Honoring Culture and Healing

A New Chapter for Native American Mental Health at Via Linda Behavioral Hospital

By Jaclyn Hull, CEO,
Via Linda Behavioral Hospital

 

At Via Linda Behavioral Hospital, we are proud to announce the official launch of our Native American Program—an initiative that reflects our commitment to providing culturally relevant and respectful mental health care to Indigenous communities. This new inpatient program is designed specifically to meet the unique needs of Native American individuals by incorporating traditional healing practices into a clinical setting.

Nearly three years ago, we opened our doors with a vision of serving the Scottsdale and greater Phoenix region with quality behavioral health care. Since then, we have expanded our services in many important directions, but the unveiling of this program holds a special place in our journey. It is not simply a new service—it is a meaningful partnership and a tribute to the traditions and healing practices of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and other Indigenous Nations we are honored to serve.

The Native American Program at Via Linda integrates a culturally adapted twelve-step model within a holistic treatment framework. This model embraces a traditional healing curriculum that promotes cultural reconnection, resilience-building, and the restoration of supportive relationships. It is our way of acknowledging the deeply rooted effects of generational trauma and the historical lack of access to quality mental health care among Native peoples.

We believe healing must honor the individual’s culture, identity, and community. For too long, mental health care has been delivered with a one-size-fits-all approach. Our new program moves beyond that, blending modern therapeutic interventions with traditional practices such as smudging, cornmeal prayer, and storytelling. This hybrid approach helps patients not only address their mental health challenges but also reconnect with their heritage and the strength that lies within it.

We are incredibly grateful for the support of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. Their partnership and warm welcome have affirmed that healing is not something anyone should have to do alone. As our Chief Nursing Officer, Claire Romero, eloquently stated, “The understanding that no one individual is alone and we all face challenges in our lives has truly been embraced through this program.”

Her words capture the spirit of unity and compassion that guides our work every day.

In addition to the spiritual and cultural components, the program includes evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), art therapy, and pet therapy. Patients also have access to Alcoholics Anonymous® meetings that are structured with cultural sensitivity in mind. Our multidisciplinary team is trained to understand and respect cultural nuances while delivering high-quality care.

Looking ahead, we are excited about the potential to expand these services at an outpatient level. We envision a continuum of care that meets patients where they are—whether that means support during a crisis or resources for long-term wellness.

 

This is just the beginning

The Native American Program represents more than a treatment model—it’s a living, evolving commitment to doing better for communities that have historically been underserved. We are humbled by the trust placed in us and remain dedicated to delivering care that not only treats symptoms but uplifts spirits and honors tradition.

As we continue this important work, we invite patients, families, and community partners to walk alongside us in healing. Together, we can reimagine mental health care—one that is inclusive, respectful, and rooted in culture.

To learn more about Via Linda Behavioral Hospital and their specialized programs, visit vialindabehavioral.com