Our Mission
Our mission at Flower In The Wind Therapy is to provide culturally appropriate, client-centred mental wellness therapy that empowers Indigenous clients. We honour their values and traditions, creating a safe space for healing and growth. Additionally, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of Indigenous therapists
Our Vision
To be a sanctuary of healing and growth, providing culturally appropriate, client-centred mental wellness therapy that honours Indigenous values and traditions.
We walk side by side with our clients on their journey to wellness while nurturing the next generation of Indigenous therapists to support their communities
Flower In The Wind Therapy is a certified Metis-owned business
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.
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.
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.
Therapy Techniques Samaria is Trained in:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Samaria's Qualifications
Educational
Professional Background
Samaria has dedicated her career to significantly impacting disability, advocacy, and addictions. With years of hands-on experience, Samaria has developed a deep understanding and a compassionate approach to supporting individuals facing various challenges. Her work has consistently focused on promoting inclusivity, empowering marginalized communities, and advocating for systemic change.
Educational Qualifications
- Disability Studies Certificate: Samaria’s foundational education began with a specialized certificate in Disability Studies, providing her with a robust understanding of the social and cultural dimensions of disability.
- Social Work Diploma: Building on her initial studies, Samaria earned a Social Work Diploma, equipping her with essential skills in case management, counselling, and community service.
- Bachelor of Social Work: She furthered her education with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, deepening her knowledge and broadening her expertise in social justice, policy analysis, and human behaviour.
- Masters of Social Work (Clinical Practice): Samaria culminated her academic journey with a Master's degree in Social Work, specializing in clinical practice. This advanced qualification underscores her proficiency in therapeutic techniques, mental health support, and evidence-based interventions.
Samaria’s blend of practical experience and extensive educational background makes her a highly skilled professional in her field, committed to driving positive change and supporting individuals in achieving better outcomes in their lives.
