25 - Creating a safe supportive environment (CASSE): a psychodynamically-informed community intervention for Aboriginal communities in Central Australia

Abstract

This chapter describes the work of the not-for-profit psychoanalytic organization Creating A Safe Supportive Environment (CASSE) in Central Australia, Northern Territory. CASSE is dedicated to changing minds and saving lives. The chapter shows the cornerstones of psychoanalytic thinking that have informed the work and the critical tools of psychoanalytic practice that have enabled the work. The psychic world of the red centre (Central Australia) is one of generational trauma in a postcolonial world. Aboriginal Tjukurrpa (Dreaming/Law) is still alive, although traditional culture has been severely ruptured. CASSE has collaborated and partnered with Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal organizations, communities, and stakeholders to develop some key projects determined by the Aboriginal people.