Implementation and evaluation of a two-eyed seeing approach using traditional healing and seeking safety in an indigenous residential treatment program in Northern Ontario

Original research
by
Marsh, T. et al

Release Date

2023

Geography

Canada

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

Yes

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

No

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

We evaluated the effectiveness of a Two-Eyed Seeing approach in a four-week harm reduction residential treatment programme for clients with a history of substance use disorder (SUD) and intergenerational trauma (IGT).

Findings/Key points

Four themes were identified: (1) Motivation to attend treatment; (2) Understanding Benbowopka's treatment programme and needs to be met; (3) Satisfaction with all interventions; and (4) Moving forward. We utilised a conceptualised descriptive framework for the four core themes depicted in the medicine wheel. This qualitative study affirmed that cultural elements and the SS Western model were highly valued by all participants. The impact of the harm reduction approach, coupled with traditional healing methods, further enhanced the outcome.

Design/methods

Records for 157 patients

Keywords

Harm reduction
Wrap-around services
About PWUD
Indigenous