Empowerment Yarning Circles
Yeddung Mura delivers a culturally safe and supportive framework through Empowerment Yarning Circles, blending evidence-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with traditional yarning circles tailored to address the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders impacted by the justice system. This unique approach, facilitated by trained professionals, builds trust and hope by using personal stories and lived experiences to foster connection, understanding, and growth, making these narratives a cornerstone of the therapeutic process. The programs are tailored to maximise holistic wellness—encompassing mental, emotional, cultural, physical, social, and health aspects—essential for clients’ happiness and ability to follow a Good Pathway. The initiative supports individual safety and growth, as well as the safety of both the prison community and the local community.
Programs are delivered flexibly at the Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC) and the Yeddung Mura Community Centre (YMCC), available at any point in a person’s journey. For instance, a first-time participant attending the Managing Anger program receives foundational insights from the other two programs in their initial session. Operating on a rolling basis throughout the school term, the programs adapt to client turnover—new clients arrive at AMC roughly every nine months. The YMCC offers ‘Managing Addictions,’ which has an equivalent offering at AMC not delivered by Yeddung Mura.
Step Up and Take Charge
This foundation program cultivates a strong sense of ownership over the change process. It also covers how communication and relationships are meant to occur. This forms the basis for tthe level 2 Empowerment Yarning Circles.
Managing Grief
The Seasons of Healing program is a therapeutic approach that aligns with the natural cycles of life. The metaphor of seasons to represent the different stages of healing.
Managing Anger
This program refers to strategies and techniques aimed at controlling and reducing outbursts of anger or rage, which can be harmful to oneself or others.
The YMCC also runs the following Empowerment Yarning Circles that are not run at the prison:
- Managing Addiction: designed to support clients dealing with substance dependencies.
- Taking the Lead: This program enhances self-esteem by working on the principle that ‘everyone is a leader,’ tackling weaknesses while building strengths.
- Effective Parenting: This program focuses on understanding and addressing children’s emotional needs to foster their healthy relationships.