1st Annual Conference & Gala

The Future of Mental Health in America

The Future of Mental Health in America

Join us in West Hartford, CT on December 4, 2025, for Inner Compass Initiative’s inaugural conference and gala.

We’re bringing together current and former patients, clinicians, researchers, policymakers, journalists, academics, family members, and advocates to take a hard look at today’s mental health industry, explore future opportunities for change, and reimagine the ways we understand ourselves and the challenges that come with being human.

About this event

  • The event begins with a reception on Wednesday evening at the Delamar West Hartford from 5pm to 7pm for early arrivals. Then we begin on Thursday morning with speakers and panel discussions and end with a black-tie optional gala dinner on Thursday night.
  • We expect panel discussions to begin at about 9am on Thursday, with a break for lunch and continuing through the afternoon, and finishing with cocktails and our gala dinner in the evening.

Where to stay

Delamar West Hartford (conference venue)

  • We’ve secured a discounted room block at the Delamar West Hartford for our event guests for 2 nights (from December 3-5). Breakfast and valet included. To book, please call the reservations team at +1 (860) 937-2500 or email dwhreservations@thedelamar.com. $289 per night (exclusive of 15% occupancy tax plus a $15 service charge per room, per night)
  • Located just steps from West Hartford Center, the Delamar offers elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and fine dining. Guests staying here are right at the heart of the conference, with immediate access to all sessions and events.

Courtyard by Marriott Hartford Farmington (approx. 12 min drive)

  • A modern business-friendly hotel with spacious rooms, on-site dining, and easy highway access. Convenient for travelers seeking a quieter setting close to shopping and restaurants in Farmington.

The Capitol Hotel, Downtown Hartford (approx. 9 min drive)

  • Boutique hotel in a historic Art Deco building, offering stylish accommodations in downtown Hartford. Walkable to Bushnell Park, restaurants, and nightlife. A good fit for attendees who want a city feel with quick access to West Hartford.

The Goodwin Hotel, Downtown Hartford (approx. 11 min drive)

  • Upscale boutique hotel known for its dramatic architecture and refined atmosphere. Offers luxury amenities, creative dining, and a lively downtown location, ideal for guests who want a distinctive stay.

Avon Old Farms Hotel (approx. 14 min drive)

  • Charming countryside inn with classic New England character. Surrounded by woodlands but only a short drive from West Hartford, it offers a more relaxed, scenic environment with full amenities and traditional hospitality.

Getting to West Hartford, CT

Nearest airports

  • Bradley International Airport (BDL) – (approx. 25 min drive)
  • Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN) – (approx. 55 min drive)
  • Hartford Union Station (Amtrak & Greyhound) – (approx. 10 min drive)

Ground transportation

  • Rideshare (Uber/Lyft), local taxis, and rental cars available
  • CT Transit bus lines connect West Hartford to Hartford and surrounding towns

Parking information

  • Valet is complimentary for all guests staying overnight at the Delamar West Hartford. For all guests driving in, we kindly ask that you park at the nearby Memorial Parking Garage. You can also prepay and reserve at the Isham Garage (located across the street), through the Town of West Hartford.

Food & dining

Conference attendees will find a wide variety of food options within walking distance of the venue:
  • Whole Foods Market (Blue Back Square) – Ideal for grab-and-go meals, healthy snacks, or dietary-specific needs
  • Maruichi Japanese Grocery – A specialty store offering authentic Japanese ingredients, prepared foods, and a small selection of ready-to-eat meals.
  • Blue Back Square Restaurants – A vibrant hub featuring a range of sit-down and casual dining, from American bistros to global cuisine.
  • West Hartford Center Dining – Dozens of independent restaurants, cafés, and bars right outside the hotel doors, offering everything from fine dining to cozy coffee shops.

Recommended attire

  • Wednesday evening reception: Cocktail attire
  • Thursday conference: Business casual
  • Thursday evening reception & gala dinner: Black-tie optional

Interested in sponsoring?

  • If you’re interested in sponsoring this event or our work generally, please email us at hello@theinnercompass.org. We’d love to hear from you!