A new partnership between Acho Dene Koe First Nation and Tsow-Tun Le Lum Society is expanding access to healing and addiction recovery for members of the N.W.T. community through an Indigenous-led program on Vancouver Island.
Beginning this June, ADK members will have priority access to four annual treatment intakes at Tsow-Tun Le Lum’s new healing house located in Cowichan Territory, B.C.
“This partnership is about creating a safe place where our members can heal from the impacts of colonization. We want them to know they don’t have to carry that pain alone,” said Nola Jeffrey, executive director at Tsow-Tun Le Lum.
Tsow-Tun Le Lum, which has been operating since 1988, offers trauma-informed programming that blends traditional Indigenous teachings, ceremonies, and land-based healing with Western and Eastern therapeutic methods, according to Jeffrey.
Participants may attend programs focused on substance use, trauma, grief and loss, and stabilization, with each designed to reflect Indigenous ways of knowing and being.
Jeffrey emphasized that the healing journey starts well before arrival.
“They need a referral worker, someone who helps them prepare… Healing is fairly intense. Our substance use program is six weeks long, and they have full days.”
Healing never stops. After leaving, participants will receive eight weeks of virtual aftercare support.
A highlight of the new facility is its intentional design. Built during the COVID-19 pandemic, the healing house features 32 beds, rooms for gender-diverse and mobility-challenged individuals, and spaces such as a sweat lodge and spiritual room.
Elders play a central role, with new ones arriving each week to offer teachings and guidance, Jeffrey said.
“Each individual carries their own wisdom, and my responsibility is to help people heal and reconnect with that inner knowledge.”
A session room inside the healing house is designed to support trauma-informed, Indigenous-led healing and recovery. (Photos courtesy of Nola Jeffrey/ Tsow-Tun Le Lum)
The collaboration came together smoothly thanks to Mandy Cormier, health and social development advisor at ADK, who helped bridge the two organizations.
The partnership also helps fill a critical gap, Jeffrey said. There are currently no Indigenous-run healing houses in the N.W.T. This agreement opens a clear path for ADK members to access culturally safe care that respects and reflects their identities and lived experiences.
Those interested in the June intake or future programming are encouraged to reach out early. Intake requirements vary. For example, six months sobriety is needed to access the trauma program, while one month is required for grief and loss.
For more information or to register, contact Mandy Cormier at: mandycormier@adkfirstnation.ca; or call:778-675-1482
