Description
This interactive course explains what crisis is, how trauma and strong emotions show up, and why historical and ongoing colonization contributes to higher levels of distress in Indigenous communities. Participants learn how experiences such as residential schools, child welfare involvement, racism, and loss of land and culture continue to affect trust, safety, and interactions with services today.
The training highlights Indigenous ways of supporting people in crisis, including cultural teachings, ceremony, language, music, drumming, and the use of Sacred Medicines. The Seven Grandfather Teachings guide how to respond with humility, respect, honesty, bravery, wisdom, truth, and love.
Participants also learn simple, effective de‑escalation techniques through an Indigenous lens—such as staying calm, listening without judgment, giving choices, respecting personal space, and focusing on safety rather than control. The training emphasizes that anger and agitation are often signs of distress, not intent, and that building trust and connection is key.
Learning Outcomes
- Recognize how colonial history shapes Indigenous experiences of crisis
- Use culturally respectful approaches to support Indigenous people in distress
- Apply trauma‑informed de‑escalation skills that promote calm and safety
- Reflect on your role and commit to culturally safe crisis response practices
- Develop an understanding of crisis with an Indigenous lens
- Learn how to bridge western crisis intervention methods with Indigenous knowledge to promote healing, resilience, and de-escalation without relying on confrontation or force
- Discuss how to apply a culturally safe, trauma-informed response
Who Should Attend
This course is recommended for health care professionals, social workers, child welfare professionals, mental health professionals, educators, law enforcement, and any professionals who interact with individuals.
Course Dates & Format
October 22 & 23, 2026, 1:00pm – 4:00pm ET
This is a 6-hour training. This course consists of two 3-hour interactive virtual sessions using Zoom.
Instructor: Cristine Rego, MSW, RSW
Cristine is a proud member of Lac Seul First Nation and has been actively working to improve health outcomes for her people. She has many years’ experience working with First Nations, and in developing curriculum and delivering education. She is an experienced trauma social worker. She is a sought-after speaker with experience in trauma work, cultural safe practice, TIC, and other issues relevant to Indigenous peoples.
Training Fee
Member Fee: $205 + $26.65 (HST) = $231.65
Non-Member Fee: $240.00 + $31.20 (HST) = $271.20
Group Registration: Save 20% off individual fee with group registration of 4 or more participants. Download the group registration form HERE.
Continuing Education Information
Licensing boards and professional organizations will grant Continuing Education credits for attendance at their discretion when participants submit the course outline and certificate.
In-Service
This is available as an in-person or virtual in-service training and customized to suit your needs.
