Work

Healing Pathways: Outcomes of First Nations-led, Culturally Informed, and Trauma-integrated Training

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This pilot study explored participant reflections on culturally informed, trauma-integrated training led by Australian First Nations organisation We Al-li. Using an Indigenist narrative yarning approach, we engaged 10 diverse professionals who completed We Al-li training over the past 30 years to explore personal, professional, community, organisational, and systemic outcomes. Data were cocreated through group and individual yarns and analysed using thematic and creative visual methods. Findings suggest that the training fosters deep personal healing, cultural reconnection, and readiness to embed trauma-integrated practices in health and human service contexts. Participants described shifts in self-awareness, relational practice, and advocacy for culturally safe approaches, while identifying challenges such as isolation and organisational constraints. These insights highlight the transformative potential of Indigenous-led healing frameworks and the need for sustained wraparound supports and systemic change. Future research should employ Indigenist mixed-method designs to examine long-term impacts and inform policy and professional education in social work and allied fields.IMPLICATIONS Community- and culture-led responses to healing the effects of historical and ongoing colonial trauma have shown promise.More research is needed to identify how healing may be amplified and passed on intergenerationally and how workers can be supported through communities of care and practice.

Source: Australian Social Work

DOI: 10.1080/0312407x.2026.2710196