A Continuum of Care
Orca Lelum delivers the right care, in the right place, at the right time, guided by a framework that provides a culturally sensitive and medically informed approach to supporting Indigenous youth contending with substance use challenges and mental health needs. This Indigenous-led model:
- Integrates clinical and cultural approaches
- Responds to varying levels of need
- Recognizes trauma, relationships, and developmental context
Live-In Wellness Program
Weaving Indigenous Healing with Clinical Supports to Build Lasting Change. Orca Lelum's Live-In Wellness Program has been operating since 2024. It is a voluntary, structured, and immersive program for Indigenous youth 12-18 years old who are experiencing mild substance use and mental health challenges. Youth live on-site for 9-10 weeks, allowing space to focus fully on healing and growth.
Health & Wellness
- Access to nutritional support, healthy meals, and lessons on nourishing the body
- Medical support and access to healthcare professionals for physical wellbeing
- Access to mental health support and services that promote emotional and mental wellbeing
- Collaboration with Orca Lelum's Care Team to create individual care plans tailored to the needs of the youth
Cultural Activities
- Teachings include traditional crafts such as weaving, painting, story-telling, drumming, and singing
- Traditional ceremonies include blanket ceremonies, cedar brushings, spirit baths, and other healing rituals
- An introduction to traditional medicines, plants, and healing approaches
- Connection and guidance from Elders and Knowledge Keepers
Recreational Activities
- Nature-based experiences that strengthen connection to the land
- Physical activities like mountain biking, hiking, yoga, swimming, and fishing
- Access to a kinesiologist and occupational therapists to support active movement
- Access to creative spaces for expression in art and music therapy
Therapeutic Services
- One-to-one counselling support
- Peer support and group counselling circles
- Inclusive support aimed at family wellness
- Equine therapy, including individual and group sessions with horses
- Specialized care for understanding and healing from trauma
Community & Skill Building
- Practical skills development for daily living and independence
- Tutoring and programming to support educational goals
- Job readiness support including resume building and job-search support
- Opportunities to give back to community and strengthen a sense of purpose
Aftercare & Goal Planning
- Tools and strategies to prevent relapse and maintain healthy living
- Wellness planning and goal-setting beyond the live-in program
- Post-program referrals and support for accessing community resources
- Up to 3 months of continued connection with the Orca Lelum team
Please visit our Admission Guidelines page for more information about joining this program.
Coming Soon
Withdrawal Management Program
Orca Lelum's dedicated medical team will offer withdrawal management services for youth with moderate substance use challenges at a new, purpose-built Withdrawal Management Centre. This service will be delivered within a culturally rooted, trauma informed medical environment to support Indigenous youth for 7-14 day withdrawal management stays.
Throughout their wellness journey, youth will be supported with intentional transition planning that prioritizes continuity of care, safety, wellbeing, and a sense of belonging. Transitions may include movement from the Withdrawal Management Program into the Live-In Wellness Program or bridging back to community with ongoing supports and continuing care.