September 30th marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada - a day dedicated to remembering the survivors, families, and communities affected by the legacy of residential schools and colonialism. It is a solemn occasion to reflect on a painful history, acknowledge ongoing impacts, and commit ourselves to reconciliation through empathy, respect, and action.
Between 1831 and 1996, over 150,000 Indigenous children were forcibly removed from their families and placed in residential schools across Canada. The goal was to assimilate Indigenous peoples by erasing their languages, cultures, and identities.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) revealed harrowing accounts of abuse, neglect, and loss - wounds that have passed down through generations, deeply affecting Indigenous communities.
According to the 2017 Aboriginal Peoples Survey by Statistics Canada, Indigenous peoples in Canada experience mental health challenges at disproportionately higher rates than non-Indigenous populations. For instance:
These statistics highlight the profound and enduring trauma stemming from historical and systemic injustices.
Healing begins with understanding the deep-rooted trauma many Indigenous peoples face - a trauma not only individual but collective and intergenerational. Our trauma-informed approach to assessments recognizes the importance of safety, trustworthiness, empowerment, and cultural respect at every stage.
A trauma-informed lens strives to remove barriers that Indigenous clients often encounter in healthcare, including distrust rooted in past harms, systemic racism, and cultural disconnection. To this end, MindSense assessors may travel directly to Indigenous communities to conduct assessments in familiar, supportive environments. This approach reduces stress, fosters trust, and honours the significance of place and culture in healing journeys.
We are committed to providing a space where Indigenous survivors feel seen, heard, and honoured, ensuring assessments reflect their lived experience, strengths, and cultural identities.
Importantly, MindSense also provides culturally sensitive assessments for legal proceedings and related contexts, where understanding trauma and cultural background is critical to fair and accurate evaluations. We recognize the importance of delivering these assessments with respect and care, ensuring Indigenous clients’ voices and experiences are honoured throughout often challenging legal processes.
By doing so, MindSense Canada contributes to an environment where Indigenous people can access assessments without fear of re-traumatization or marginalization.
MindSense Canada stands in solidarity with Indigenous communities, honouring their resilience and advocating for trauma-informed, culturally responsive mental health assessments. We recognize that this work is ongoing and must be rooted in respect, humility, and a commitment to equity.
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