At OPCC, we recognize that the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th holds deep significance, especially for those in Indigenous communities still grappling with the enduring effects of historical trauma. This day is an important time to honor survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities, as well as to reflect on our role as mental health professionals in the journey toward healing and reconciliation.
On this day, we have an opportunity to engage with the painful yet vital truths about the history of colonization and its ongoing impact on the mental health of Indigenous peoples. It’s a moment to pause and reflect on how we, as practitioners, can contribute to repairing the harm caused by systemic inequities and cultural erasure. Educating ourselves about the history of residential schools and the intergenerational trauma they’ve inflicted is a key part of this process. Reading the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, particularly those relating to health and mental health, is one way to begin deepening our understanding.
Honoring this day also means ensuring that our clinical practice is culturally informed and sensitive to the unique experiences of Indigenous clients. Acknowledging their histories and incorporating their cultural perspectives into the therapeutic space can foster greater trust and healing. It’s about recognizing that Indigenous worldviews, traditions, and healing methods are essential aspects of mental health care for these communities. By embracing this knowledge, we can be more supportive and effective in our work.
One of the most powerful things we can do today, and every day, is to listen. Listening to the voices of Indigenous individuals and communities with respect and humility allows us to better understand their needs, their strengths, and their stories of resilience. Whether it’s through engaging in community events, hearing survivors’ testimonies, or simply providing space for our clients to be heard, this act of listening is a profound way to honor their experiences.
It’s also a time for us to reflect on our own roles and responsibilities in the systems we work within. As mental health professionals, we hold a certain degree of power and privilege, and it’s crucial to consider how this plays out in therapeutic relationships. By acknowledging these dynamics, we can strive to make our practices more inclusive and empowering for Indigenous individuals.
Lastly, we can take meaningful steps by supporting Indigenous-led mental health initiatives and services. Whether through donations, volunteer work, or amplifying the voices of Indigenous healers and leaders, we can actively contribute to initiatives that center Indigenous knowledge and leadership in mental health care.
The National Day of Truth and Reconciliation is not only about looking back but also about moving forward—toward a future where mental health services are more equitable, inclusive, and healing for all. As professionals in this field, we have a unique responsibility and privilege to be part of that journey. Together, through understanding, advocacy, and culturally respectful care, we can contribute to a more just and compassionate future.
We encourage you to explore the link below to learn more about Truth and Reconciliation.
Amy McGrath, MA, OPCC Dipl. Psych.
Registered Psychotherapist #001033
CEO & Educational Director OPC College
Member CCPA & CAPT