Community-based evaluation of a therapeutic photography program in Pinehouse, Saskatchewan (2016–2020), exploring youth mental health, emotional expression, and early intervention outcomes in rural and remote Indigenous communities. Back to Science & Resilience Summary The Pinehouse Protocol: A Longitudinal Study of Therapeutic Photography as a Triage Tool for Pediatric Mental Health in Northern Saskatchewan Author: Dre Erwin, RNAAP Date: April 2026 Abstract Youth in rural and remote Indigenous communities across Canada face disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges, compounded by geographic isolation, limited access to services, and a lack of culturally relevant interventions. This community-based case study examines the development and impact of a therapeutic photography program implemented in Pinehouse, Saskatchewan. Led by Dre Erwin, an RNAAP with extensive experience in acute and primary care, the program engaged Métis and First Nations youth aged 6–13 in structured photography activities designed to promote emotional expression, identity development, and community connection. Using a mixed-methods approach incorporating self-reported mood ratings, written reflections, and clinical observation, findings suggest meaningful improvements in self-reported wellbeing, increased emotional expression, and enhanced engagement with cultural identity. This paper explores therapeutic photography as a scalable, low-barrier intervention for youth mental health in rural and remote settings. 1. Introduction Mental health disparities among Indigenous youth in Canada remain a significant public health concern. In rural and remote regions, these disparities are further intensified by structural barriers, including limited access to mental health services, workforce shortages, and stigma surrounding formal care. Traditional clinical approaches—often reliant on verbal expression within structured environments—may not effectively engage youth in early stages of emotional distress. Many youth do not initially present through formal systems, instead internalizing distress until crisis points are reached. The development of the Pinehouse Photography Club emerged from both clinical observation and lived experience. As a nurse working in a northern community, I encountered youth experiencing emotional distress with limited accessible outlets for expression. Concurrently, photography became a personal coping mechanism during a period of depression and problematic alcohol use, evolving into a structured means of emotional processing, focus, and purpose. This dual perspective—clinical and experiential—formed the foundation for a community-based intervention rooted in a simple premise: Creative, structured, and socially reinforced activities can provide an accessible pathway to emotional expression and early mental health support. The program aligns conceptually with Photovoice methodologies, which emphasize the use of photography as a tool for reflection, communication, and community engagement. 2. Program Methodology 2.1 Study Design This study represents a community-based program evaluation utilizing a mixed-methods approach, combining: Self-reported quantitative mood data Qualitative written reflections Ongoing clinical and observational insights This was not a randomized controlled trial, but rather an applied, real-world intervention within a community setting. 2.2 Setting and Population The program was implemented in Pinehouse, a northern community with a population of approximately 1,013 (2021 Census), characterized by a high proportion of youth. Participants primarily included Métis and First Nations youth aged 6–13 years. Participation was voluntary and open-access, with no formal referral required. 2.3 Intervention Model: “Low-Barrier Entry, High-Engagement” The program was designed to maximize accessibility while maintaining structure and purpose. Key components included: 1. Access to Professional Equipment Youth were provided with DSLR cameras, drones, and editing workstations. This elevated the perceived value of participation and promoted skill development and ownership. 2. Structured Routine Participants were required to: Sign out cameras and SD cards Complete photography tasks (often theme-based) Return for editing and review This structure introduced accountability while maintaining engagement. 3. Daily Engagement Attendance frequently ranged from 100–200 youth per day, particularly during evenings and weekends, indicating significant community uptake. 4. Guided Reflection and Sharing Participants reviewed and discussed their images, often leading to organic conversations around emotions, identity, and lived experience. 3. Results and Clinical Observations 3.1 Quantitative Changes in Self-Reported Mood Participants utilized a 1–5 Likert scale to rate mood before and after sessions. Mean pre-session mood: ~2.8/5 Mean post-session mood: ~4.6/5 Repeated participation was associated with a gradual increase in baseline mood stability, particularly among youth identified as higher risk. 3.2 Qualitative Findings Analysis of written reflections and observed behavior revealed several consistent themes: Emotional Expression Youth described photography as a means to: “feel happy” “not feel as sad” “get things out without talking” Identity and Confidence Participants demonstrated: Increased pride in their work Positive responses to peer and online feedback Development of personal and creative identity Social Connection The program facilitated: Formation of peer groups Increased sense of belonging Shared purpose and collaboration Cultural Engagement Youth began documenting: Land-based activities Community events Cultural practices This contributed to increased interaction with Elders and deeper cultural awareness. 