The North American Restorative Conference has officially concluded, and it’s time to reflect on this extraordinary event that took place in Downey, California, from November 5–7, 2025.
1. It’s All About Connection
This year’s conference brought together approximately 150–180 mental health specialists, educators, speakers, park directors, counselors, administrators, and psychologists. The event was the culmination of months of dedication, creativity, and teamwork by the LAIRP team. Anyone who has ever organized a conference knows that it’s no small feat, but seeing like-minded people connect, share, and grow together makes it all worth it.
We were especially fortunate to have the Los Angeles Department of Mental Health support our event. The energy and enthusiasm of their small but mighty team invigorated everyone around them. They came to support the conference but ended up becoming an essential part of its success. Thank you to the DMH team!
One of my most meaningful connections came through meeting Azadeh Atzberger from Finally Free Life. Although I wasn’t able to attend her session, I had the pleasure of connecting with her, her mother, and her husband before and after the event. Azadeh brings remarkable passion and authenticity to her work and her ability to connect deeply with others is truly special. I was grateful for the opportunity to include her books as part of our prize giveaways, and even more grateful for the human connection that emerged from our conversations.
2. Keynotes Make All the Difference
Keynote speakers have the power to set the tone and amplify the themes of a conference, and TNARC 2025 was no exception.
On our opening day, Carlos Alvarez, Founder and CEO of LAIRP, explored the right brain’s role in fostering healthy co-regulation between adults and children. His message grounded the conference in empathy, neuroscience, and human connection. Carlos's keynote was academic yet practical, and helped provide tips and strategies to all those in attendance.
On day two, Dr. Bob Weathers delivered an emotional and heartfelt keynote, beginning with a tribute to the educators who shaped his life. He then guided us through the importance of mindfulness and the healing act of forgiveness, reminding us that restoration begins with ourselves. During his keynote session, Dr. Weathers announced that this would be the last keynote of his career, as he is moving to focus more on writing and resting! This announcement made every participant hold on to word and nugget of wisdom that was being shared by Dr. Weathers. This was the perfect audience to absorb lessons from Dr. Weather's fecund career.
Our final day featured Dr. Andrea Hodge, a USC engineering professor and Department Chair, who spoke about the intersection of resilience and grit. “When we bounce back from misfortune or adversity,” Dr. Hodge said, “we are different - though it isn’t always noticeable to others.” Her insights challenged us to see growth as both internal and transformative, small but significant. Dr. Hodge also infused principals from physics to explain the impact that we have on others and that others have on us.
Each keynote brought something distinct yet complementary, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.
3. Slow It Down
One of the most appreciated elements of TNARC 2025 was the intentional pacing. Many attendees commented on how refreshing it was to have space - both literal and emotional - between sessions. We built in 30-minute breaks between workshops to allow for rest, reflection, and authentic connection.
Anyone who has attended a conference knows how exhausting it can be to rush from one session to another. A day of learning turns into a mini-marathon and race. At TNARC, we decided to slow things down, and that simple change made all the difference. It allowed people to recharge, deepen conversations, and genuinely experience community.
4. Learn and Grow
As the saying goes, “Done is better than perfect.” Despite the countless hours spent planning, no event is without its surprises. On the first day, we started at 9:00 a.m., and on the second, at 8:30 a.m. - a small change that threw off some attendees and required quick adjustments. Some sessions were over capacity, while others had smaller turnouts than expected. We also learned that 2½ days might be too long; a two-day format may serve everyone better in the future.
What matters most is that we continue to reflect, learn, and grow. Every challenge offered insight, and every success deepened our sense of purpose. As we close the chapter on TNARC 2025, we’re already looking ahead with excitement and optimism for TNARC 2026 - because the work of connection, healing, and transformation never stops.
Thank you to all those who attended and to the LAIRP team that came together to put this amazing event together. You know who you are!
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