000 behavioral and biomedical researchers, clinicians, and leading industry experts from more than 20 disciplines. Attendees included national and international leaders as well as students and postdocs. The audience was composed of professionals from academia, government, nonprofit organizations, and industry

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

The 2026 exhibitor marketing packet provided nine strategic ways for exhibitors to maximize ROI, including setting clear booth goals, preparing staff with elevator pitches, creating engaging booth experiences, and staffing the booth during all poster/exhibit hall hours. Exhibitors were encouraged to use promotions, interactive activities, and giveaways to draw attendees and create memorable experiences. Lead retrieval was included as a standard feature for exhibitors

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

Global, with North America dominating (approximately 41% market share historically)

Why it matters

The SBM Annual Meeting is the premier global gathering for behavioral medicine, bringing together over 2,100 researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals. As the behavioral health market expands (4.40% CAGR through 2035) and digital health, AI, and integrated care models reshape the field, this event provides a critical platform for disseminating cutting-edge research, forging cross-sector partnerships, and translating science into real-world practice. Attendees gain direct access to the latest evidence-based interventions, emerging technologies (AI-powered therapy, telehealth), and policy developments (FDA psychedelic therapy approvals) that are defining the future of behavioral medicine. For exhibitors and sponsors, the meeting offers unmatched access to decision-makers and key opinion leaders in a high-growth, high-impact sector

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

Behavioral Health Market Expansion

The behavioral health market is expanding steadily, valued at USD 186.50 billion in 2025 and projected to reach USD 286.87 billion by 2035 at a CAGR of 4.40%. Growth is driven by rising prevalence of mental health disorders, increasing awareness, supportive government initiatives, and growing integration of digital solutions

Telebehavioral Health Surge

Global behavioral telehealth is advancing at a 19.5% CAGR (2026–2032), projected to reach USD 236.6 billion by 2032. Policy extensions (Medicare telehealth flexibilities through 2027), new reimbursable codes, and consolidation like UHS's Talkspace acquisition are reshaping the landscape

AI-Powered Behavioral Therapy

The AI-powered behavioral therapy market is expected to grow from USD 1.68 billion in 2025 to USD 3.08 billion by 2031 at a 10.73% CAGR. AI is being deployed for documentation automation, patient navigation, risk stratification, and chatbots, addressing workforce shortages that affect 137 million Americans in mental health professional shortage areas

Integrated and Collaborative Care Models

Behavioral health is shifting from a specialty service to a core pillar of health system strategy. Four durable shifts—access expansion, clinical integration, reimbursement modernization, and digital enablement—are reshaping delivery, with primary care and employer programs becoming key entry points

Regulatory Acceleration and Psychedelic Therapies

In April 2026, the FDA introduced accelerated approval pathways for psychedelic therapies (psilocybin, MDMA) targeting depression and PTSD. This is expected to significantly expand treatment options and accelerate clinical adoption globally

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

Universal Health Services Completes $835M Acquisition of Talkspace

SBM Opens Abstract Submissions for 2027 Annual Meeting

Behavioral Health Market Reshaped by Four Durable Shifts

Global Behavioral Telehealth at 19.5% CAGR Through 2032

Spring Health Acquires Alma to Strengthen AI-Driven Behavioral Health Platform

Behavioral Medicine & Mental Health Conference Circuit 2026–2027

November 2026 – August 2027

The behavioral medicine conference circuit spans regional, national, and international events. Key gatherings include SBM's 48th Annual Meeting (Atlanta, April 2027), the International Congress of Behavioral Medicine (Singapore, July 2027), ABCT's 60th Convention (Baltimore, Nov 2026), and regional meetings like ASBHM (Perth, Feb 2027). These events collectively cover research, clinical practice, policy, and digital health innovation

12–15 Nov 2026

ABCT 60th Annual Convention

Baltimore, USA

One of the largest gatherings in behavioral and cognitive therapy worldwide, featuring symposia, clinical roundtables, workshops, panel discussions, and over 1,450 posters

