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Expert Indigenous Family Healing Services in Canada

Melissa Davies is a First Nations Health Authority provider with specialized training in Indigenous family healing and intergenerational trauma recovery. She holds a Master of Counselling degree and is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC #21936) licensed by the Province of British Columbia. Her practice combines evidence-based therapies like CBT and DBT with holistic healing approaches including Reiki and somatic energy work. Melissa currently works directly with Indigenous children and families who have experienced sexual abuse and intergenerational trauma, bringing over eight years of holistic healing experience to her clinical practice.

You get flexible session options including in-person visits in Nanaimo, phone sessions, or secure online counselling throughout British Columbia. Melissa offers both 50-minute and 90-minute sessions to accommodate different healing needs. Her approach welcomes all cultures and integrates traditional healing methods with modern therapeutic techniques. The practice provides direct billing with most extended health insurance plans, making treatment accessible when you need it most. Free 15-minute consultations help ensure the right fit before you commit to your healing process.

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Healing Families, Honouring Culture: Indigenous Family Healing That Understands Your Experience

Indigenous families carry unique strengths alongside the weight of historical trauma, systemic barriers, and ongoing challenges that mainstream therapy often fails to address. At Bee Here Counselling, we recognize that healing happens when cultural identity is honoured, not overlooked. Melissa Davies, a First Nations Health Authority provider with specialized training in working with Indigenous children and families, understands how intergenerational trauma affects entire family systems and creates ripple effects across generations.

Our approach combines evidence-based methods like cognitive behavioural therapy and somatic therapy with respect for traditional healing practices and cultural protocols. We work with families affected by sexual abuse, residential school impacts, child apprehension trauma, and the daily stress of navigating systems that weren’t built for Indigenous people. Sessions focus on rebuilding family connections, developing healthy communication patterns, and strengthening cultural identity as a source of resilience.

We welcome clients from all cultural backgrounds and provide specialized support for Indigenous families through our First Nations Health Authority provider status, which means many services are covered at no cost to you. Whether your family needs support with communication challenges, healing for children, or addressing trauma that spans generations, we create a safe space where your family’s cultural values guide the healing process.

What Is Indigenous Family Healing?

Individual counselling is a one-on-one therapeutic process where you work directly with a trained counsellor to address personal challenges, mental health concerns, and life transitions. At Bee Here Counselling and Therapy, our Indigenous Family Healing service provides culturally responsive individual counselling that honours traditional healing practices while integrating evidence-based therapeutic approaches. This personalized support helps you process trauma, manage anxiety and depression, develop coping strategies, and build emotional resilience. Sessions create a safe, confidential space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. We address conditions including post-traumatic stress disorder, intergenerational trauma, grief and loss, substance use concerns, and relationship difficulties. Our approach combines methods like cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness practices, and somatic therapy with cultural teachings and ceremonies when appropriate. Individual counselling sessions are tailored to your unique needs, cultural background, and healing goals, whether you’re dealing with recent challenges or long-standing patterns that no longer serve you.

Ready to begin your healing process with culturally informed individual counselling? Contact Bee Here Counselling and Therapy today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward wellness and balance.

Watercolor illustration of bumblebee visiting colorful wildflowers in pink, blue and purple representing therapeutic growth and natural healing through Bee Here Counselling RCC services on Vancouver Island

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Benefits of Our Indigenous Family Healing

Looking for support with our Indigenous Family Healing?

Let’s have a caring conversation.

Like bees that find their way home, we all seek a place of comfort and belonging. At Bee Here Counselling and Therapy, we create that safe space where you can simply ‘Be’ – authentically yourself. Together, we’ll explore your path to healing, pollinating your life with new perspectives and nurturing growth one step at a time. We serve Indigenous Family Healing to anyone within the Canadian provinces of British Columbia, Saskatchewan or Ontario with multiple types of insurances accepted and covered.

