Neurodecolonization Through Two-Eyed Seeing: Reclaiming Mind, Body, and Spirit
Abstract
This presentation explores decolonizing the brain, drawing on the work of Dr. Michael Yellow Bird, a leading Indigenous neuroscientist and scholar who calls for healing the impacts of colonization through mindfulness, ceremony, and Indigenous knowledge systems. Combined with the Mi’kmaq guiding principle of Two-Eyed Seeing, this session offers an integrative framework for healing that honors both Indigenous and Western understandings of the brain, trauma, and resilience.
Participants will examine how colonial systems have shaped neural pathways, emotional regulation, and collective disconnection—and how Indigenous practices, when centered and reclaimed, offer powerful tools for healing. This presentation weaves together neuroscience, somatic practices, cultural teachings, and trauma-informed care to support personal and community transformation. Review of research on how culture heals the brain and most importantly how land restores in the Indigenous trauma brain to an Indigenous healing brain.
Learning Objectives
- Define neurodecolonization and understand its roots in Indigenous resistance and healing.
- Explain the principle of Two-Eyed Seeing and how it can be applied to trauma recovery, mental health, and personal growth.
- Identify ways in which colonial systems shape brain development, identity, and relational trauma.
- Explore how Indigenous practices (e.g., ceremony, land-based practices, language, circle) regulate the nervous system and promote healing.
- Begin to reflect on their own healing, cultural connection, and positionality through a neurodecolonial lens.
- Define decolonizing the brain and explain its significance in Indigenous health and wellness, as
described by Michael Yellow Bird. - Understand how colonization impacts brain structure, stress responses, and identity formation.
- Describe the principle of Two-Eyed Seeing and how it can be used to bridge Indigenous and Western understandings of neuroplasticity, trauma, and healing.
- Identify how Indigenous practices (ceremony, mindfulness, land connection, community) support brain healing and resilience.
Presenter
Leigh-Anne Sheldon, B.A., M.C.| R.Psych
Mrs. Sheldon Cree name (pihphichow) is a Registered Psychologist from Swan River First Nation with extensive experience in both clinical practice and academia. She has a background in Indigenous Psychology and LifeSpan Development, having taught these subjects at University nuhelot’įne thaiyots’į nistameyimâkanak Blue Quills in 2023.
In 2021, Mrs. Sheldon founded Indigenous Psychological Services (IPS), an organization that now boasts a team of 33 practitioners across offices in Edmonton, Calgary, and Enoch Cree Nation. Indigenous Psychological Services is now opening up across Canada. With a career in the mental health field that began in 2003, Mrs. Sheldon has worked extensively in northern communities, supporting Healthy choices for Indigenous families. Her experience includes six years as a clinical supervisor at Night Wind Treatment Center in Edmonton, where she played a pivotal role in creating a treatment program development that incorporates the Wheel for Change, a model honoring Indigenous cultural practices. She was also a clinical lead in The Edmonton Drug Court Treatment Center in 2014.
Mrs. Sheldon is a complex trauma specialist with certifications in several therapeutic modalities, including Somatic Attachment Practitioner, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, and EMDR. She is also trained in Polyvagal Theory and Indigenous Focused Oriented Therapy.
Her approach integrates Indigenous trauma-informed techniques, particularly those rooted in the Two Eyed Trauma Wheel, within a clinical setting. She blends cultural practices with evidence-based therapies, creating a holistic healing model that respects Indigenous knowledge systems. Mrs. Sheldon’s work also delves into the impacts of colonization, historical trauma, systemic racism, and oppression. She practices Two-Eyed Seeing, acknowledging the importance of both Indigenous and Western healing approaches and the role of land-based healing in modern therapy.
Mrs. Sheldon’s unique expertise allows her to bridge traditional Indigenous healing practices with contemporary psychological therapies, creating a culturally respectful and effective therapeutic environment for Indigenous clients.
Cancellation and Refunds
Cancellation and refunds may be applied for by email or phone call to the PAA CPDO. Cancellations received fourteen (14) days prior to the Continuing Professional Development activity will receive a full refund of the registration fee, less a $35.00 + GST processing fee. PAA reserves the right to cancel any activity, in which case a full refund of the registration fee will be provided.
Continuing Education Credits
The Psychologists’ Association of Alberta (PAA) is approved by the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) to offer Continuing Education (CE) for psychologists. This workshop is offered for four (4.0) hours of CE Credit. Full attendance at the workshop is required to receive Continuing Education Credits. Partial credit will not be awarded, and late arrivals or early departure will preclude awarding of Continuing Education Credits. PAA maintains responsibility for the program.
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