3.3 Clinical Observations: Early Intervention and Triage The program functioned as an informal early identification and triage environment. Youth who initially presented as withdrawn or disengaged often: Became more socially interactive Shared concerns through indirect means (images, conversation) Demonstrated increased willingness to engage with support systems When higher-risk individuals were identified, warm handovers were facilitated to local mental health workers and community supports. During the program’s most active period, no youth suicides were known to the program or local clinical services, though causation cannot be established. 4. Discussion Findings suggest that therapeutic photography may function effectively as an indirect mental health intervention, particularly in settings where traditional clinical engagement is limited. Key mechanisms include: Externalization of internal emotional states Skill-building and mastery Social validation and reinforcement Cultural reconnection Structured, purpose-driven activity Unlike traditional talk-based approaches, photography does not require immediate verbal articulation, reducing barriers to participation and engagement. For nursing and community health practice, this represents a shift from reactive care models toward proactive, community-based wellness interventions. 5. Limitations Observational design without control group Reliance on self-reported data Lack of longitudinal follow-up Outcomes partially dependent on facilitator presence and engagement 6. Implications for Practice The Pinehouse model demonstrates strong potential for: Integration into school-based programming Adaptation in other rural and remote communities Use by interdisciplinary teams (nursing, social work, education) Key requirements for scalability include: Trained facilitators Community support Sustainable resource allocation 7. Conclusion The Pinehouse Photography Club demonstrated that a structured, creative, and culturally grounded program can significantly influence youth engagement, emotional expression, and community connection. In environments where access to traditional mental health services is limited, therapeutic photography offers a scalable, low-barrier, and highly engaging alternative that supports resilience, identity development, and early intervention. What began as an individual coping strategy evolved into a community-level model with meaningful and observable impact—highlighting the potential for innovative, non-clinical approaches within modern healthcare practice. Return to Clinical Summary References Foundational Indigenous Research & Visual Sovereignty Castleden, H., Garvin, T., & Huu-ay-aht First Nation. (2008). Modifying Photovoice for community-based participatory research with Indigenous communities. Health & Place. First Nations Health Authority (FNHA). Land-Based Healing and Wellness Models for Indigenous Youth. Raheja, M. H. (2007). Reading Nanook’s Smile: Visual Sovereignty and Indigenous Representation. American Quarterly. Reading, C. L., & Wien, F. (2009). Health inequalities and social determinants of Aboriginal peoples' health. National Collaborating Centre for Aboriginal Health. Wang, C., & Burris, M. A. (1997). Photovoice: Concept, methodology, and use for participatory needs assessment. Health Education & Behavior. Clinical Therapeutic Photography & Skill-Building Capello, P. P. (2006). The Lens as a Transition Object: Using Photography in Child Therapy. American Journal of Art Therapy. Gibson, N., & Morales, A. (2019). The Impact of Social Inclusion on the Mental Health of Rural Youth. Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health. Haldane, S. (2022). Therapeutic Photography: Methods and Mechanisms in Community Healing. Journal of Visual Arts & Health. Loewenthal, D. (2013). Phototherapy and Therapeutic Photography in a Digital Age. Routledge. Weiser, J. (1999). Phototherapy Techniques: Exploring the Secrets of Personal Snapshots and Family Albums. Neuroscience, Physiology & Population Health Benson, H. (1975). The Relaxation Response. (Regarding the physiological impact of nature and repetitive creative tasks on the nervous system). Erwin, D. (2020). Field Observations in Northern Clinical Nursing: Pinehouse 2016-2020. Saskatchewan Health Authority. Mental Health and Addictions Services: Northern Population Health Briefs. Van der Kolk, B. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score. (On the neurobiology of trauma and visual anchors). Global National News Play Video Exploring our Stories and Blog When a Community Steps Up: 150 Pairs of Shoes, Cameras, and a Very Full Truck Heading North What started as a simple idea for a youth pickleball league in Sandy Bay quickly grew into a massive donation drive! Thanks to incredible community generosity, we collected over 150 pairs of shoes, DSLR cameras, and tons of gear to support northern youth mental and physical health programs. Now, the only challenge is fitting it all into the truck for the 740km drive north! The Art of the Crop: Why It’s Time to Stop Framing the Garbage Sometimes, protecting your peace isn't about setting the world on fire; it’s about adjusting your focus. In my latest piece, I explore a simple, powerful lesson I’ve learned from behind the lens: the transformative power of the intentional crop, and how you can apply it to your own life and mental health, especially when facing old challenges. Why You’re Probably Too "Smart" to Feel Better We’re obsessed with complex fixes for our mental health, ignoring the simple tools right in our pockets. Photography isn’t just for art; it’s an essential piece of mental hygiene. Here’s why it’s time to stop overthinking, pick up the camera, and start actually seeing.

