Closing Keynote — National Counselling & Psychotherapy Conference (NCPC) 2025, Singapore

It was a profound honour to deliver the closing keynote together with Dr Richard Lim at the NCPC 2025 in Singapore, a one-day gathering of professionals and advocates committed to mental health and healing.

Our joint session, “Why Support Groups Matter in Recovery — But Aren’t Enough on Their Own,” explored the vital role of community in recovery, while also highlighting why groups alone are not the complete solution.

In my part of the keynote, I shared from lived experience. Support groups, including 12-step programs, gave me a lifeline when I hit rock bottom from burnout, addiction, and isolation. They removed shame and stigma, connected me with others who understood, and gave me the courage to speak honestly. But I also reminded the audience that while support groups create belonging, they are not enough in isolation.

Individual work with counsellors, psychotherapists, and coaches is equally important — but these professionals may not always be able to self-disclose lived experiences they haven’t faced. That is why the combination is the secret: community + therapy + coaching + deep self-reflection. This integrated approach is what sustains real transformation.

I also shared my personal story — rising as a successful executive, crashing into my lowest point, and slowly rebuilding to where I am today as a top 2% IRONMAN athlete worldwide. I introduced my 5 Steps to Holistic Leadership — Surrender, Purpose, Connection, Goals, and Discipline — and spoke in depth about Step 3: Connection. We explored how human connection sustains recovery, and I spoke about my participation in over 1,000 recovery meetings, where I learned the principle: “you have to give it back to keep it.”

I highlighted the Limitless Men’s Group, which I lead, where men from all walks of life come together to practice vulnerability and support one another. I also drew on examples like Brad Pitt, who has spoken about how a 12-step group gave him the first safe space to speak freely during a difficult period, and the School of Positive Psychology, where I continue to foster safe spaces for growth and reflection.

To close the conference, I shared a truth that has guided me throughout my recovery and leadership journey, quoting Viktor Frankl:

“Those who have a ‘why’ to live, can bear with almost any ‘how’.”

A heartfelt thank-you to Stephanie Izevbigie and the NCPC team for creating such a meaningful and compassionate event.

Healing is strongest when we do it together. 💜

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