Job Summary:
The Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority Traditional Wellness Practitioner will be a primary resource and a knowledge keeper who provides community cultural support and delivery of traditional wellness services to SLFNHA First Nations communities, clients, and staff. In collaboration with Anishinaabewaadiziwin team, the Traditional Wellness Practitioner will provide support, and guidance on activities that promote Pimatisiwin [Way of Life], a traditional and healing wellness framework. The framework is inclusive in bringing programs and services to increase access to educational opportunities and raise awareness of practices, such as traditional teachings, land-based activities, ceremonies, and other cultural activities that are integrated into everyday programming. Under the direction of the Director of Anishinaabewaadiziwin, the Traditional Wellness Practitioner will support the practices and protocols of Pimatisiwin [Way of Life], the traditional healing and wellness framework and its functions
Qualifications:
- Persons of First Nations ancestry will be given preference (OHRC, Part II, Special Employment).
- Ability to communicate in one or more of the First Nations dialects in the Sioux Lookout district.
- Knowledge of the people, culture, language, and the health priorities of the First Nations communities in the Sioux Lookout District.
- A college or university degree in health services and/or Indigenous learning but experiential equivalent could be accepted as determined by SLFNHA.
- Previous experience providing training preferably in First Nation traditional and cultural topics.
- Good written and oral communication skills.
- Must be willing and able to travel into the communities.
- Demonstrated understanding of and competence in, serving culturally diverse populations; knowledgeable of First Nations’ people, history, culture, health priorities and social issues.
- The ability to perform the requirements of the position on a regular basis.
Roles and Responsibilities:
- Works closely with Anishinaabewaadiziwin Team and Elders to ensure that ‘how we do things’ is consistent to the culture and values of the First Nations people and the communities that we serve.
- Collaborate with healthcare professionals and organizations to ensure a holistic approach to wellness, and integration of traditional wellness practices with modern healthcare systems when appropriate.
- Conduct educational workshops, seminars, and community outreach initiatives to promote cultural awareness, understanding, and the preservation of traditional healing and wellness practices.
- Offer traditional wellness and educational services to individuals, families, and the community by utilizing traditional knowledge, ceremonies, and herbal remedies.
- In collaboration with the Traditional Healing Practitioner, gather and prepare traditional medicines, including plants, herbs, and other natural remedies, following traditional protocols and methods.
- Assist with community ceremonies, and support services as required.
- Plan and assist in ceremonies with Traditional Healing Practitioner in accordance with cultural protocols, ensuring a safe and sacred space for participants.
- Provide cultural and spiritual support to individuals and families, incorporating traditional teachings and practices to foster personal growth and well-being.
- Provide a wholistic assessment of services in wellness and healing, taking into account the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects.
- Maintain accurate and confidential records of traditional activities and traditional healing practices while respecting cultural protocols and confidentiality requirements.
- Establish and maintain relationships with traditional healers, community leaders, and relevant organizations or institutions.
- Develop and maintain documentation, including reports, statistics, and case studies.
- Identify program practitioner goals, objectives, and outcomes based on community needs and organizational objectives.
- Develop a comprehensive workplans that supports and promotes the Pimatisiwin, the traditional healing and wellness framework and adjust as needed to meet program goals.
- Provide guidance and support to all staff.
- Other duties as assigned.
Closing Date: Open to Filled
