Clinical perspectives on the integration of mainstream mental health approaches and traditional aboriginal healing practices.

The purpose of my thesis was to describe the perspectives of child and youth mental health clinicians on the integration of mainstream mental health approaches and traditional Aboriginal healing practices. Research participants consisted of four clinicians currently employed by the Ministry of Children and Family Development, who have delivered services in the Northern region of British Columbia within the last twelve months. The literature review examined a variety of topic related areas, including: Cultural Safety Research Considerations Aboriginal Mental Health Mainstream Mental Health Approaches Traditional Aboriginal Healing Practices Integrated Mental Health Approaches and Considerations for Rural Practice. I applied a qualitative research approach, guided by the tenets of a constructivist lens. The process of examining my research findings involved the application of a Thematic Analysis approach. My research findings support the need for future research that would expand the scope and applicability of findings. These findings suggest that clinicians see the value of integrated approaches in both their practice and in outcomes for their clients. In addition, findings suggest that clinicians perceive the limitations of mainstream approaches as potential barriers to the efficacy of therapeutic interventions. Implications related to the field of social work include the institution of organizational specific cultural safety training and shifts towards more flexible and collaboratively based service delivery structures. --Leaf i.