Working in the Midst of Ideological and Cultural Differences: Critically Reflecting on Youth Suicide Prevention in Indigenous Communities

Many non-Aboriginal practitioners are interested in working effectively with Aboriginal youth, families, and communities, Honouring Indigenous ways of knowing & being informed by a critical consciousness regarding the influence of history, politics, & social forces in the emergence of suicidal behaviour among Aboriginal youth are central to this work. By uncovering assumptions & locating suicide prevention practice within specific discourses, this article demonstrates the relevance & value of critical reflection. Qualities of curiosity, collaborative meaning-making, joint knowledge construction, & ethical engagement are valuable resources for counsellors practicing at the clinical or community level. (46 refs.)