Book your initial appointment here

Our Process for Indigenous Family Healing

Step 1

Initial Contact and Consultation

Begin with a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation to discuss your family's unique needs and cultural background in a safe, judgment-free space
Share your story at your own pace while our counsellor listens with respect for Indigenous traditions, values, and healing practices
Ask questions about our approach to family healing, confidentiality, and how we honour Indigenous ways of knowing alongside evidence-based therapies
Explore flexible scheduling options including in-person sessions in Nanaimo, secure online meetings, or phone consultations to accommodate your family's preferences
Discuss practical details such as session length options (50 or 90 minutes), insurance coverage through extended health benefits, and direct billing availability
Feel reassured that there's no pressure to commit—this conversation simply helps determine if Bee Here Counselling feels like the right fit for your family's healing journey
Receive clear information about next steps, including how to book your first full family session and what to expect during the intake process
Know that your family's cultural identity, traditions, and healing practices will be respected and integrated into your therapeutic experience from the very beginning

Step 2

Assessment and Collaborative Planning

We begin with gentle conversation about your family's story, strengths, and current challenges. This isn't a test. It's about understanding your unique journey and what brought you here today.
Together, we explore your family's cultural background, traditions, and values that are important to your healing process. Your Indigenous identity and community connections are honoured as sources of strength throughout our work.
We use simple questionnaires about emotions, relationships, and daily experiences to better understand how everyone is feeling. These tools help us see patterns and identify areas where support would be most helpful.
Your family actively participates in setting goals that feel meaningful and achievable. We discuss what healing looks like for your family and create a roadmap that respects your pace and priorities.
We develop a personalized treatment plan that may include traditional counselling approaches, cultural practices, family activities, and holistic healing methods like mindfulness or creative expression.
Throughout this process, you remain in control of your family's healing journey. We work as partners, adjusting our approach based on what feels right and what's working best for your family.
We ensure all family members feel heard and respected, creating space for different perspectives while building on the natural bonds and resilience already present in your family system.
By the end of our assessment phase, you'll have a clear understanding of next steps, session frequency, and how we'll measure progress together as your family moves forward on this healing path.

Step 3

Active Treatment Phase

Weekly therapeutic sessions incorporating Indigenous healing practices, traditional talking circles, and culturally-grounded approaches that honour your family's unique journey and ancestral wisdom
Family constellation work exploring intergenerational patterns, healing historical trauma, and strengthening connections between family members through storytelling and ceremony
Integration of land-based healing when possible, including nature connection exercises, seasonal ceremonies, and traditional practices that ground your family in cultural identity and community belonging
Collaborative goal setting and progress review ensuring your family's voice guides the healing process while celebrating small victories and adjusting approaches based on your family's evolving needs
Skill-building sessions focusing on healthy communication patterns, conflict resolution rooted in Indigenous values, and emotional regulation techniques that respect traditional ways of being
Cultural reclamation activities supporting your family in reconnecting with language, traditions, and practices that may have been disrupted, fostering pride and resilience in your Indigenous identity
Between-session practices including family rituals, gratitude ceremonies, and mindful activities that strengthen bonds while supporting individual healing and collective growth
Regular check-ins and treatment adjustments ensuring the therapeutic approach remains responsive to your family's progress, cultural needs, and emerging strengths throughout the healing journey

Step 4

Step 4: Progress & Completion

Regular progress check-ins using culturally appropriate assessment tools that measure emotional well-being, family connection strength, and cultural identity integration to track your healing journey
Celebration of milestones achieved through traditional ceremonies or meaningful rituals that honour your family's cultural practices and acknowledge growth
Development of a personalized maintenance plan incorporating Indigenous wellness practices, family support systems, and ongoing connection to cultural teachings
Flexible completion options that respect your family's pace and readiness, allowing for natural transitions while maintaining therapeutic gains
Access to booster sessions and seasonal check-ins to support continued growth and address any emerging challenges within your family system
Connection to community resources and Indigenous support networks that can provide ongoing cultural and spiritual nourishment beyond formal therapy
Creation of a family wellness toolkit featuring traditional practices, communication strategies, and healing rituals that can be used independently
Long-term follow-up support available through phone, online, or in-person sessions across British Columbia, Ontario, and Saskatchewan to ensure sustained healing and growth

Taking Your First Step Toward Healing

Starting your healing journey takes courage. We understand that reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, especially when you're carrying the weight of family trauma or intergenerational pain. This first step is about connection. It's about finding your voice. And it's about discovering that you don't have to walk this path alone.

What to Expect During Initial Contact

Your journey begins with a gentle conversation. We offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation where you can meet Melissa Davies, share what's bringing you here, and ask any questions that are on your heart. This consultation happens however you feel most comfortable—by phone, online, or in person at our Nanaimo office.

