Psychology ETDs
Publication Date
Summer 2024
Abstract
American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) individuals are underrepresented in mindfulness research. Mindfulness may be relevant to some AI/AN traditions and aid in providing culturally responsive mental healthcare. This study examined the experiences of providers who use mindfulness-based interventions with AI/AN clients. Twenty-five providers completed interviews about their experiences. Three primary themes were identified using thematic analysis: 1) using a cultural lens in providing therapy, where providers integrate cultural practices and utilize a client centered approach; 2) framing mindfulness in AI/AN contexts through cultural adaptations to demonstrate the applicability of mindfulness to cultural settings; and 3) processes in implementing culturally responsive mindfulness interventions with group-based practices, cultural humility, and personal mindfulness practices. This research underlines how mindfulness-based interventions can be implemented to be culturally responsive to the needs of AI/AN individuals and highlighted the congruence of mindfulness with cultural traditions that AI/AN people have been utilizing since time immemorial.
Degree Name
Psychology
Level of Degree
Doctoral
Department Name
Psychology
First Committee Member (Chair)
Kamilla Venner
Second Committee Member
Steven Verney
Third Committee Member
Katie Witkiewitz
Fourth Committee Member
Jessica Goodkind
Keywords
American Indian, Alaska Native, mindfulness, culture, therapy
Document Type
Dissertation
Recommended Citation
Herron, Jalene L.. "“We’ve been doing mindfulness since time immemorial”: Provider Experiences Using Mindfulness-Based Interventions in American Indian and Alaska Native Communities." (2024). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/psy_etds/474