Focus on what's important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don't work out, take another shot. < Back Life is Like a Camera... Dec 28, 2023 Dre Erwin Focus on what's important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don't work out, take another shot. What you focus on expands, so aim your lens towards the positivity you seek, and watch how it shapes the picture of your life. This metaphor compares life to using a camera. It suggests that in life, one should concentrate on what truly matters, cherish the positive moments, learn from the challenging ones (the negatives), and if circumstances don't go as planned, try again just like taking another shot with a camera. The phrase "What you focus on expands" implies that where you direct your attention or energy tends to grow or become more prominent in your life. Therefore, the advice is to focus on the positive aspects you desire because that focus influences and shapes the overall quality and direction of your life. Previous Next Chase the Lights with Me Get my latest camera settings, aurora alerts, and behind-the-scenes updates Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our Newsletter

A Journey Through Our Diverse Visual Narratives < Back Unveiling Captivating Photo Galleries: Exploring the Aurora Borealis, Community, and More Oct 30, 2023 A Journey Through Our Diverse Visual Narratives Prepare to embark on a visual odyssey with the upcoming launch of our photo galleries page. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Aurora Borealis, discover the heartwarming essence of community life, and explore the rich cultures of First Nations and Métis peoples. From stunning drone captures to evocative landscapes and candid portraits, our galleries promise a diverse and inspiring experience. Our lens also delves into stress, offering a unique perspective on its impact in our lives. Stay tuned as we unveil this vibrant tapestry of visual storytelling, where every image narrates a unique story Previous Next Chase the Lights with Me Get my latest camera settings, aurora alerts, and behind-the-scenes updates Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our Newsletter

Discover the essence of community and well-being as we journey across the prairies, exploring a tapestry of people, cultures, architectural marvels, and breathtaking landscapes. Uncover the uniqueness that defines each of these remarkable places. < Back Community and Well-Being Discover the essence of community and well-being as we journey across the prairies, exploring a tapestry of people, cultures, architectural marvels, and breathtaking landscapes. Uncover the uniqueness that defines each of these remarkable places. Join us here on a captivating exploration of 'Community and Well-being' as we embark on a journey through the vast and diverse prairies. This initiative delves deep into the very heart of these communities, unraveling the intricate web of people, cultures, architectural heritage, and the awe-inspiring landscapes that shape their identity. Our mission is to shine a light on the distinctiveness that sets each of these places apart, showcasing not only their individuality but also the common thread of well-being that ties them all together. From the bustling city streets to the tranquil rural horizons, we celebrate the remarkable resilience, diversity, and unity that make these prairie communities truly unique. Previous Next Donate 01 Pinehouse Photography Club Online Gallery 02 Dre Erwin Photography Online Gallery 03 Therapeutic Photography Online Gallery

Dre's expertise in aurora borealis photography and his ability to capture the beauty and magic of the Northern Lights in his images can provide a source of inspiration and motivation for anyone looking to explore and connect with the natural world. Downloadable Content Usage Rights & Consent Disclosure All photographs in this collection are the property of the creator. I hereby confirm that I have obtained all necessary permissions and consents for the use and distribution of these images. These photos are provided to SHA with express permission for use in Truth and Reconciliation educational initiatives. Any further distribution or commercial use outside of this educational scope requires additional written consent.