During this initial conversation, there's no pressure to share everything. We simply want to understand how we might support you and your family. Melissa will listen to your concerns, explain how Indigenous family healing works, and help you determine if our approach feels right for your situation.

Your Comfort and Safety Come First

We recognize that many Indigenous families have experienced harm within healthcare systems. Our approach honours your cultural identity and family traditions. Melissa creates a space where your experiences are validated, your strengths are recognized, and your healing happens at your own pace.

You'll never be judged for your family's struggles or your own coping strategies. Instead, we focus on the resilience that has carried your family through generations and build upon those existing strengths.

Multiple Ways to Connect

Email	[email protected]
Online Booking	Schedule your free consultation through our secure booking system
Phone	Call during business hours to speak with someone directly
In-Person	Visit our welcoming office at 1601 Bowen Road, Nanaimo

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I'm not sure counselling is right for my family?That's exactly why we offer the free consultation. Many families feel uncertain at first. This conversation helps you explore your options without any commitment.

Will you understand our cultural background?Melissa has specialized training in working with Indigenous families and understands the unique impacts of intergenerational trauma. She approaches each family with cultural humility and respect for your traditions.

What if my family members aren't ready to participate?Healing can begin with one person. Sometimes individual work creates positive changes that naturally encourage other family members to join the process when they're ready.

How do I know if this will help?Every family's healing journey is unique. During your consultation, we'll discuss your specific situation and help you understand how our approach might support your family's goals.

Is my information kept private?Absolutely. All conversations and sessions are completely confidential, following professional counselling standards and respecting your family's privacy.

What Happens Next

After your initial consultation, if you decide to move forward, we'll schedule your first full session. This might be individual counselling, family sessions, or a combination approach designed specifically for your family's needs. Sessions can happen in person, online, or by phone, depending on what works best for everyone involved.

Remember, reaching out is already a powerful step toward healing. Your family's story matters, your pain is valid, and your healing is possible. We're here to support you every step of the way.

Ready to begin? Contact us today to schedule your free 15-minute consultation and take the first step toward healing for you and your family.

Step 2: Assessment & Goal Setting

Your healing journey begins here. This step creates the foundation for everything that follows.

We listen deeply. We understand your unique story. And together, we map out a path that honours both your challenges and your incredible strengths.

What Happens During Your Assessment

Think of this as a collaborative conversation rather than a clinical evaluation. Your intake session lasts about 50 minutes and can happen in person at our Nanaimo location, online, or by phone across British Columbia, Ontario, and Saskatchewan.

We'll explore your current concerns using gentle, evidence-based tools. These might include brief questionnaires about mood patterns, anxiety levels, or sleep quality. Nothing invasive. Nothing overwhelming. Just thoughtful questions that help us understand how you're feeling right now and what support would be most helpful.

Some families find it helpful when we use structured conversations about family dynamics. Others benefit from creative assessments like drawing or storytelling, especially when children are involved. We adapt our approach to what feels right for your family's unique situation and cultural background.

Setting Goals Together

Your goals drive everything we do. We don't impose our agenda on your healing process.

Maybe you want to improve communication between family members. Perhaps you're seeking to heal from intergenerational trauma. Or you might be working toward rebuilding trust after a difficult period. Whatever matters most to you becomes our shared focus.

We use a collaborative goal-setting process that honours Indigenous values of holistic wellness. This means we consider not just symptoms, but your emotional, spiritual, physical, and relational wellbeing. We also explore how your cultural identity and community connections can support your healing journey.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Essential Items	Helpful Preparation
Government-issued ID Extended health insurance information Any relevant medical or previous counselling records List of current medications	Reflect on what brought you to seek support Think about what you hope to achieve Consider any cultural practices important to your healing Prepare any questions about our process

Understanding Our Assessment Tools

We use several gentle assessment methods. Brief questionnaires help us understand patterns in your mood and daily life. These aren't tests you can pass or fail. They're simply tools that give us insight into your experience.

For families, we might use conversation guides that explore how everyone communicates and connects. With children, we often incorporate play or art-based activities that feel natural and engaging rather than clinical.

Cultural assessment is particularly important in our work. We explore how your cultural background, traditions, and community connections impact your wellbeing. This helps us ensure our approach aligns with your values and beliefs.

Common Concerns About Assessment

"Will you judge my family situation?"Never. We approach every family with deep respect and cultural humility. Your experiences are valid, and we're here to support, not judge.

