The Role of the Elder within a Mainstream Addiction and Mental Health Hospital: Developing an Integrated Paradigm

Abstract

This paper outlines the role of an Elder working as a full partner in a therapeutic environment with a Western trained mental health team. Research for the article is based on observation and interviews with the Elder and the team mental health staff. This article provides insight into one of the many roles that Elder Vern Harper has within a mainstream hospital setting. Elder Vern Harper participates in counseling sessions with Aboriginal clinicians trained in Western healing intervention. Within these sessions Elder Vern Harper provides traditional teachings and healing. Many clients have indicated that this two-pronged approach gives them the best of both worlds as they are provided insight into their problems both from an Aboriginal perspective as well as from a western clinical perspective.