Through an Ontario Autism Program Innovation Grant, a collaboration between Garden River Wellness Centre (GRWC) and Algoma Family Services
(AFS) was formed and a working group (Maamwimadibiwag - They Sit Together) was established. The working group included Indigenous families with
lived experience, Knowledge Keepers, GRWC staff (e.g., service providers, family support worker), and AFS staff (e.g., psychologist, counsellors)
and guided project activities to ensure meaning for First Nations families. Together we piloted a new way of engaging families in relevant and
meaningful assessment, and created a project guided by Indigenous ways of knowing. We also co-developed workshops and community stakeholder
events to build stronger relationships between families, service providers, and local Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Our work highlights the importance of including and integrating Indigenous perspectives, teachings, and practices directly into psychological
assessment, and we acknowledge Indigeneity and culture as a meaningful source of health, wellness, and healing.
