Developing an Aboriginal Healing Model for Intergenerational Trauma

Abstract Over the past decade, intergenerational trauma as an explanation for the array of social conditions that exist within Aboriginal communities has been put forward by a number of researchers. This study explored the family histories of 21 Aboriginal men at a homeless shelter, seeking links between personal homelessness and intergenerational trauma. The indicators of intergenerational trauma within four domains are synthesized in the Intergenerational Trauma Model. Recognizing that the healing of intergenerational trauma at the individual level must include family, community and nation, traditional Aboriginal healing practices including healing circles, sweat- lodge, fasting, vision quest and other ceremonies can augment mainstream interventions and motivate the individual to further explore their deep rooted pain. Healing within the intergenerational trauma framework is a slow complicated process and is a difficult journey both for the therapist and the client.