Working with Indigenous Peoples

Abstract

This chapter is a call to walk alongside and uplift Indigenous peoples and communities with humility, love, and accountability. We invite readers into a relational approach to anti-colonial practice in psychology and the helping professions. In our work relationships are not just a component of therapy; they are the very foundation of healing, centring deep respect, knowledge about the ongoing impacts of colonialism, and an unwavering commitment to safety and trust. This means showing up authentically, being willing to listen and learn, and recognizing that healing is not something we provide but something we co-create, guided by the knowledge and experiences of those we walk alongside. Together, we explore how dismantling colonial frameworks begins with unlearning deficit-based narratives about Indigenous Peoples and centring perspectives of resurgence and survivance. Supporting Indigenous communities calls for continuous self-reflection, a willingness to confront personal, professional, and systemic complicity in colonial harm, and an active commitment to growth and change. By honouring the autonomy of Indigenous Peoples to define health and healing on their own terms, practitioners can create spaces rooted in respect and cultural safety. Healing is a shared journey of remembering and reclaiming wholeness, and while the path ahead may be challenging, it is one we must walk together toward a future where all can live well.

Authors

Gwendolyn Villebrun is a Dene/Métis and a member of K’atl’odeeche Dene First Nation, Northwest Territories. She resides in Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton, Alberta), Treaty 6 territory. She is an assistant professor in the counselling psychology program in the Faculty of Education at the University of Alberta. As a registered psychologist since 2005, she serves predominantly urban First Nations, those impacted by the Indigeous Residential Institutions, and children who have experienced abuse.

Melissa Jay is a cisgender nehiyaw (Cree) member of the Métis Nation of Alberta and lifelong student of yoga philosophy. She is a psychologist and associate professor at Athabasca University and one of the editors of this book. Her work is centred in reciprocal relationships, decolonized healing, anti-oppressive practices, and the integration of ancient wisdom and psychology.

Citation

Villebrun, G., & Jay, M. (2025). Counselling considerations for working with Indigenous people. In S. Collins and M. Jay (Eds.), Decolonizing health, healing, and care: Embodying culturally responsive and socially just counselling (Chapter 8.5). Counselling Concepts. https://doi.org/10.71446/kd38266945