10–12 Feb 2027

ASBHM 2027 Annual Scientific Conference

Perth, Australia

Focuses on innovative and translational research in behavioral health and medicine

12–14 Apr 2027

National Council for Behavioral Health NATCON Conference

TBD, USA

A major gathering for community behavioral health providers and advocates

14–17 Apr 2027

SBM 48th Annual Meeting & Scientific Sessions

Atlanta, USA

Theme: 'Partnerships that Produce: Real-World Applications of Our Science.' Features pre-conference courses, keynotes, symposia, posters, and exhibit hall

1–5 May 2027

APA 2027 Annual Meeting (American Psychiatric Association)

New York, USA

Brings together a specialized audience focused on psychiatric care, behavioral health, medication management, and patient outcomes

3–6 Jun 2027

Psych Congress Elevate 2027

TBD, USA

Focuses on depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, schizophrenia, and digital therapeutics

28–31 Jul 2027

ICBM 2027 – 19th International Congress of Behavioral Medicine

Singapore, Singapore

Organized by the International Society of Behavioral Medicine (ISBM). Call for workshops now open

19–22 Aug 2027

9th ACBTA Congress (Asian Cognitive Behavioral Therapies Association)

Tokyo, Japan

Hosted at the International University of Health and Welfare (IUHW) Akasaka Campus

Fall 2026

ABCT 60th Annual Convention

Focus on cognitive and behavioral therapy research and practice

Early 2027

ASBHM 2027 Annual Scientific ConferenceSBM 48th Annual Meeting & Scientific SessionsNational Council NATCON Conference

Dense period for behavioral medicine, with SBM as the flagship event in April

Mid-2027

APA 2027 Annual MeetingPsych Congress Elevate 2027ICBM 2027

Psychiatry and global behavioral medicine congresses. ICBM is the international counterpart to SBM

Late 2027

9th ACBTA Congress

Regional CBT focus in Asia

Event dates and details sourced from official organiser websites and industry calendars. Some dates and locations for 2027 events are subject to change; check official websites for updates

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · USD

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

ATL

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

The primary airport for Atlanta. MARTA subway provides a direct connection from the airport to Peachtree Center Station, a 10-minute walk from the Hilton Atlanta. The train runs every 10 minutes and takes approximately 18-20 minutes. The airport is Delta's mega-hub and one of the world's busiest

10 miles (16 km)

to venue

15-20 minutes

by car

FTY

Fulton County Airport

A smaller general aviation airport located southwest of downtown

10.8 miles (17.5 km)

to venue

~25 minutes

by car

PDK

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport

A general aviation airport northeast of downtown, an alternative for private or charter flights

15.1 miles (24.2 km)

to venue

~30 minutes

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

Budget

Downtown Atlanta

USD 130–180 / night

Basic economy hotels and motels within a 1-2 mile radius. Based on average 3-star hotel rates

Mid-Range

Downtown Atlanta

USD 180–280 / night

Hotels such as Residence Inn Atlanta Downtown, Aloft by Marriott Atlanta Downtown, and Courtland Grand Hotel. Average downtown hotel rate is around $252/night

Upscale

Downtown Atlanta

USD 280–400 / night

Properties like. The Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton, the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, and Hyatt Regency Atlanta. 4-star hotels average around $383/night

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

MARTA Rail

Estimated cost$2.50 one-way

Best forRed or Gold Line to Peachtree Center Station (closest to Hilton Atlanta)

Flat fare of $2.50 per ride-. Trains run every 10–15 minutes-. Breeze Card costs $2 (one-time) or paper ticket $1-. Multi-day passes also available

Rideshare (Uber / Lyft)

Estimated cost$20–$40 (airport to downtown)

Best forFrom airport to downtown or around city

UberX from ATL to downtown averages $28–$36-; Lyft Standard $19–$29-. Prices fluctuate with demand

