Indigenous cultures have long understood that mental wellness is deeply connected to every aspect of our lives- our physical health, emotions, spiritual well-being, and relationships with the world around us. One of the most profound and widely recognized symbols of this holistic worldview is the Medicine Wheel. This is more than a visual representation; it is a guiding philosophy that offers balance, healing, a respect for the natural order of life and interconnectedness in all areas.
“Practicing from an Indigenous mental health perspective differs significantly from many Western mental health approaches. Historically, Western psychology has been practiced from a mostly individualistic perspective, focusing on understanding oneself, recognizing personal patterns, and achieving individual potential.
When working with Indigenous clients, therapists must be aware of the history of harm caused by colonization in Canada. Without this awareness, there is a risk of causing further harm and a tendency to overlook the strength and resilience in clients’ stories of how they and their communities have survived and resisted colonization.
Practicing from an Indigenous lens involves considering both intergenerational trauma as well as strength, community, relationship to land and place, and holistic wellness. Wellness can be conceptualized in relation to the medicine wheel, which seeks balance in physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. “
At its core, the Medicine Wheel represents the fundamental belief that health and wellness are achieved through harmony and balance. It is a visual tool used to compartmentalize knowledge and promote health and well-being across four quadrants, and can impact self, family, community, and nation. These quadrants are all sacred and interrelated, with the wheel symbolizing cyclical patterns in nature and life.
When one of these aspects is out of balance, it can affect overall well-being. Indigenous healing practices often focus on restoring equilibrium among these four areas, rather than addressing issues in isolation.
The Medicine Wheel is also closely tied to natural rhythms and cycles. The four sections of the wheel traditionally correspond to the cardinal directions (East, South, West, and North), as well as the different stages of life (birth, youth, adulthood, elderhood) and the changing seasons (spring, summer, fall, winter). This cyclical perspective reminds us that life is constantly shifting, and healing is an ongoing journey rather than a destination.
One of the most powerful teachings within Indigenous cultures is the belief that mental wellness is not solely an individual responsibility, rather it is a shared commitment within a community. Healing happens not just through personal effort, but through the collective support of family, friends, and elders. Many Indigenous traditions emphasize the importance of communal gatherings, storytelling, ceremonies, and shared experiences as part of the healing process. This philosophy mirrors the African concept of Ubuntu, meaning “I am because we are.” It reinforces the idea that our mental health is deeply intertwined with the well-being of those around us. Whether through shared meals, group ceremonies, or simply being present for one another, fostering a sense of connection is a crucial part of healing and resilience.
While the Medicine Wheel offers a framework for balance and healing, it is also important to acknowledge the deep historical and intergenerational trauma experienced by Indigenous communities, which stems from historical injustices, such as residential schools, forced displacement, and cultural suppression. This trauma is passed down through generations, affecting mental health, relationships, and identity. Counselors must recognize its deep impact, providing trauma-informed, culturally safe, and strengths-based support. Healing requires honoring Indigenous resilience, integrating traditional knowledge, and fostering trust, self-determination, and community connection in the therapeutic process.
At Journey Counselling, we acknowledge the wisdom of Indigenous practices and incorporate holistic approaches to healing. You are not alone in your journey- healing happens in connection with others! If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, reach out to our empathetic counsellors.
First nations perspective on health and wellness. (n.d.). Retrieved March 12, 2025, from First Nations Health Authority.
Mashford-Pringle, A., & Shawanda, A. (2023). Using the Medicine Wheel as theory, conceptual framework, analysis, and evaluation tool in health research. SSM – Qualitative Research in Health, 3, 100251.
