LifeWorks launches the first Indigenous iCBT program nationally

New service for First Nations and Métis Peoples available through LifeWorks iCBT platform

TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--LifeWorks, a leading provider of digital and in-person total wellbeing solutions, today announced a new internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) program for Indigenous Peoples.

Sixty per cent of Indigenous Peoples reported worsening mental health due to the pandemic, found a Statistics Canada survey. Coupled with increased counselling wait times, the need for quick and effective support is critical for a population already facing accessible healthcare issues. LifeWorks Indigenous iCBT, developed in collaboration with Indigenous community members (First Nations and Métis) and allies, will deliver specialized mental health support integrating Indigenous cultural and spiritual concepts within clinical frameworks to provide tailored support and solutions.

Indigenous iCBT program highlights include:

• Video program teachings created and reviewed by Jim Compton, a veteran Indigenous journalist.
• Guided therapists who are either Indigenous or experienced Indigenous allies, and that have or will receive specialized training by Noojimo Health, the program’s Indigenous mental health partner.
• Addresses depression and anxiety from diverse Indigenous cultural viewpoints and builds upon existing LifeWorks iCBT modules that have 93 per cent of participants indicating it helped them advance toward their goals.
• Provides mental health support modules through Indigenous storytelling and teaching mediums, which are engaging and have interactive visual elements to help minimize accessibility barriers.

Comments from Linda Naranjit, senior clinical director, LifeWorks iCBT, integrated health solutions
“Over the last few years we have worked with many First Nation and Métis community members to develop our new iCBT program. From learning and leaning on their wisdom, expertise, and partnership, we are able to better understand mental health concerns specific to Indigenous Peoples, which in turn helped us create a tailored and culturally respectful iCBT service.”

Comments from Jim Compton, veteran Indigenous journalist
“As an Indigenous person, I know that many in my own community and communities across Canada continue to deal with the lasting impacts of colonial and systemically unjust systems every day. That is why this new iCBT service will be critical in not only helping Indigenous Peoples access mental health support, but in a way they feel culturally connected to.”

Indigenous iCBT will be launched on June 21, National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada.

About LifeWorks
LifeWorks is a world leader in providing digital and in-person solutions that support the total wellbeing of individuals. We deliver a personalized continuum of care that helps our clients improve the lives of their people and by doing so, improve their business.

ID-CAD, ID-CORP, ID-MH