[smelltheroses]

I am Cherokee, German, Finish. Aka American; raised European american. My best friend is Menomonee and has family on the reservation. I am still in pre-reqs for RN. Anyways, I am interested in working to help Native American Indians. I feel that good healthcare is a way to keep the culture alive. My question is what are the differences in healing and healthcare in a nut shell. You said that it is harder to trust healthcare pro. Culturaly, I know you are explaining offences, ect., but how are we to be understood as genuine and understanding? I have known Native Americans that were very spiritual people with their culture and have known a few that have very different views. As I am sure is true for many cultures. I guess I am having a hard time to articulate my question. How do we know what areas and what patients are following certain beliefs? Where to expand on that? I would like to do further research on I guess the psychology of the matter. Any advice would be helpful. Thank you.

[nativehealer]

Smelltheroses, lets take this one question at a time.

but how are we to be understood as genuine and understanding?
First you need to gain their trust and their faith, which I believe that you already do. With that you are able to build a relationship with them on providing health care.

How do we know what areas and what patients are following certain beliefs?
As strange as it sound, sometimes it's just a matter of asking them. With a foundation of trust and faith, the NAI will be more open and willing to explain their beliefs.

I would like to do further research on I guess the psychology of the matter.
Thunderwolf, Siri, and I have giving several areas in which to help you do research.
You can also surf the net looking up the variuos tribes you may interact with. Also, talk to the people that you will be working with. We, the NAI, are a library of information. You already have the key to open doors, just believe in yourself and in what you are doing. Once you open your heart and listen, a whole new world will open up for you.
If you have any other question, please feel free to post them here or send a P.M. to the moderators of this forum.

Nativehealer