Strong Solar Storm Alert: G3 "Cannibal" CME Hits Saskatchewan Skies < Back Strong Solar Storm Hits Saskatchewan: G3 Alert for December! Dec 10, 2025 Strong Solar Storm Alert: G3 "Cannibal" CME Hits Saskatchewan Skies If you have been looking up at the night sky over Regina and Southern Saskatchewan this week, you might be in for a treat. A G3 (Strong) Geomagnetic Storm watch is currently in effect, sparked by what scientists call a "Cannibal CME." What is a Cannibal CME? This happens when a faster-moving solar eruption (Coronal Mass Ejection) overtakes and merges with a slower one ahead of it. The result is a massive, combined wave of solar energy that slams into Earth’s magnetic field. This impact can trigger intense geomagnetic storms, pushing the Northern Lights much further south than usual. Visibility for Saskatchewan For us here in Saskatchewan, a G3 rating usually means the aurora will be visible not just in the north, but potentially right overhead in Regina and along the southern border—weather permitting, of course. Tips for Viewing: Get away from city light pollution. Look north (though with a G3, they may be directly overhead). Use your camera or phone on "Night Mode" to see colors the naked eye might miss. Previous Next Chase the Lights with Me Get my latest camera settings, aurora alerts, and behind-the-scenes updates Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our Newsletter

As we step into 2026, I want to take a moment to thank all of my clients and supporters for an incredible year. Your support makes what I do possible. Here’s to a year of growth, health, and capturing more beautiful moments together. Happy New Year! < Back Cheers to 2026! Dec 31, 2025 As we step into 2026, I want to take a moment to thank all of my clients and supporters for an incredible year. Your support makes what I do possible. Here’s to a year of growth, health, and capturing more beautiful moments together. Happy New Year! Previous Next Chase the Lights with Me Get my latest camera settings, aurora alerts, and behind-the-scenes updates Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our Newsletter

Youth in northern Saskatchewan discover healing through photography—a powerful tool for expressing emotions, overcoming trauma, and fostering connection. CBC captures their inspiring journeys, showcasing the profound impact of this innovative therapeutic approach on their mental well-being. < Back A New Lens on Life: The CBC Award-Winning Documentary Youth in northern Saskatchewan discover healing through photography—a powerful tool for expressing emotions, overcoming trauma, and fostering connection. CBC captures their inspiring journeys, showcasing the profound impact of this innovative therapeutic approach on their mental well-being. How Photography Saved Lives in Pinehouse Lake, Saskatchewan Skylar Lariviere faced despair in the vast forests of northern Saskatchewan, contemplating ending her life. But she found hope and purpose through therapeutic photography, which transformed her perspective. She dropped her weapon, ran towards life, and sought help. In Pinehouse Lake, a community grappling with high youth suicide rates, the Pinehouse Photography Club, founded by primary care nurse Dre Erwin, emerged as a beacon of healing. Photography offered a creative outlet that not only captured the Northern Lights but also ignited a sense of wonder and purpose among its members. As they captured the beauty of Pinehouse through their lenses, they found solace and a way to cope with depression, addiction, and the challenges of remote living. This powerful transformation through therapeutic photography inspired others to follow suit. Teens like Louis Iron discovered the healing power of the camera, using it to navigate the darkness and find light in their lives. As Pinehouse's photography community blossomed, it became clear that this approach was more than a hobby—it was a lifeline. Photography became a bridge to self-esteem and self-worth, allowing these young individuals to communicate their feelings and experiences without words. As Pinehouse's story unfolded, the Pinehouse Photography Club received recognition and grants, setting up a studio space and inspiring similar initiatives nationwide. Today, Pinehouse's photographers continue to capture the beauty of the Northern Lights and their community. Their journey from darkness to light serves as a testament to the transformative power of photography and resilience in the face of adversity. This is the story of hope, healing, and belief—a story that reminds us all that, no matter how low we feel, we can always rise to the top. But the story doesn't end here. The Pinehouse Photography Club is on a mission to extend these opportunities to all Métis and First Nations youth, especially those in the northern and rural parts of the country. Their vision is to offer the same lifeline of creativity, healing, and hope to those who need it most, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of a brighter future. Learn more about the aware winning documentary here . Learn about the Pinehouse Photography Club here , that uses therapeutic photography in Pinehouse Lake, Saskatchewan, Canada. Learn about therapeutic photography here . Previous Next Donate Explore the critically acclaimed documentary 'A New Lens on Life,' honored by CBC and produced by Madeline Kotzer 01 Pinehouse Photography Club Online Gallery 02 Dre Erwin Photography Online Gallery 03 Therapeutic Photography Online Gallery

Wishing you a Merry Christmas filled with joy, love, and the enchantment of the season. From Dre's lens to your heart, may this holiday bring you warmth and happiness! < Back Merry Christmas! 🎄 Dec 25, 2023 Wishing you a Merry Christmas filled with joy, love, and the enchantment of the season. From Dre's lens to your heart, may this holiday bring you warmth and happiness! Wishing you a Merry Christmas filled with joy, love, and the enchantment of the season. From Dre's lens to your heart, may this holiday bring you warmth and happiness! Previous Next Chase the Lights with Me Get my latest camera settings, aurora alerts, and behind-the-scenes updates Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our Newsletter

