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Indigenous Focus Oriented Therapy (IFOT)

IFOT Therapy

Therapeutic approach that combines focusing-oriented therapies with Indigenous knowledge and healing practices to heal trauma in a culturally safe and respectful way.

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IFOT Therapy

Native Counselling and Indigenous Psychotherapy

IFOT Therapy

Indigenous Focusing-Oriented Therapy (IFOT) is a therapeutic approach that combines focusing-oriented techniques with Indigenous knowledge and healing practices. IFOT is designed to support individuals in processing trauma, particularly intergenerational and complex trauma, in a culturally safe and respectful way. Through guided self-awareness, connection to body and spirit, and the integration of traditional teachings, IFOT helps people access inner wisdom, promote healing, and restore balance. This approach honours Indigenous values, community, and holistic well-being throughout the therapeutic journey.

How does Indigenous Focusing-Oriented Therapy Work?

Indigenous-focusing oriented therapy works by centering Indigenous values, traditions, and ways of healing within the therapeutic process. Therapists create a safe, respectful space that honours each person’s cultural identity and lived experiences. Sessions may include storytelling, connection to land, ceremony, and traditional practices alongside modern therapeutic approaches.

The therapist works collaboratively with clients, recognizing the importance of family, community, and spirituality in well-being. Indigenous-focused therapy often takes a wholistic approach, addressing emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual health together. It also acknowledges the impacts of colonization, intergenerational trauma, and systemic barriers, supporting healing and empowerment in culturally meaningful ways.

Overall, Indigenous-focusing therapy helps clients reconnect with their strengths, identity, and cultural roots, fostering resilience and wellness in a way that feels authentic and respectful.

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What are the Benefits of IFOT?

IFOT offers a culturally safe and holistic approach to healing, especially for those impacted by trauma and intergenerational experiences. Benefits include increased self-awareness, emotional balance, and connection to body, spirit, and community. IFOT honours Indigenous values and traditions, helping individuals access inner wisdom, build resilience, and restore harmony in their lives. Many people find greater healing, empowerment, and a deeper sense of belonging through this supportive and respectful therapy.

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Who Would Benefit from IFOT?

People who would benefit from Indigenous-Focusing Oriented Therapy (IFOT) include:

  • Indigenous individuals and families seeking healing that honours their cultural identity, traditions, and lived experiences.
  • Anyone impacted by intergenerational trauma, colonization, or systemic barriers who wants culturally safe support.
  • People looking for a wholistic approach to wellness that addresses emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health together.
  • Those wanting to reconnect with their heritage, community, or sense of belonging in a therapeutic setting.
  • Non-Indigenous people who want to learn, grow, and heal in ways that respect Indigenous perspectives and values.
  • IFOT is for anyone who values culturally meaningful, respectful, and inclusive therapy that supports healing, empowerment, and connection.

Meet Our Team

Native Counselling and Indigenous Psychotherapy

Our Healing Services

NIHB Therapy

The Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program provides eligible First Nations and Inuit clients with coverage for counselling, including individual, family and group therapy sessions.

Group Therapy

Led by an elder or knowledge-keeper, group therapy provides a community, circle-based support for men, women and youth, where facilitators use cultural content and teachings.

Family Therapy

A family healing circle, or sharing circle, is a traditional Indigenous practice that brings families together in a safe and respectful space to share, listen and support one another.

Play Therapy

Rooted in Indigenous values, play therapy for young children honours the importance of connection to family, community and the land through play, using toys, art and storytelling.

Youth Therapy

Counselling for teenagers and youth as they navigate emotional, social, and behavioural challenges in a safe and culturally sensitive space for exploration and self-discovery.

Couples Therapy

Indigenous-informed therapy to help partners improve their relationship by working through challenges, strengthening communication, and deepening understanding.

Diagnostic Assessment

Comprehensive, evidence-based assessments across lifespan - conducted by licensed clinicians, tailored to clarify diagnosis, guide treatment planning, and support academic, occupational, and functional success.

Event Support

Specialized, on-site clinical support for conferences and events addressing high-impact or sensitive subject matters - supporting attendees navigating complex psychological landscapes.

Community Support

Formal service agreements with Nations and community-based organizations to deliver culturally responsive, trauma-informed mental health and wellness services directly within the community.

School Wellness

Comprehensive, trauma-informed, and culturally grounded mental health services within school settings - interconnected with community-building, Elder engagement, and the integration of Two-Eyed Seeing.

Family Reunited

We work alongside Child and Family Services, leadership, and caregivers to support safe, structured, and clinically informed reunification processes, while honouring traditional family systems.

Native Counselling and Indigenous Group Workshops

Our Group Programs and Workshops

Workshops for Individuals

Culturally sensitive workshops that honour diverse backgrounds and integrating Indigenous perspectives and practices to support healing, learning and connection.
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Children and Youth Group

Guided by knowledgeable facilitators, our workshops provide hands-on experience and practice tools for children and youth to inspire personal growth, healing and community.
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Men’s Group

Men can connect with others in a safe, supportive environment to share their experiences and learn from each other in a culturally sensitive and Indigenous-focused setting.
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For Therapists

Indigenous awareness training for psychologists, therapists and organizations to provide culturally safe and effective counselling services to their Indigenous clients and communities.
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Check Out Our Podcast

Native Counselling, Indigenous Psychology and Therapy

Ready to Heal?

We offer holistic healing that encompasses mind, body, spirit and emotion – providing space for story, self and growth.

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