SPEAKING ENGAGEMENT: NAADAC Annual Conference, Kansas City

Challenging the Process: When Traditional Recovery Models Stop Serving Everyone

Traditional recovery models have helped millions of people reclaim their lives, yet evolving research and lived experience show that no single pathway works for everyone. As substance use and mental health challenges continue to shift, addiction professionals are called to examine where existing approaches serve people well, and where new thinking may be needed. Drawing on the leadership practice of Challenge the Process from The Leadership Challenge®, this
session explores how evidence-based leadership principles, professional experience, and lived recovery can encourage openness to new approaches. Participants will consider how leadership behaviors can expand recovery pathways while honoring the foundations that have helped many individuals achieve and sustain recovery.

This event is hosted by EMPOWER 2026: the NAADAC Annual Conference, recognized as the biggest addiction educational event of 2026 where over 1,000 addiction professionals gather for networking opportunities and the chance to learn about the latest advancements in the field.