Unlock inspiration and manifest positive change through the captivating synergy of therapeutic photography and the law of attraction. < Back Online Photography Gallery Unlock inspiration and manifest positive change through the captivating synergy of therapeutic photography and the law of attraction. Welcome to our online gallery, where the captivating world of therapeutic photography harmonizes with the profound principles of the law of attraction. Here, we showcase the transformative power of imagery and the art of manifesting positivity. In this gallery, every photograph tells a story of hope, resilience, and the limitless potential of the human spirit. Our vision is to inspire you to see the world through a new lens, where the law of attraction merges with the therapeutic benefits of photography. We believe that every image captured carries the energy of our intentions, a visual manifestation of our desires. As you explore these photographs, may you find inspiration, motivation, and a profound sense of connection with the universe. Join us in harnessing the power of your thoughts and your camera lens to create the life you envision. Let this gallery be a source of empowerment, as we embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation together. Previous Next Donate 01 Pinehouse Photography Club Online Gallery 02 Dre Erwin Photography Online Gallery 03 Therapeutic Photography Online Gallery

Tonight marks the official end of a major chapter. I will walk into the Regina Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) to pull my absolute final night shift. < Back A Final Shift in Perspective: From the Regina PACU to the Northern Lights May 27, 2026 Dre Erwin Tonight marks the official end of a major chapter. I will walk into the Regina Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) to pull my absolute final night shift. Before I even clock in, the gym membership is cancelled, the parking pass is cut, and my locker will be completely cleaned out. When the sun comes up tomorrow morning, this professional chapter is officially closed, period. As a nurse with over two decades of critical care and primary care experience, transitions like this hit with a unique weight. But the administrative checklist isn't the hard part. The real weight is personal. Heading up north to a permanent role in Sandy Bay means leaving my wife, my son, and my family behind in Regina for at least the next few months. I’m not going to sugarcoat it: right now, it feels like I’m failing them by walking out that door. It is hands-down the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. But the reality is, I am leaving them for them—to endure the distance now so we can secure a better life in the long run. To visually process that looming absence, I did something raw with a recent family photo from one of our chases. A Final Horizon Together (Pre-Transition) The Echo of Departure (Post-Transition) Seeing that empty space on the bridge is a brutal preview of the next few months. Walking away from the daily routine with the people who mean the most to you is a heavy tax to pay. Seeing the reality of where I’ll be laying my head up north makes that distance very real, very fast. This is home base for the next little while. It's stark, it's distant, and it's a long way from the family living room. To visually capture exactly how my headspace feels right now on the edge of this massive shift, I look at this recent "tiny planet" stereographic projection I edited from a local Regina chase. Standing on the edge of a flat prairie horizon—literally twisted into its own self-contained world beneath a roaring canopy of neon green and orange aurora borealis—perfectly mirrors this moment. It’s a total shift in perspective. My entire world is spinning into a new alignment. The Mission Ahead The sacrifice is heavy, but the purpose is clear. Back home, my living room is currently a beautiful disaster of logistics—piled high with donated shoes, shirts, and sports gear prepped and ready to head up north to support the youth mentorship and community photography initiatives. We are going to do some incredible work for the kids up there, and that mission keeps my feet moving forward. But before the real packing and the heavy goodbyes happen, I’m taking a quick breather with a road trip to Calgary this weekend to clear my head, spend time with family, and reset. Regina PACU, it has been an absolute slice. Let's handle these administrative final steps, empty the locker, and do this one last time. Previous Next Chase the Lights with Me Get my latest camera settings, aurora alerts, and behind-the-scenes updates Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our Newsletter

Explore the Canadian bestseller by Dre Erwin, RN-AAP. A companion to Therapeutic Photography, this book focuses on resilience and finding light in unexpected places. Discover Happiness in Unusual Places A Heartwarming Tale of Resilience by Dre Erwin, RN-AAP 1 A Global Bestseller This story has touched readers across the globe, reaching top 10 children's books in Canada for 2 weeks! 2 Mental Wellness & Resilience Rooted in the principles of Therapeutic Photography , this book serves as a visual and literary anchor for finding light in difficult times. Get Your Copy Today BUY