Operated from a spacious house on a residential street in Surrey, A’mut is a four-bed residential program designed with the needs and interests of female Indigenous youth in mind. Offered as an alternative to incarceration, A’mut is staffed by a caring team of gender-responsive, trauma-informed professionals that includes a clinical counselor, an art therapist and a First Nations elder.
Cultural respect and pride
The strength and beauty of Indigenous culture is a vital part of what makes A’mut special and effective. Under the guidance of a program elder, girls take part in celebratory feasts, drumming circles, singing, smudging, canoe pulls and language learning. Creating a connection with these cultural traditions is a fun and meaningful way to further healing and build self-esteem.
Life at A’mut
Girls are supported with both individual and group counselling, modelled on the evidence-based Voices curriculum developed by Dr. Stephanie Covington. It recognized the inter-relationship of violence and trauma with substance use, mental health and justice system involvement. At A’mut, we strive to help girls develop a positive sense of self, build healthy relationships, enjoy physical and emotional wellness and plan for a bright future.
A’mut partners with the Surrey School District to help girls complete their secondary school education.
A’mut is also a place where girls will find respect and fun. Each girl has her own bedroom, enjoys tasty, nutritious meals and snacks, and has the opportunity to experience a variety of relaxing activities like movie nights, spa nights, baking, beading, board games and crafts.
Each week, girls benefit from equine therapy. Bonding with a horse is proven to lower stress, reduce anxiety and depression, and helps people struggling with addictions and mental health needs.
Phone: 604-520-1166; Toll-Free: 1-888-879-9593
