Samaria Nancy Cardinal, MSW
Indigenous Therapy Specialist
Calgary AB
I work with individuals I warmly refer to as "wellness partners. " I emphasize a collaborative and equal relationship that diminishes the traditional power differential between therapist and client. I believe in creating a safe and nurturing space where wellness partners feel heard, valued, and empowered to explore their healing journey.
I begin by building a solid therapeutic alliance and taking the time to understand each wellness partner's unique background, experiences, and goals. My flexible and adaptive approach ensures the therapy aligns with their needs and cultural context. Incorporating traditional Indigenous practices, such as smudging and prayers, alongside modern therapeutic techniques, I provide a comprehensive and holistic healing experience.
I encourage open dialogue and active participation throughout our sessions, fostering a sense of agency and ownership in the healing process. I do not see myself as an "expert" but rather as a partner walking side by side with my wellness partners, using my toolbox of therapies, including EMDR, narrative therapy, and psychedelic-assisted therapy, to assist them on their journey of healing.
I emphasize the importance of integration, helping wellness partners process and make sense of their experiences in a meaningful and sustainable way. This includes offering tools and strategies beyond our sessions and facilitating long-term growth and resilience.
Ultimately, my goal is to guide wellness partners toward a deeper understanding of themselves and their journey, empowering them to embrace their strengths and navigate life's challenges confidently and clearly.
🌿 Hi, I'm Samaria Nancy Cardinal, the founder and lead Indigenous Therapy Specialist at Flower In The Wind Therapy. With over 20 years of experience in disability, addictions, and mental health, my journey has been deeply rooted in providing culturally appropriate therapy for Indigenous people in Alberta, Canada.
I am proud to be a Blackfoot Métis from Southern Alberta and a citizen of the Otipemisiwak Metis Government. I was raised in my culture with the guidance and wisdom of my father, who is an Elder and lodgekeeper. This rich heritage profoundly influences my approach to therapy, allowing me to integrate traditional Indigenous healing practices with modern therapeutic techniques.
I specialize in a variety of therapeutic practices, including EMDR, Indigenous-focused therapy, Intimacy from the inside-out couples therapy, narrative therapy, DBT, and psychedelic-assisted therapy. The latter, particularly ketamine-assisted therapy, has become a profound part of my practice.
My passion for psychedelic-assisted therapy stems from its unique ability to facilitate healing in ways that traditional methods may not reach. By integrating these therapies, I aim to offer a holistic approach that honours modern clinical practices and Indigenous healing traditions. This includes smudging, prayers, and referrals to Elders and traditional ceremonies, ensuring a comprehensive and culturally sensitive experience.
At Flower In The Wind Therapy, we are committed to supporting our clients through their healing journeys with compassion, understanding, and respect. Our practice offers both in-person sessions in Calgary and virtual sessions across Alberta, using HIPAA-compliant virtual therapy platforms to ensure privacy and safety.
I invite you to explore the transformative potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy with us. Together, we can navigate the path to healing and growth, honouring both the mind and spirit in a deeply meaningful and impactful way. 🌟
We do not offer any specific program at this time