Supporting the Future of Grassy Narrows Youth
At Grassy Narrows Mental Health Services, we recognize that the health and well-being of our children and youth are essential for the community’s future. Our programs are designed to provide culturally sensitive, holistic care, ensuring that young people have the tools they need to thrive emotionally, mentally, spiritually, and physically.
Through a combination of traditional practices, modern therapies, and community support, we aim to address the unique challenges faced by the youth of Grassy Narrows while empowering them to reconnect with their culture and identity.
Culturally Rooted Healing
Traditional Healing Practices: Smudging, sweat lodges, storytelling, and guidance from Elders play a vital role in helping youth feel connected to their community and spirituality.
Medicinal Knowledge: Elders and knowledge keepers guide youth in understanding the natural medicines of the Boreal Forest, reinforcing the importance of environmental health.
Education and Skills
Leadership and Skills: Our leadership training and workshops help youth develop confidence and practical skills, empowering them to take active roles in their community.
Building the Future: We involve youth in shaping mental health programs and initiatives, fostering resilience, responsibility, and a stronger connection to their community.
Mental Health Education in Schools
Our school-based programs integrate mental health literacy with traditional Anishinaabe teachings. We offer age-appropriate psychoeducation from Grade 1 through high school, equipping youth with tools to manage stress, build resilience, and understand emotional health.
Youth Counseling and Therapy
Culturally informed individual and group counseling sessions for youth experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, or the effects of trauma. Our approach combines modern therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with traditional healing practices.
Recreation and Land-Based Healing
Land-based programs such as hunting, fishing, berry picking, and seasonal gatherings help reconnect youth with nature, cultural practices, and spiritual traditions. These activities promote physical and mental health while nurturing a sense of belonging.
Trauma-Informed Care for Youth
Our school-based programs integrate mental health literacy with traditional Anishinaabe teachings. We offer age-appropriate psychoeducation from Grade 1 through high school, equipping youth with tools to manage stress, build resilience, and understand emotional health.
Crisis Intervention for Youth
Immediate support is available for youth facing mental health emergencies. Our crisis team provides culturally sensitive care, emergency safety planning, and connections to ongoing services.
Peer Support Groups
Our youth peer support programs create safe spaces for young people to share their experiences, learn coping strategies, and support one another. These groups reflect traditional Anishinaabe values of mutual care and storytelling.
Youth and Elder Mentorship
Bridging generations, our mentorship programs pair young people with Elders to foster cultural education, wisdom sharing, and emotional support. These relationships help youth gain a deeper understanding of their heritage while building intergenerational bonds.