Siksika Health Services and the College of Alberta Psychologists Unite in Binding Commitment through Traditional Ceremony and Signed Memorandum of Understanding
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
A significant partnership between Siksika Health Services and the College of Alberta Psychologists was officially established on June 20, 2025, through a ceremony that blended traditional Siksika protocols with modern agreement signing. The event began with a pipe ceremony led by Elder Roger Prairie Chicken, bringing together representatives from both organizations alongside Siksika Nation Ohkinniinaa ki Ninaaiks (Chief & Council) and members of the Psychologists Association of Alberta. Elder Roger Prairie Chicken indicated that this ceremony represents a stronger agreement, greater than the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that was signed. He likened this ceremony to the ceremony used when treaties were signed. Following the ceremony, participants gathered at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park for speeches from respective parties, and signing of the MOU, concluding with a shared meal that emphasized the collaborative spirit of the partnership.
While a MOU is typically a non-binding agreement, the true significance lies in the commitment and subsequent actions that flow from such partnerships. In Siksika’s traditional practices, the pipe ceremony serves as a binding element of an agreement, representing a sacred commitment between parties. This event honoured that tradition by opening with a pipe ceremony to confirm the dedication of both organizations to their shared goals.
“Entering into this MOU is one small step in building new relationships and pathways of healing in support of the delivery of safe, equitable, and culturally appropriate mental health services. The College of Alberta Psychologists is honoured to recognize the good work of Siksika Nation in providing comprehensive, multi-disciplined, and culturally appropriate mental health services to community members. We look forward to future opportunities for meaningful collaboration.”
~ Dr. Richard Spelliscy, College of Alberta Psychologists Registrar & Chief Executive Officer
“It’s not only about doing the right thing, but also about doing the right thing for the right reasons. And I think that’s what we’re doing here today.”
~ Dr. Bill Hanson, CEO Psychologists’ Association of Alberta
The agreement establishes a relationship and a framework for cooperation that recognizes and honours the unique knowledge and wisdom each organization contributes to the relationship. The partnership commits both parties to work together toward meaningful positive change while supporting healing within the communities, families, and individuals they serve. By embracing diverse perspectives and fostering inclusive dialogue, this collaboration represents a model for collaborative problem-solving that creates benefits for all involved parties, represented by the traditional Blackfoot value Ah’tsoh’tsi’ika’kii’mahn, meaning“combined efforts for a good life.”
“When looking at our purpose and intent for today: a shared commitment to healing the whole person – body, mind, and spirit – and considering the wisdom shared by the Elder during the ceremony about peace and inner strength, we recognize the significance of this collaboration. We look to the leadership of our mental health professionals like those in the room today to guide us forward in implementing these essential healing practices.”
~ Councillor Ike Solway, Board Chair Siksika Health Services
Siksika Mental Health provides mental health programs and services to Siksika Nation to help individuals address their complex trauma so they can live in the here and now. The program supports healing of body, mind and spirit by helping people connect with themselves, with others, with the Creator, and with His creation. Led by Mental Health Clinical Team Leader, Dr. Quintina Bearchief-Adolpho, who was recently elected Board President of the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta, Siksika Health’s therapists offer numerous modalities: Biofeedback, EMDR, Solution-focused therapy, Dialectic behaviour therapy, Narrative therapy, Cognitive behavioural therapy, Couples and family therapy, Internal family systems, Accelerated resolution therapy, etc., as well as innovative healing paths like psychedelic-assisted therapy, developed with partners, ATMA CENA out of Edmonton. Modalities offered are curated to address the unique priorities of Siksika Nation’s members, including the deep wounds of grief and loss, intergenerational trauma, and the impacts of socioeconomic barriers.
The College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP) is the regulatory body for the profession of psychology in Alberta. CAP regulates the profession by setting entry-to-practice requirements, and by establishing, promoting and enforcing standards for registration, practice and professional conduct for psychologists in Alberta.
With this foundation in place, Siksika Health Services and the College of Alberta Psychologists now move forward in a good way, enhancing their respective good work through partnership.
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For information contact:
Siksika Health Communications
comms@siksikahealth.com
