Pathways | Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) Skills Indigenous Group

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) Skills Indigenous Group

Indigenous Services and Mental Health - Adult & Senior

Provided by Mind Space (formerly known as CBT Skills Group Society)

The Indigenous CBT Skills Group provides a culturally-adapted Cognitive Behavioural Therapy program specifically designed to support self-identifying Indigenous peoples (First Nation, Metis, or Inuit) living in British Columbia.

This new 8-week group, led by Indigenous physicians facilitators, has been developed to emphasize the connection between thoughts, feelings, and actions, offering tools to identify and shift unhelpful patterns. The program aims to empower participants to understand and manage their emotions, challenge negative thoughts, develop healthy coping strategies, and live a more meaningful and fulfilling life in alignment with their values. See program poster for info.

Woven through the program are:

Indigenous perspectives: Incorporating teachings, stories, and practices that resonate with Indigenous cultures.
Emphasis on self-compassion: Treating oneself with kindness and understanding.
Practical exercises: Including mindfulness practices, thought records, and behavioural experiments.
Real-life examples: Illustrating how to apply the skills in everyday situations.

Who: This group program is for self-identifying Indigenous adults, 17.5+ years old.
A referral would be appropriate for patients who struggle with:

Mild-moderate anxiety or depression (PHQ 9 score of 18 or less)
Adjustment disorders (stress causing symptoms, and/or affecting ability to function in relationships, parenting, or at work/school)
ADHD or other difficulties with executive function
Caregivers coping with stress related to looking after dependents
Chronic medical conditions with associated mental distress
Perfectionism
Chronic pain
Substance Use Disorder, in at least early remission OR would not interfere with cognitively demanding group-based learning. Please note: Participants who are intoxicated will be asked to leave group.
Eating disorders (medically stable)
Mild trauma related disorders. If dissociative symptoms are present, these are mild and would not interfere with group based learning

Referral: Referral is required from a family doctor, walk-in doctor, or nurse practitioner to determine participant suitability. In the absence of a primary care provider, connect with the First Nations Health Authority Virtual Doctor of the Day (1-855-344-3800). Refer using this one universal referral form. Referring MRP must agree to follow the patient for the duration of the referral. Note:

If the referrer finds someone not currently suitable for referral, then the patient and provider can work together to find a plan and treatment to get to a place where they are then able to be referred. This is to maximize everyone's learning and experience in the group, as when symptoms are severe this can make group sessions too challenging and a more individualized approach is needed until the patient is ready for a group.

When: The program consists of eight weekly 1.5hr group medical visits.

Where: Virtual (Zoom).

Cost: $65 refundable deposit if participant attends a minimum of 7 out of 8 sessions. Refunds for the $65 can take up to 4 weeks after the group ends to be processed. If there is a financial barrier to participating, patients can contact Mind Space by email hello@mind-space.ca to explore lower deposit options, including an option to omit deposit if needed to participate in a group.

Public email: hello@mind-space.ca

Website: http://mind-space.ca/

Cost: Fees may apply