For decades, providing services to Native American families residing on reservations has presented challenges to the social work profession. Historically, and in some locations currently, the federal government has been the primary family service provider. Non-Indian workers in key programs and administrative positions often staff these federal services. Often service delivery by non-Native workers is organized, administered, and delivered in a culturally insensitive manner. There has recently been an increase in American Indians that provide services for their own and neighboring Indian communities, but the issue of effective service delivery remains. This paper suggests a model of intensive home-based treatment and wellness services to Native American families living on reservations. The model acknowledges the importance of culturally competent leadership and workers, focuses on the prevention of placing of adults, elders, and children off the reservation, and maintaining balance in the family by emphasizing tribal values and wellness.
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