Taxi

Estimated cost$30–$38 flat rate (airport to downtown)

Best forFrom airport to downtown or metered within city

Flat rate from ATL to Downtown is $30-, plus $2 per additional passenger-. Midtown flat rate $32, Buckhead $38–$40

Atlanta Streetcar

Estimated cost$1 one-way

Best forDowntown loop (connects Peachtree Center to attractions)

Runs every 15 minutes-. Day pass $3-. Resumed service in early 2026 after a pause

Parking (Garage / Metered)

Estimated cost$15–$35/day (garage), $3.50/hour (metered)

Best forDowntown Atlanta

Garage parking averages $15–$35 per day in downtown-. On-street metered parking increased to $3.50/hour in March 2026

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
B-1 Business Visitor Visa	Citizens of countries not in the Visa Waiver Program who are attending a scientific, educational, professional, or business conference, trade show, or business event, and who will receive no salary or income from a U.S. based entity	$160.00	3-5 months (recommended to apply well in advance of travel)
ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)	Citizens of 42 Visa Waiver Program countries (including the UK, most EU nations, Australia, Japan, South Korea, etc.) traveling for business or tourism for stays of 90 days or less	$40.27	Usually under 1 hour; can take up to 72 hours for additional review

Citizens of the 42 Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries do not require a B-1 visa for stays under 90 days for business purposes, but must obtain an approved ESTA prior to travel. The list of VWP countries includes the UK, most EU and Schengen states (but not Bulgaria, Romania, or Cyprus), Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Qatar, Taiwan, and others

The United States accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary importation of commercial samples, professional equipment, and goods for use at exhibitions and trade shows. The ATA Carnet is an international customs document that allows duty-free and tax-free temporary importation for up to one year. It is issued by the United States Council for International Business (USCIB) through authorized service providers (Roanoke Trade and boomerang carnets) The carnet holder must present the goods and carnet to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon importation and re-exportation. Failure to comply may result in charges of 110% of the duty and import tax

Official visa page

Weather

April in Atlanta is mild and pleasant, with average high temperatures around 73°F (23°C) and lows around 52°F (11°C). However, April is also one of the city's wetter months, with an average rainfall of about 3.8 inches (97 mm)- and an average of 13 rainy days-. Packing a light jacket, an umbrella, and comfortable layers is highly recommended

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

The Hilton Atlanta is exceptionally well-connected to Atlanta's transportation network. It is located in the heart of downtown, a short walk from the Peachtree Center MARTA station, which provides direct access to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) on the Red and Gold lines. The hotel is also conveniently located near major highways I-75 and I-85. Downtown Atlanta is walkable, with many attractions, hotels, and restaurants within a 10-15 minute stroll

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

Business Etiquette

Atlanta blends Southern hospitality with a fast-paced business environment. A firm handshake and direct eye contact are standard for greetings-. While the atmosphere is generally friendly, it's best to remain professional and address business acquaintances by their last names until invited to use first names-. Punctuality is expected for meetings

Southern Hospitality & Language

Atlanta is known for its friendly and polite culture. You will likely hear 'y'all' and other Southern colloquialisms, which are used naturally and are a part of the local charm-. A polite and courteous demeanor is always appreciated in both business and social settings

Dining and Tipping

Tipping is standard practice in the U.S. At restaurants, a tip of 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is customary for good service. For taxi or rideshare drivers, a tip of 10-15% is also appreciated

Transportation

The MARTA subway system provides direct service from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Peachtree Center Station, a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available. The city's downtown is walkable, and many attractions are within a 1-mile radius

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)

ATL is a major hub for Delta Air Lines. Book well in advance for the best rates, especially for international flights

Visa

Most international travelers attending the SBM Annual Meeting will require either a B-1 Business Visitor Visa or, if they are citizens of a Visa Waiver Program country, an ESTA authorization. The B-1 visa requires a formal application and interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate, while ESTA is a quick online application. An invitation letter from the conference organizers may be helpful for B-1 visa applicants

