Sacred Synergy investigates how entheogen-assisted Indigenous healing ceremonies and land-based healing integrate into Takla Nation’s recovery programs. Its aim is to address intergenerational trauma and addiction across all stages of recovery and social reintegration. This research evaluates the role of intergenerational trauma in addictions recovery and collaborates closely with Takla Nation and its Addictions Recovery Circle (ARC). Guided by the Two-Eyed Seeing approach and Participatory Action Research, Sacred Synergy utilizes Indigenous inquiry methods like talking circles and storytelling to ensure cultural relevance and community leadership. Through collaborative inquiry, this research enables Takla nation to explore and determine how an Indigenous focused, entheogen-assisted recovery program can be adapted, while being informed by relevant research and guided by community priorities. This process ensures that it fits Takla Nation and its members’ unique cultural context.
Anticipated social benefits include fostering community wellness, reducing addiction-related isolation, and contributing to culturally safe, sustainable recovery pathways that honour Takla Nation’s traditions. This project addresses a vital research gap by centering Indigenous healing practices to tackle urgent mental health challenges in a community-led manner.