Resources

NW Elders ECHO | Healing from Walking: Resetting Back to Balance

Date of Presentation: September 8, 2026

Audience: Clinical  Community  

Program: Elders, Knowledge Holders and Culture Keepers  

Keywords: #Recovery  #spiritual wellness  #substance use  #walking  

In this presentation, Lisa Niels explores walking as a holistic healing practice that supports physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness during substance use recovery. Furthermore, Lisa highlights Indigenous perspectives, including Cherokee teachings, and discusses practical ways to incorporate walking into recovery to manage stress and cravings, strengthen connection, and support long-term sobriety.

Recording:

Presented by:

Lisa Niels
BHA

Lisa Niels, (Cherokee Nation Citizen), serves as the Community Wellness Manager for the Chehalis Tribal Wellness Center in Oakville WA, where she is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of Tribal members through culturally responsive, community-driven wellness initiatives. In her role, she oversees community wellness programs focused on disease prevention, health education, chronic disease management, cancer prevention and survivorship, awareness and community engagement. Lisa is passionate about building strong partnerships, reducing barriers to care, and creating programs that empower individuals and families to live healthier lives. 

Lisa earned her Associate of Technical Arts (ATA) degree in Chemical Dependency Studies and her Associate of Technical Arts (ATA) degree in Behavioral Health Aide from Northwest Indian College. She is continuing her education by entering the Community Advocates in Responsive Education Services (CARES) program at Northwest Indian College. Her educational background has provided her with a strong foundation in behavioral health, substance use prevention, trauma-informed care, and culturally appropriate approaches to supporting Native communities. She continues to expand her knowledge through ongoing professional development and higher education in behavioral health. 

Throughout her career, Lisa has remained committed to strengthening community wellness by working with innovative health programs, coordinating outreach events, securing community partnerships, and advocating for equitable access to healthcare services. She believes that successful healthcare extends beyond the clinic walls and is built through trust, collaboration, cultural respect, and meaningful relationships with the communities served. 

Lisa is committed to honoring the values and traditions while promoting holistic wellness that supports the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health of Tribal members. Her goal is to inspire healthier communities through education, prevention, collaboration, and compassionate leadership.

Resources Provided:

Date added: September 8, 2026