Family Program

Restoring Balance: Grief & Loss

Short adult programs

Grief doesn't always look like grief. It can look like numbness, anger, addiction, disconnection, or just a heaviness that won't lift.

Grandmothers, Aunties & Caregivers

1-2 week program

This program explores the traditional Indigenous roles of Women in our families and communities. Programming will address multi-generational trauma stemming from the Residential School Legacy. 

Note this program is different than the Rebuilding the Circle (RTC) Grandmothers' session, which addresses trauma from sexual harm. see RTC page for more info.

Grandfathers, Uncles & Caregivers

1-2 week program

This program explores the traditional Indigenous roles of Men in our families and communities. Programming will address multi-generational trauma stemming from the Residential School Legacy.

Please see Rebuilding the Circle's Men's Healing Program if you are interested in attending a Men's Healing gathering.

Please note this is different from the Rebuilding the Circle (RTC) Grandfathers' program, which supports healing from trauma surrounding sexual harm. see RTC page for more info.

Questions about this program?

Family Program

Family Sessions

5 week sessions

Kackaamin's core programs run on site at our Port Alberni campus. Families live here together during the program in their own housing unit, on a working schedule, with support available around the clock.

What the program covers:

Communication and emotions. Addictions and their impact on families. Cultural oppression and lateral violence. Complex trauma. Grief and loss. Healthy coping. Family recovery planning. Nuu-chah-nulth parenting. Circle of Security Parenting Program. Cultural ceremony and Indigenous healing practices. AA/NA. Community games, potlucks, and Family Fridays.

Who this program is for:

Adults with children who are at a later stage of recovery, stable enough to engage in intensive programming, and ready to commit to five weeks on site as a family. Both BC and Yukon residents are eligible. Applications are submitted per family member, with sections completed by a referral worker, doctor or nurse, and counsellor.

The wait list is typically 1–2 sessions.

This program cannot accept:

Anyone requiring detox or withdrawal management on site, including those on short-acting OAT for both adults and youth. Adults with a history or conviction of sexual violence are not able to attend this program. If domestic violence is a factor, contact the intake team before applying to discuss options.

Reasons a family may be discharged early:

In the first two weeks, the team assesses fit carefully and provides honest feedback. Early discharge may happen if someone uses substances, is unable or unwilling to engage in the program, poses ongoing safety concerns for others, or if information on the application that affects group safety was inaccurate. The team will always work to connect people with appropriate referrals and support if discharge is necessary.