The University of Victoria is the first institution in Canada to offer a master’s degree in Indigenous Communities Counselling.
The three-year program covers both indigenous and western healing methods, as well as touching on the importance of spirituality, ceremony and counselling across generations.
“The program will directly address the current urgent need for professional counsellors who are able to provide culturally relevant counselling services to Indigenous individuals, families and communities,” said Anne Marshall, director of UVic’s Centre for Youth and Society.
A release from the university says most of the 14 students enrolled are indigenous, and will work in their respective communities upon graduation.
In 2011-12, 19 students graduated with the degree through a pilot program. The program officially launched in late January.
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