Processing: B-1 visa: 3-5 months; ESTA: up to 72 hours (usually under 1 hour)

It is strongly recommended that international attendees begin the visa application process as early as possible. ESTA applications should be submitted at least 72 hours before departure, but preferably earlier. For B-1 visa applicants, scheduling an interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate can take several weeks or months

Official

Hotels

Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

Areas to stay

Downtown Atlanta (closest to the venue, most convenient) · Midtown Atlanta (a short MARTA ride away, more dining and nightlife options) · Buckhead (upscale area, further north, accessible via MARTA)

Budget

$130 - $180 per night

Mid-Range

$180 - $280 per night

Upscale

$280 - $400 per night

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: MARTA Rail: $2.50 flat fare, ~20 minutes to Peachtree Center Station-. Taxi: ~$37.50 flat fare-. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): $25-$45

Hotel → venue: Most downtown hotels are within walking distance (5-15 minutes). MARTA and rideshare are also available

Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft are widely available. From the airport to downtown, expect $28-$36 for UberX

Public transit: MARTA is the primary public transit system. One-way fare is $2.50 with four free transfers within 3 hours-. The Red and Gold lines connect the airport to downtown stations like Peachtree Center and Five Points

Parking: On-site parking at the Hilton Atlanta is $40 per night for self-parking and $60 per night for valet. Downtown garage parking averages $15-$35 per day-. On-street metered parking is $3.50 per hour

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: April

Temperature: Highs around 73°F (23°C), Lows around 52°F (11°C)

Seasonality: Moderate rainfall, average of 3.8 inches and 13 rainy days

Packing: Pack layers (light jacket/sweater), comfortable business attire, an umbrella, and a raincoat. Spring is generally mild but can be unpredictable

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

8:00 AMRegistration & Breakfast
9:00 AM:00 PMAttend Keynote & Symposia Sessions
12:00 PM:30 PMLunch & Networking in Exhibit Hall
1:30 PM:00 PMPaper Presentations & Panel Discussions
5:30 PM:00 PMPoster Session & Reception

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day for qualified buyer meetings: Thursday, April 15, 2027

Thursday features the full opening of the scientific program, including the keynote, the Stride for Science 5K, and the exhibit hall, providing the most comprehensive experience for both visitors and exhibitors

Side trips

Georgia Aquarium

Aquarium

0.7 miles (walkable)

One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring whale sharks, beluga whales, and interactive exhibits

World of Coca-Cola

Museum

0.7 miles (walkable)

Explore the history of the iconic beverage brand and taste over 100 different Coca-Cola products from around the world

Centennial Olympic Park

Park

0.7 miles (walkable)

A 21-acre public park built for the 1996 Summer Olympics, featuring the Fountain of Rings and hosting various events

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

Museum

0.7 miles (walkable)

An engaging museum that connects the American Civil Rights Movement to contemporary human rights struggles around the world

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Stadium

1.6 miles (drive/transit)

State-of-the-art stadium, home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC, offering tours and hosting major concerts and events

Networking spots

''5

/,''

Poster Sessions

Poster Area

Excellent opportunity for informal discussions with researchers

Breakfast Roundtables

Small Group

Structured networking over breakfast with peers and leaders

Stride for Science 5K

Social / Wellness

A fun run/walk on Thursday evening that fosters community and supports the Bridging the Gap Research Award

Budget

Costs & budget

2027 exhibit pricing not yet published. Based on the 2026 Annual Meeting (April 22-25, 2026, Hilton Chicago), booth packages were: 10'x10' Basic Booth (Nonprofit Rate) $2,000; 10'x10' Basic Booth $2,500; 10'x20' Deluxe Booth $5,000. New exhibitors received a $500 first-time exhibitor discount. These prices are for the 2026 edition and may change for 2027