"What if I don't know how to answer the questions?"That's completely normal. We'll work through everything together at your pace. There are no wrong answers, only your authentic experience.

"Will this information be kept private?"Absolutely. We follow strict confidentiality guidelines. Information is only shared with your explicit consent or in rare situations where safety is at immediate risk.

"How long before we see results?"Every family's timeline is different. Some notice shifts within a few sessions, while deeper healing often unfolds over months. We'll regularly check in about your progress and adjust our approach as needed.

After Your Assessment

We'll create a treatment plan together. This isn't something we do to you, but something we develop with you. The plan will reflect your goals, honour your cultural background, and incorporate approaches that resonate with your family's needs.

You'll leave this session with clarity about next steps. You'll understand our recommended approach. And you'll feel heard, respected, and hopeful about the healing journey ahead.

Remember, this assessment marks the beginning of a partnership. We're walking this path together, honouring both your wisdom and our clinical expertise as we work toward the healing your family deserves.

Step 3: Active Healing Through Indigenous Family Therapy

Now the real work begins. Your family enters the heart of the healing process, where ancient wisdom meets modern therapeutic practice. Each session becomes a sacred space for transformation.

What Happens During Your Sessions

Every session follows a gentle rhythm. We start with connection. How is everyone feeling today? What has shifted since we last gathered? This check-in honours each family member's voice and creates safety for the work ahead.

The therapeutic work forms the core of our time together. We might begin with a talking circle, where each person shares without interruption. Sometimes we explore family stories through art therapy, letting colours and shapes express what words cannot capture. Other sessions focus on somatic practices, helping your bodies release trauma held deep within.

Mindfulness based stress reduction techniques ground your family in the present moment. Breathwork connects you to ancestral practices of healing. When appropriate, we incorporate cognitive behavioural approaches to address specific thought patterns that no longer serve your family's wellbeing.

Each session closes with integration. We reflect on insights gained and plan how to carry this healing into daily life. You receive specific practices to strengthen your family bonds between our meetings.

Therapeutic Approaches We Use

Approach	How It Helps Your Family
Circle Practices	Creates equal voice for all family members while honouring Indigenous communication traditions
Art and Creative Expression	Allows emotions and stories to emerge through creative means when words feel insufficient
Somatic Healing	Helps release trauma stored in the body through gentle movement and awareness practices
Mindfulness Practices	Develops present moment awareness and emotional regulation skills for the whole family
Narrative Therapy	Reclaims your family's story and separates problems from people's identities

Between Session Practices and Homework

Healing happens beyond our therapy room. Your family receives specific practices designed to strengthen your bonds and continue the healing process at home.

Daily Connection Rituals: Simple practices like sharing gratitudes or checking in with each family member help maintain the closeness we build in sessions.

Mindful Breathing Together: Five minute family breathing practices that calm nervous systems and create shared peaceful moments.

Story Sharing: Structured ways to share family stories, both challenging and celebratory, that honour your heritage while processing difficult experiences.

Creative Expression Projects: Art, writing, or music activities that help family members process emotions and communicate in new ways.

Nature Connection: Spending intentional time outdoors together, recognizing the healing power of connection to the land.

Gratitude and Strength Journals: Individual and family practices that highlight resilience and positive aspects of your relationships.

How We Track Your Family's Progress

Progress looks different for every family. We use multiple ways to understand how your healing journey unfolds.

Regular Check-ins: Each session begins with honest conversation about what's working and what needs adjustment in your family dynamics.

Emotional Wellbeing Assessments: Simple questionnaires that help us understand stress levels, mood changes, and relationship satisfaction over time.

Family Strength Mapping: Visual tools that show how your family's resilience and connection grows throughout our work together.

Goal Setting and Review: Monthly conversations about your family's healing goals and how well current approaches support your vision for change.

Feedback Circles: Structured opportunities for family members to share what they appreciate about the therapy process and suggest modifications.

Your Role in the Healing Process

You are the experts on your family. Our role is to provide tools, create safety, and witness your courage as you do this important work.

Your active participation makes all the difference. This means showing up authentically to sessions. It means practicing new skills at home, even when they feel unfamiliar. Most importantly, it means trusting your family's innate wisdom while remaining open to new ways of being together.

Some weeks will feel easier than others. Healing rarely follows a straight line. We expect setbacks and celebrate small victories equally, knowing that both contribute to your family's growth.

