Programs

Healing Through Wellness

Indigenous women in Alberta have long been the heart of their communities—keepers of knowledge, caregivers, and leaders. Yet, the enduring impacts of colonization, systemic inequities, and intergenerational trauma have contributed to significant health disparities, including higher rates of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart conditions. These challenges are compounded by the erosion of traditional roles and cultural practices that once supported holistic well-being.

At Esquao we have many programs to advance women such as employment, training, leadership development and housing. Involvement in the justice system, having a family member missing or murdered, or dealing with violence creates a more intensified need for Indigenous women’s wellness.

Our Healing and Wellness program offers activities and services that are in line with Indigenous values, build personal
strength and nurture long term healing. We hope to empower participants to reclaim their health and strengthen family and community bonds.

By centering Indigenous women’s voices and experiences, these initiatives not only address immediate health and wellness concerns but also contribute to meeting the recommendations from the National Inquiry on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ 231 Calls for Justice, and Alberta’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) Roadmap.

The Health & Wellness Program is currently offering the following services:

Counseling
Short-term, solution-focused therapy, designed for those dealing with grief, trauma, or emotional stress.

Medium Sessions
Individual appointments with a spiritual counselor and psychic medium who offers intuitive support for those seeking connection or clarity.

Reiki
Energy healing sessions provided by a certified reiki practitioner to support emotional and physical balance.

Dream Analysis
Insightful one-on-one sessions that help participants explore grief, messages from loved ones, and emotional patterns through dreams.

Access to Elders and Knowledge Keepers
By request, we provide connection to trusted Elders and Knowledge Keepers for guidance, cultural grounding, and traditional teachings.

Advocacy
System navigation, support with justice processes, and referrals to culturally safe services for families impacted by violence or loss.

Grief and Loss Program
A trauma-informed program grounded in both Western and Indigenous understandings of grief, offering space to reflect, connect, and begin the healing process.