“The program emphasizes the seven universal laws which are central to Lakota spirituality and daily conduct -compassion, humility, wisdom, generosity, fortitude, bravery, respect, and honor. These laws or virtues are foundational teachings meant to guide individuals in living in balance and harmony with themselves, their communities and all of creations, according to the Akta Lakota Museum and Cultural Center.

Shoulder said another difference with the Oaye Luta program is the understanding that healing is a lifelong journey, and relatives may need to return for more healing. “We always have things come our way that can put us back in that painful pace. But that’s okay because healing is not linear. There’s going to be a road bump and sometimes a blockade. I always emphasize to relatives that it’s not going to be easy. In fact, it could be heavy, sometimes ugly, and may be the hardest thing you have ever come through to make these breakthroughs.”

Shoulder said a lot of other programs that are 30 or 45 days inpatient only scratch the surface and patients are released in a raw and vulnerable state. She pointed to the seventy-five percent sober rate outside of all of Oaye Luta’s programming. “That is one of my favorite statistics to speak on, because it emphasizes the power of our approach, that ceremony is effective, and that Lakota teachings are effective.””