the OG psychologies

Métis psychologist Dr. Karlee Fellner introduces some of the foundational tenets of Indigenous psychologies, drawing upon the story of iskotew (“fire” in Plains Cree) and Crow. iskotew discovers that the Crow disturbing her for years is, in fact, offering vital wisdom that’s meant to help herself, her ancestors, and all two-leggeds. In contrast to mainstream mental health frameworks that individualize, pathologize, patronize and reactively treat, ancient psychologies offer collective and intergenerational perspectives on suffering and healing that honour the wisdom that emerges through survivance and emphasize wellness as both prevention and intervention in mental health.