An Explanatory Sequential Mixed Methods Assessment of the Perceived Impact and Efficacy of Ceremony-Assisted Treatment For American Indians Seeking Treatment For Substance Use Disorders at Oaye Luta

University Of North Dakota, Grand Forks ND

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Abstract

The rates of substance use (SU) among American Indians (Als) are higher than those of the general U.S. population and have a substantial impact on Al communities, including the number of health disparities. There is a lack of local treatment availability for many Tribal communities, and the available services often do not treat the whole person, nor do they recognize the importance of practicing traditional Al ceremonies. Al communities are now focusing less on deficit-based clinical methods used in Western sciences, instead investing in traditional ceremonies to foster spiritual and emotional healing and consequently reduce rates of SUD.9 As Tribal communities begin to employ traditional ceremonial practices as a form of Ceremony­ Assisted Treatment (CAT), it is imperative that Indigenous health scholars research the efficacy of these interventions. Oaye Luta Okolakiciye (OLO) is a Lakota-based nonprofit 501c3 organization "that promotes healing by providing continuum substance abuse prevention, intervention, and recovery education reconnecting inherent cultural potential while instilling hope, promoting wellness, and revitalizing cultural identity development in youth, adults, families, and communities." Located in Rapid City, South Dakota, OLO has been treating individuals through CAT since 2015. Recognizing that this type of CAT is novel, not yet reimbursable, and has yet to be measured for its efficacy, this explanatory sequential mixed methods research project aims to explain the perceived impact and efficacy of CAT for Als seeking care for SUDs through Oaye Luta Okolakiciye (OLO) in Rapid City, South Dakota. This mixed methods CBPR case study will identify the strengths and weaknesses of the CAT services offered through OLO from the perspective of Als utilizing OLO's services. The intent is to inform and improve practice and identify whether there is evidence for piloting larger-scale CAT interventions to prevent and treat SUDs among other Tribal communities. This will help develop an evidence base to ensure eligibility of CAT as a reimbursable service.