Bringing Indigenous knowledge to family healing
A cross-cultural, single session service
Presenters: Alison Elliott, Aunty Darlene Christensen, Kate Cordukes, Dr. Zoe Cloud
Abstract
This presentation introduces Workin’ with the Mob, a First Nations-led adaptation of the Walk-In Together (WIT) Single Session Family Therapy framework. Led by First Nations’ family therapists, this project integrates cultural knowledge into family therapy, offering a new model for engaging families in meaningful, strengths-based conversations while encouraging deeper engagement with First Nations’ perspectives. Through qualitative analysis of family and therapist experiences, we will explore how First Nations reflections shape therapeutic outcomes and relational healing for First Nations and non-First Nations families. Emerging findings will be presented, highlighting the impact of culturally embedded practices in creating safer, more inclusive family therapy experiences for families, clinicians and researchers. The session will discuss implications for systemic family therapy, reconciliation, and cross-cultural learning in mental health services.
Project Background, Aims and Context
This project built upon the Bouverie Centre’s existing investment in Single Session Thinking (SST) and the Walk-in Together (WIT) family therapy service to develop and pilot a specific First Nations-led WIT clinic that integrates First Nations cultural wisdoms into family therapy sessions for all families.
Aims:
- Develop and articulate the WIT Workin’ with the Mob clinical framework utilising First Nations cultural ways of being, including deep listening practice, the concept of the circle to hold us all, and the Aunty Judy’s 6 stages of Healing which are complemented by more recent western ideas in SST and No Bullshit Therapy (NBT).
- Understand the family member/s experience of having a First Nations family therapist present and providing a reflection during the WIT session
- Understand First Nations and non-First Nations’ therapist perspectives of delivering family therapy, while embedding First Nations practices, wisdoms and cultural perspectives
- Reduce barriers for families to access timely support and be a more responsive service.
While previous programs involving First Nations Elders have focused on the impact on First Nations clients, this initiative is the first of its kind in Australia, and potentially internationally, to extend the reach of these cultural frameworks across diverse family groups. By embedding First Nations’ knowledge into WIT sessions, the project aims to foster cross-cultural learning and healing, creating more inclusive and culturally safe environments for all participants. This innovative approach promotes systemic wellbeing by encouraging deeper engagement with First Nations’ perspectives.
Presenters
Alison Elliott
A First Nations family therapist, workforce development trainer and researcher, Alison leads the conceptualisation and implementation of the Workin’ with the Mob framework, ensuring cultural integrity and safety. She co-facilitates and supervises family therapy work and has been a teacher and reflective practice facilitator with the Bouverie Centre’s First Nations Program for several years.
Aunty Darleen Christensen
A Mulinjahli woman from the Bundjalung Nation, respected Elder, family therapist, and cultural consultant, Aunty Darleen brings deep cultural knowledge to therapy practice and research. An alumna of the Bouverie Centre’s Graduate Certificate of Family Therapy (First Nations), Aunty Darleen has since co-facilitated every Workin’ with the Mob WIT session with both First Nations and non-First Nations families. She also has extensive experience working in Victoria’s men’s and women’s prisons, including her previous work with the Bouverie Centre’s Strengthening Connections program.
Kate Cordukes
A senior non-First Nations family therapist and Clinical Team Leader at the Bouverie Centre, contributing to therapy delivery within the Workin’ with the Mob team. Kate has worked as a therapist for the past 25 years with diverse populations and settings such as Juvenile Justice, Drug and alcohol and mental health. Through this work, she has incorporated trauma informed practice and ideas to her work.
Dr Zoe Cloud
Zoe is a non-First Nations psychologist and Clinical Research Fellow at the Bouverie Centre. Her research interests focus on family and relational wellbeing, family safety, parent-child attachment, and the evaluation of intervention models. Currently, Zoe coordinates the Family Therapy Research Program at the Bouverie Centre and is the research lead for the Workin’ with the Mob project, overseeing qualitative data collection and analysis.
Voices of Non-First Nations Therapists Video
References and useful links
Atkinson, J. (2002). Trauma trails, recreating song lines: The transgenerational effects of trauma in Indigenous Australia. Spinifex Press.