Centering Indigenous Joy in Healing Praxis

In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, the focus of this presentation will be highlighting Indigenous and traditional knowledge and wisdom in healing practices. In particular, this presentation will focus on pathways that can cultivate and support cultural connections and kinship practices that promote generational well-being (O’Keefe et al., 2022). Throughout this presentation, Dr. Fish will integrate insights from her clinical practice in addition to her research on the cultural and historical factors that influence Indigenous health and wellness (Fish et al., 2023). Specifically, she will discuss the role of storytelling, the land, ancestors, and other cultural practices in enabling Indigenous peoples to reclaim joy in their daily lives (Indigenous Joy Collective, 2024). Additionally, Dr. Fish will discuss the significance and implications of Indigenous healing practices in the context of the American Psychological Association’s commitment to account for and ameliorate past wrongs, including those affecting Indigenous peoples (Fish et al., 2024). 

Participants will be able to:
1. Describe the relationship between joy and its role in promoting generational well-being.
2. Demonstrate a basic understanding of what could be considered an Indigenous healing practice.