Therapist Directory

Bio: Samaria Nancy Cardinal Psychotherapy Biography of a Trailblazer: A Journey Through Advocacy and Healing In the heart of southern Alberta, where the spirit of the prairies meets the resilience of Indigenous heritage, emerges a woman whose life story is a testament to the power of perseverance, compassion, and unyielding advocacy. Born into the Blackfoot-Metis community, she would come to embody the strength and wisdom of her ancestors, navigating through life’s most formidable challenges to become a beacon of hope for many. From an early age, she understood the significance of her heritage, carrying the legacy of a culture steeped in the virtues of respect, care, and the inherent connection to the land and its people. This profound grounding laid the foundation for her life’s work in disability, addiction, mental health, and healthcare advocacy—fields that, while immensely challenging, are also replete with opportunities for profound human connection and transformation. Her path was not without obstacles. Victim to the very mental health care system she sought support from, she encountered addiction, homelessness, and trauma—experiences that could have veiled her future in despair. Yet, it was these trials that honed her resolve, igniting a fierce advocate’s flame within her. With resilience as her guide, she emerged not as a victim of her circumstances but as a warrior poised to challenge the systemic injustices plaguing those she was determined to protect. Recognizing the power of education as a tool for change, she embarked on an academic journey that would further equip her to champion the causes close to her heart. She returned to school to receive a certificate in Disability Studies and later graduated from the Aboriginal Education Program at Mount Royal University. Her thirst for knowledge unquenched, she went on to earn a diploma, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in Social Work, marking significant milestones in her career with each accolade. But her exploration of healing would extend beyond the conventional realms of academia. Along her path, she acquired skills in Reiki, Pranic Energy Healing, meditation, Shamanism, and ChakraDance, weaving the practices of her ancestors with contemporary healing modalities. This holistic approach underscored her belief in the interconnectedness of physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional well-being—a tenet that would become central to her advocacy work. Her achievements have not gone unnoticed, having received honours that recognize her tireless commitment to the communities she serves. However, her most significant accomplishments transcend titles or accolades; they are seen in the lives touched by her work, the policies influenced by her voice, and the cultural shifts her advocacy has set in motion. Today, she stands as a formidable figure in the intersecting arenas of mental health therapy, healthcare, Indigenous rights, and holistic healing. Her story is one of relentless pursuit, unwavering faith in humanity, and a deep-seated dedication to fostering environments where healing, empowerment, and justice are within everyone’s reach. Her life is a reminder that while the road may be fraught with challenges, it is also laden with opportunities for growth, healing, and advocacy. In the spirit of those who walked before her, she continues to pave the way forward, not just for her community, but for anyone whose life she touches.