Decolonizing the Conceptualization of Trauma: An Indigenous Focusing-Oriented Approach
Date
2021-09-24
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Abstract
Counselling psychology prides itself on social justice and diversity in treatment modalities. Yet, many Indigenous clients continue to receive culturally irrelevant treatment, as evidenced by high dropout rates and mistrust of the health care system. In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) released 94 calls to action directly addressing the unlawful treatment of Indigenous Peoples throughout Canada. In response to the TRC and with the goal of decolonization, reconciliation, and reclamation, a jointly-struck task force was created on behalf of the Canadian Psychological Association and the Psychology Foundation of Canada. The task force highlighted the need for ethical Indigenous research and culturally relevant approaches to psychological treatment for Indigenous Peoples; hence, this research is a direct response to both documents. Utilizing a relational methodology and Indigenous research methods of conversation, witnessing, and reflexive journaling, this study sought to understand the conceptualization of trauma within Indigenous Focusing-oriented therapy (IFOT). Grounded in land and an Indigenous ontology, IFOT is a holistic, decolonizing approach to health and wellbeing. Resulting from the wisdoms shared by four knowledge holders versed in the teachings of IFOT, the conceptualization of trauma is understood through the Trauma Wisdom Tree and Medicine Roots. Indigenous Peoples hold centuries of wisdoms having survived through intergenerational trauma and cultural genocide. Thus, through connection with our Medicine Roots, clients can restore healing, balance, and harmony. Moreover, reflecting on the concept of survivance, intergenerational trauma and resistance to colonialism is honoured. In addressing decolonization, cultural appropriation, and the issue of “evidence”, these findings present implications for practice, research, and social justice within education, counselling psychology, and related fields.
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Keywords
Counselling, Decolonizing, Indigenous Focusing-Oriented Therapy, Indigenous, Psychotherapy
Citation
Tipple, S. D. (2021). Decolonizing the Conceptualization of Trauma: An Indigenous Focusing-Oriented Approach (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca.