Thesis Format
Integrated Article
Degree
Master of Arts
Program
Education
Supervisor
Brown, Jason
2nd Supervisor
Lengyell, Marguerite
Co-Supervisor
Abstract
This thesis examines the therapeutic approaches used by non-Indigenous counsellors when working with Indigenous clients. Considering the historical and ongoing effects of colonization, including intergenerational trauma and systemic barriers within the Western mental health system, Indigenous communities in Canada experience disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges and often encounter a lack of culturally appropriate care. Employing a qualitative case study method, semi-structured interviews were conducted with non-Indigenous therapists to investigate the nuances of their work with Indigenous clients. The findings revealed four themes: Indigenous cultural integration, common factors, systemic challenges (operating within a Eurocentric system), and dyadic challenges. The results of this thesis can inform understanding of the methods used by non-Indigenous therapists working with Indigenous clients, as well as identify systemic changes necessary to create more culturally safe and effective mental health services for Indigenous peoples.
Summary for Lay Audience
This thesis explores how non-Indigenous therapists approach their work with Indigenous clients, considering the unique cultural needs and historical challenges Indigenous communities face. Indigenous peoples in Canada often experience higher rates of mental health challenges, partly due to the impacts of colonization, including loss of culture, intergenerational trauma, and limited access to culturally relevant mental health care. Many Indigenous clients find that mainstream mental health services do not meet their needs, especially since most therapists are not Indigenous and may lack an understanding of Indigenous values and practices. Through interviews with non-Indigenous therapists, this thesis looks at their approaches, the education and resources available, and whether they include aspects of Indigenous culture in their work, such as connecting clients to Indigenous-specific resources. The findings show that some non-Indigenous therapists try to adapt their practices to respect Indigenous traditions and values but that systemic changes need to occur to create a mental health care environment that fully supports and aligns with the cultural needs of Indigenous clients. This research aims to help non-Indigenous therapists better support Indigenous clients, so their therapy experience is more culturally sensitive, meaningful, and effective.
Recommended Citation
Keyes, Laylin G., "Non-Indigenous Counsellors Approaches to Work with Indigenous Clients" (2025). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 10737.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/10737
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.