Native American Mental Health Program

Native American Program at Via Linda Behavioral Hospital: Why Choose Us?

We are one of the nation’s first culturally responsive inpatient mental health programs. Developed in partnership with the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Community, our services are thoughtfully designed to help you heal.

Highlights of our program include:

• Integrated model: We blend Native healing practices with Western medicine. Staff embrace the sacredness of ceremony as treatment, giving you more treatment options. Care may include smudging for cleansing and cornmeal prayers for setting intentions and connection.
• Culturally responsive care: Services are guided by an on-staff cultural advisor/therapist who is Native American. The treatment team maintain connections with tribal partners to represent your traditions with authenticity. Staff also receive ongoing training on Indigenous beliefs and healing practices. These efforts help you feel understood and cared for, right from the start.
• Trauma-focused services: Healing isn’t just about the present. It’s also about overcoming wounds passed down through generations. At Via Linda, you receive the support to break those cycles. We help you create a healthier way of life for yourself and those who come after you.
• Welcoming space: Our program is for people seeking cultural healing, regardless of Tribe or Nation affiliation. Whether you grew up with these traditions or are just exploring them, you belong here. Participating in the traditional aspects of our program is always your choice, giving you the flexibility to engage in ways that feel right to you.

Care Philosophies Grounded in Tradition

Our Native American Mental Health Program honors the connection between heritage, community and well-being. Cultural frameworks rooted in long-standing Indigenous traditions and teachings help guide group discussions, daily learning topics and healing activities.

These frameworks include:

• Medicine Wheel: We weave the four directions of the Medicine Wheel into treatment, each representing a stage of life and core growth area. This framework supports balance across your emotional, spiritual, physical and mental health.
• White Bison model: Rooted in storytelling, this model encourages spiritual growth, reconnection and healing through tradition. Efforts include rebuilding your healing forest by restoring relationships that support your well-being.

Our Cultural Healing Services: What to Expect

Your care starts with a detailed assessment. We discuss your symptoms and the traditions and beliefs that are important to you.

Here’s what to expect:

• Traditional healing practices: We offer smudging, cornmeal prayers, basket weaving, talking circles, spiritual meditations, forest-building exercises and more. These activities help you feel grounded and strengthen your resilience.
• Western mental health therapies: Your care includes evidence-based mental health practices, such as group therapy. If you have addiction, we help you break old habits and find healthier ways of coping with challenges.
• Traditional food choices: You can find familiar foods on the menu, like Navajo tacos, pinto beans, green chile and roasted corn. Your comfort matters all day, including at mealtime.
• Family-centered approach: Your loved ones are important to your healing. We create opportunities for them to learn what you’re going through and how best to support you.
• Discharge planning: As your discharge approaches, staff work with tribal providers or community resources to help you access additional services. After discharge, you can continue the healing you started here.

Get Help Now

Call 480-476-7210 to schedule a no-cost and confidential mental health intake evaluation. For non-urgent inquiries, you can also schedule an outpatient assessment online.

In a mental health crisis, CALL 988 or seek the nearest emergency room.

For physical health emergencies, CALL 911 or get to the nearest emergency room.