Traditional Healing Methods
Program Overview
This program emphasizes traditional healing methods and provides students with the unique opportunity to develop self-awareness and the mental and spiritual healing so often needed by caregivers. An appreciation for Indigenous culture and the uniqueness of being an Indigenous person are combined with studies to develop specific knowledge and skills in the use of traditional healing methods in the counselling of Indigenous people.
The program utilizes existing courses of study within the General Arts and Science program, as well as some which have been especially tailored for Indigenous student's learning styles and need to explore their heritage. A special feature of the program is the College's support system for Indigenous students, which includes the Indigenous counselor.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are well prepared for positions in mental health services and social services, or as community health representatives, in Indigenous community settings, on or off reserves.
Admission Requirements
OSSD with the majority of courses at the College (C), University (U), University/College (M) or Open (O) level qualify for admission to this program.
Mature students - See Admission Procedures for details.
Field/Clinical Placements
Employers who provide our field placement settings require a clear POLICE RECORD CHECK for criminal offences with vulnerable sector screening before accepting a student into the field placement setting. The record check MUST be obtained by the student at the student's expense. If you are unable to obtain this police clearance by mid September, you jeopardize the opportunity to complete either of your field placements.
Courses
The curriculum below is for incoming students:
Program Physical Demands Analysis
Program Vocational Learning Outcomes
Native Community Worker (Ontario College Diploma) (MTCU Code 50704)
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Develop and maintain constructive relationships with clients, colleagues, community members, community organizations, and health service agencies using effective self-management, leadership, oral and written communication skills.
- Develop responsive programs and services to promote healthy living and overall well-being of individuals, families, and the First Nation/community incorporating the First Nation traditions and practices.
- Develop program of care strategies, based on traditional or other forms of health and healing methods, applying appropriate approaches.
- Assess and respond to the effects of various forms of abuse and implement appropriate intervention and prevention techniques.
- Apply knowledge of common mental health syndromes, diseases and current social issues as well as traditional healing methods in order to support growth and development of individuals, families and the First Nation/community.
- Respond to client behavior based on information collected through observations and monitoring in compliance with professional, legal and ethical standards.
- Identify and assess strengths, challenges, resources and needs of individuals, families and the First Nation/community.
- Advocate for development of strategies that challenge historical and contemporary effects of oppression, discrimination and colonization in relation to the First Nation communities.