Network for Aboriginal Mental Health Research
Namgis Treatment Center
Abstract:
The Namgis Treatment Center offers a 6-week program for both men, women and couples, 19 years and up. It provides individuals with an awareness of themselves and brings to their attention their ability to make their own decisions. The Centre attempts to meet the needs of people who have a desire to be treated for alcohol/drug addiction in a caring and nonjudgmental environment. Non-status Indians and non-Native people are eligible for treatment when sponsored by the Ministry of Children and Families.
Project Director:
Rick Vopel
Health Administrator, Namgis Treatment Center
PO Box 290
Alert Bay, British Columbia
V0N 1A0

Phone 250-974-5522
Key Components
- Culture and reconnection with culture are important components. - Self-esteem/awareness and trust building. - Raised awareness of the damage to self from alcohol and drug use. - Assist participants to take responsibility for their own choices.
Use of traditions or ceremonies
Circles are utilized for sharing. Sweetgrass, sage and cold water cleansing are incorporated. Participants are encouraged to attend community gatherings, pot-latch, feasts, etc. Traditional practices from other Nations across Canada are welcome.
Role of Elders
Two sessions are facilitated by Elders during each 6-week session. An Elder shares teachings on traditional medicines (plants) and storytelling two days out of each 6-week session.
Role of youth
None
Evaluation Design
Statistics are submitted to FNIHB on a quarterly basis, as is an annual report. Evaluations of participants are conducted weekly and retained on record. A final 'anonymous' evaluation is performed at the end of each six week session.
Evaluation Results
Overall the feedback from participants has been positive.
Resources
A pamphlet has been developed.
Funding Information
Funding Source: First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB) - Health Canada
Funding Program: National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program (NNADAP)
Amount: $700,000.00 per year
Start Date: 1984
End Date: Ongoing
Coummunity Served: Alert Bay, Comerant Island and the rest of Canada
Number of people Served: 110 - 115 per year
Grantee Contact
Patrick Davis
Program Manager, Namgis Treatment Center
PO Box 290
Alert Bay, British Columbia
V0N 1A0

Phone 250-974-5522
Fax 250-974-2736
Email PatD@namgis.bc.ca
Information Last Updated: 2007-06-11
Network for Aboriginal Mental Health Research (NAMHR), Culture & Mental Health Research Unit,
Jewish General Hospital, 4333 Côte Ste Catherine Road, Montreal, Quebec, H3T 1E4,
Tel.: 514-340-8222 x5244 | Fax: 514-340-7503 | Email