The idea of the Yuasni Treatment Centre is to take a holistic approach. The facility can hold families or individuals. (submitted/Tina Pelletier)

By Susan McNeil

Holistic healing

Holistic treatment facility opens in Wahpeton

Oct 4, 2024 | 3:20 PM

The Yuasni Treatment Centre is open on the Wahpeton Dakota Nation north of Prince Albert with a goal of treating the whole person.

Representatives from Indigenous Services Canada, the Prince Albert Grand Council and the Wahpeton gathered in the facility to mark the start of something new.

“The act of colonization through displacement, discrimination and systemic racism has caused intergenerational trauma for Indigenous Peoples. Keeping Indigenous care in Indigenous hands is an integral part of the Government of Canada’s work toward reconciliation, and we will continue to support the Yuasni Treatment Centre in providing a safe space for Indigenous people on their paths to recovery,” said the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services.

Adults and families can seek out care for issues with substance abuse and have access to a range of help.

Counselling Services that support family wellness, sharing cultural knowledge, developing life skills, education and awareness are all part of it, as are land-based therapeutic activities.

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“Wahpeton Dakota Nation is honored to be the host site for Yuasni Tipi Treatment Centre located on 94B. On behalf of Wahpeton Dakota Nation we would like to thank the PMT for all their hard work. The treatment centre staff and programs will support and benefit First Nations families through their healing journeys.” Chief John Waditaka Wahpeton Dakota Nation.

Chief John Wadikata of Wahpeton (left) welcomed the opening of the centre. (submitted/Tina Pelletier)

In the almost $10 million facility paid for with federal dollars, there are six family suites with two bedrooms, two individual suites and a cultural room in the centre of the building that will be used for practices like smudging and ceremonies.

Two classrooms have been built for continuing education and a multi-purpose room will be used for physical activity, large gatherings and ceremonies.

The facility also includes two classrooms for continuing education and a multi-purpose room for physical activity, large group gatherings and programming.

The idea is to treat the whole person in a culturally safe way, said the Prince Albert Grand Council.

“Today is an important moment for our communities. The Yuasni Treatment Centre is very meaningful because it offers healing in a way that respects our traditions and cultural values. It provides families and individuals with the support they need to regain their strength and well-being. We are proud to see this facility open, and we believe it will have a lasting impact, helping many people in their journey to recovery.” Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte said.

Originally, the program was located on the Jame Smith Cree Nation and called the Sakwatamo Lodge but with the move to Wahpeton, it has been re-named the Yuasni Tipi Family Treatment Centre.

The Yuasni Treatment Centre on the Wahpeton Dakota First Nation opened on Oct. 4. (submitted/Tina Pelletier)

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susan.mcneil@pattisonmedia.com