Support Between Sessions

You're not alone between our meetings. We provide multiple forms of ongoing support to ensure your family feels held throughout this process.

Brief check-in calls when families need additional support during challenging weeks
Resource sharing including books, videos, and community connections that support your healing
Crisis support protocols that ensure safety while respecting your family's autonomy
Connection to Indigenous community resources and cultural events when appropriate
Flexible scheduling that accommodates your family's changing needs

Remember, this healing work honours generations who came before you and creates a legacy for those who follow. Every step forward matters. Every moment of courage contributes to breaking cycles that no longer serve your family's highest good.

We're honoured to walk alongside your family during this sacred time of transformation.

Step 4: Celebrating Growth & Planning Your Continuing Journey

You've walked a powerful path of healing. Now we honour your growth and plan for the road ahead.

This final step isn't really an ending. It's a transformation. You've developed new strengths, rebuilt connections, and reclaimed parts of yourself that trauma may have hidden. Together, we'll celebrate these victories and create a plan that supports your ongoing wellness.

Recognizing Your Progress

Healing shows up in many ways. Some changes feel dramatic. Others whisper quietly into your daily life.

We'll use several approaches to understand your growth:

Wellness questionnaires that measure changes in mood, anxiety, and daily functioning compared to when you first arrived
Family relationship assessments that explore how connections have strengthened and communication has improved
Cultural connection surveys that honour how you've reconnected with traditions, ceremonies, and community ties
Personal reflection exercises where you identify the most meaningful changes in your own words
Goal achievement reviews that celebrate the specific objectives you set and accomplished during your healing journey

Signs You're Ready for This Transition

Readiness looks different for everyone. You might notice you're sleeping better. Family conversations feel easier. Cultural practices bring joy instead of pain. You handle stress without feeling overwhelmed.

Common indicators include:

Emotional Wellness	Family Connections	Cultural Healing
Feeling emotions without being controlled by them	Communicating needs clearly and kindly	Participating in ceremonies with peace and presence
Managing difficult memories with healthy coping strategies	Setting boundaries that protect while maintaining love	Sharing stories and traditions with confidence
Experiencing hope and excitement about the future	Resolving conflicts through understanding rather than avoidance	Feeling pride in your Indigenous identity and heritage

Your Maintenance Plan

Wellness requires ongoing care. Like tending a sacred fire, healing needs regular attention to keep burning bright.

We'll create your personalized maintenance strategy together:

Daily practices such as morning gratitude, evening reflection, or traditional prayers that ground you
Weekly activities including family time, cultural events, or personal ceremonies that nourish your spirit
Monthly check-ins with yourself using simple questions about your emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being
Seasonal rituals that honour natural cycles and provide regular opportunities for deeper reflection
Crisis planning with clear steps to take if old patterns resurface or new challenges arise

Ongoing Support Options

You're not walking alone. Our commitment to your wellness continues beyond formal counselling.

Available support includes:

Booster sessions scheduled every three to six months to maintain progress and address new goals
Family tune-ups when relationships need additional support or when family dynamics shift
Crisis support available by phone or video call when urgent situations arise
Community resource connections linking you with Indigenous cultural centres, support groups, and healing circles
Referral coordination if specialized services become needed for medical, legal, or educational support

Celebrating Your Transformation

Take a moment to truly see how far you've come. The courage it took to begin this journey. The persistence through difficult sessions. The willingness to be vulnerable and trust the process.

Your healing ripples outward. It touches your children, your partner, your extended family, your community. By doing this work, you've contributed to breaking cycles of pain and creating new patterns of wellness for generations to come.

This is sacred work. You are a sacred being. Your healing matters.

Looking Forward

The tools you've learned become part of you now. The insights you've gained shape how you move through the world. The connections you've strengthened provide ongoing support and joy.

Remember that seeking support again isn't a sign of failure. It's a sign of wisdom. Life brings new challenges, transitions, and growth opportunities. We're here whenever you need us.

Your healing journey continues with each sunrise, each family meal, each moment you choose wellness over old patterns. You carry the strength of your ancestors and the hope of future generations.

Walk in beauty. Walk in strength. Walk knowing you are worthy of all the love and healing you've created.

Start your healing journey

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Expert Indigenous Family Healing Services in Canada

Healing Families, Honouring Culture: Indigenous Family Healing That Understands Your Experience