Author Archives: Jennifer Kohlhammer
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Siksika Health Services Joins Siksika Akokatsin
Leave a CommentSiksika Nation’s annual Akokatsin (Sundance) is a most sacred time of the year, considered a celebration of our Siksika way of life, and the beginning of a new year. At this year’s Akokatsin, Siksika Health Services’ CEO, Angie Sarsons, received prayers and was honored with a traditional name, joining another of our Siksika Health team members, Taryn, part of our communications team, who also stepped forward to receive this meaningful recognition.
This involvement was made possible through Siksika Health Services’ Traditional Wellness program, part of our broader Community Wellness initiative, which supported the Akokatsin and requested prayers for our Siksika Health Board of Directors, new management team, our staff, and entire Siksika Nation community.
“Receiving a traditional name in ceremony is a moment I will carry for the rest of my life. I’m grateful beyond words to be welcomed and recognized in this way. Having been CEO with Siksika Health Services for four months now, I can absolutely affirm my care for this community, and as leaders I believe we must actively participate in the traditions that guide us, not just support them in policy. I will honor this name with respect, love, and responsibility, and thank everyone who has made space for me and shared such a sacred part of our community culture.”
~ Angie Sarsons, CEO Siksika Health Services
Our Siksika ways and cultural traditions serve as a vital pillar, connecting us to our roots and guiding our path forward. When our leadership and teams actively participate in these sacred practices, it reinforces our values and shows genuine respect for the customs that shape who we are as people, as an organization, community, and Strong Nation. This involvement strengthens the bonds between our workplace culture and our traditional heritage, creating a more unified and purposeful environment for everyone.
Many thanks to all who made this possible: Herman Yellow Old Woman, Kent Ayoungman, Joanne Red Old Man, Leanne Sleigh (Traditional Wellness Coordinator), Pauline Yellow Fly (Community Wellness Team Leader), Jackie Weasel Fat, Maryann Buckskin, Crystal Sparrow, Tangee Scalplock, Jennifer Kohlhammer, and more. We encourage all staff and community members to watch for future ceremony announcements. These events are open to everyone, and participation is always welcomed. By coming together in these traditional practices, we continue building bridges between our professional missions, and the cultural foundation that supports and inspires our work.
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Alberta Mental Wellness Crisis Team Deployed to Support Siksika Nation
Leave a CommentSiksika Nation has experienced significant loss over recent weeks. The need for emotional support is constant; families are dealing with trauma, grief, and substance abuse issues.
In response to these critical needs, four specialized experts from the Alberta Mental Wellness Crisis Team have been deployed have been deployed to work alongside our Crisis Team to support Siksika Nation members families, and community: Sara Singer, MWCRT Coordinator – Trauma and emotion regulation; Brad Straty – First Responder; Carol Dion – Cultural Support; Jessica Henderson – OAT and Harm Reduction. They will provide stabilization services, emotional support, and conduct family check-ins throughout our community.
The deployment team will be available from Sunday, August 10, to Tuesday, August 12, 2025, from 10 am-6 pm each day. Contact the Hope Support Line at 403-734-1212 to get connected.
This additional support will also provide relief to our Siksika Crisis Intervention Team members, many of whom have been personally affected by these losses.
Further support services will be determined based on ongoing community needs and the assessment of our Siksika Health teams.
If you or your family need assistance, please reach out. No one should face these challenges alone, and help is available.
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Siksika Health Services and the College of Alberta Psychologists Unite in Binding Commitment through Traditional Ceremony and Signed Memorandum of Understanding
Leave a CommentFOR 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
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Siksika Parks & Recreation Feedback Form
Leave a CommentSiksika Parks & Recreation Feedback Form
To share your feedback about Siksika Parks & Recreation, please complete the form below. Your responses will be kept confidential, and you can choose whether or not to share your name and contact details.
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June 30-July 3, 2025 Heat Warning for Siksika Nation
Leave a CommentStaying Healthy in Extreme Heat
During periods of extreme heat, everyone is at an increased risk, including your pets. These conditions can increase heat related illness and increase the risk of fire and power outages.
We can all prepare for extreme heat by:
– Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids like water (about 1 cup for every 15-20 minutes that you’re in the heat). This the most important thing you can do to stay health and safe during a heat wave.
– Know the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion: feeling dizzy and light headed is a sign of heat stroke. Lack of sweating is also a sign of heat stroke, that could require a visit to the hospital.
– Limit exposure outdoors. Stock up on key supplies such as groceries, medications, and drinking water to avoid the need to take extra trips outside.
– Ensure you have extra cooling options by freezing ice or ice packs, and chill water in spray bottles so you can cool yourself down.
– Check that cooling appliances are in working order (fans, air conditioners) and have back-up options that don’t require power (i.e. cold washcloths).
– While its tempting to access public water ways such as the Bow River, please be mindful of the potential dangers of strong current, debris, and visibility as the spring runoff is still occurring.
Further tips can be found at alberta.ca/ExtremeHeat
For more information on weather conditions, visit the Environment Canada website or download the WeatherCan app to your smart phones or devices
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Fire Restriction Lifted for Siksika Nation
Leave a CommentSiksika Nation has lifted it’s Fire Restriction, issued May 8, 2025.
With the recent moisture that has fallen and as the humidity has risen, the Fire Restriction issued on May 8/25 has been LIFTED until further notice. Siksika Nation is now under a Fire Advisory, meaning that open camp fires can occur, charcoal briquets can be used for cooking, and approved fire pits can be used.
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Dr. Quintina Bearchief-Adolpho Elected Board President of Psychologists’ Association of Alberta
Leave a CommentSiksika Health Services is proud to announce that Siksika’s own, Dr. Quintina Bearchief-Adolpho has been elected President of the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta’s (PAA) Board of Directors. Quintina, or “Dr. Q” as she is known as by colleagues and friends, is the first Indigenous President of PAA’s Board of Directors, and the second First Nations Board President of all psychologist associations in Canada. As Dr. Q identifies in the June 2025 edition of the PAA’s Psymposium magazine (https://psychologistsassociation.ab.ca/psymposium/), “This is a testament to PAA’s focus on incorporating the Calls to Action developed by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.”
The Psychologists’ Association of Alberta serves as the voice of, and for, psychology in Alberta. As a voluntary body, the PAA advocates for psychology in Alberta, informs the public and the media, and advocates for consumers of psychotherapy, psychological, and mental health services. The Mission of the PAA is to advance the science-based profession of psychology and to promote the well-being and potential of all Albertans.
As Board President, Dr. Q ensures that the Board and CEO work collaboratively to address the needs and concerns of all psychologists in Alberta, with a particular focus on those serving the Indigenous population. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Q to this role; we look forward to the positive impact that her leadership will bring to the profession and the communities served by the PAA!
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Unveiling of New Siksika Elders Bus!
Leave a CommentWe are thrilled to announce the unveiling and ribbon cutting ceremony for our new Siksika Elders bus! This exciting milestone has been made possible through the generous support of Healthy Aging Alberta (HAA) in partnership with United Way Calgary and Area, which provided funding to expand our community-based assisted transportation services for our Kaah’siinooniiks and adults aged 55 plus, including those individuals with mobility challenges in our community.
This much-needed funding will allow us to better serve community members who want to maintain their independence but face barriers to accessing essential services due to transportation challenges. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the arrival of our new bus; when you see it out and about around the community, give them a wave! Many thanks to our Siksika Elders Lodge and Siksika Elders Services teams, with the support of our CEO and Board of Directors for making this a possibility.
