Supporting those with Mental Health & Addictions – An Indigenized Co-occurring model with Ernie Cardinal

Date: Tuesday, May 24, 2016

.Expanding on his last UBC Learning Circle session,  An Indigenous lens on co-occurring disorders – mental health & addictions, front line co-worker Ernie Cardinal will join us for the second time on May 24th, 2016.

Diving deeper into the subject matter the Cree presenter, a member of the Sucker Creek First Nation, will examine the Indigenized co-occurring model he uses with the sessions participants, while weaving stories through the co-occurring disorders subject matter. With a background in Child, and Youth Care Counseling along side of his education with the Co-Occuring Disorders Citation program Cardinal’s passion is supporting those struggling with mental health and addictions.

Session Video:

PDF version of his PowerPoint presentation:

Supporting Those with Mental Health & Addictions

TALKING POINTS:

1. What benefits are there to using an Indigenized co-occurring disorders model in supporting those with addictions and mental health challenges?
2. How are Belonging, Mastery, Independence and Generosity practiced within an Indigenized co-occurring disorders model?
3. What are some stories of success with the Indigenized co-occurring disorders model?

About The Presenter:

Ernie Cardinal: As a youth Cardinal’s life was entrenched with drinking, drugs, bouts of homelessness, jail and living in a dangerous way.  At 17 years old, an Alberta ranch for boys helped Ernie in his healing journey. When a fire in the barn killed most of the animals; 12 newborn goats were left requiring care from the youth. Cardinal was placed in charge of two of these newly born goats. The feedings every two hours taught Ernie how to care, while he watched them grow up. This experience tied in with his Mom’s love, and volunteering at the Friendship Center helped him transform his life. His employment history and academics focus on supporting those who are most vulnerable.