Experts

Atwice Kamiakun

Atwice Kamiakun

Faculty

“I love having the opportunity to work in a professional atmosphere with individuals who care and share the fact that seeking mental help should not be a stigma. I am inspired by sharing knowledge that I learned from my elders – many who have passed – with youth, that their wisdom will live on.”

I was raised on the banks of the Columbia River at the thousands-year old, Celilo Falls, OR where my P’cha, Father, Atway St. Sgt. Matthew Goudy, Sr. was a fisherman and my Ithla, Mother, Atway Nancy Wak-Wak (Pinaxtamnay) Barron raised six children.  We lived there until 3/10/57 when the Dalles Dam inundated our home and we moved to Toppenish, WA.

My education includes: graduate, Toppenish Sr. High. Attended: Draughon’s Business College, Dallas, Tx, Fort Lewis College, Durango, Co; Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID, Heritage University, Toppenish, WA and University of Oregon, Eugene, OR.  Major(s) CPS, Business, Political Science and Sahaptin.

My four children reside in Fort Hall, ID and Fort Washakie, WY and I have ten grandchildren. All have received their Ichishkin Wanikt, (Indian Name) which is very important to me.

My occupations have varied from top-level security clearance at the Idaho Energy Nuclear Labs, to a lender at a National Bank. My favorite position was with the Sho-Ban School in Fort Hall, ID where it is said that “I built the School!”  Presently, I am the Cultural Coordinator for the Systems of Care Grant, Yakama Nation and I am married to a “real” Chief, Wilfred Espawas Redthunder, Nez Perce.  He is a direct descendant (great grandson) of Chief Joseph.

NW Elders, Knowledge Holders and Culture Keepers ECHO Program

Atwice is faculty for the NW Elders, Knowledge Holders and Culture Keepers ECHO Program, which is designed to provide comprehensive information for behavioral health specialists to effectively integrate services and promote healing so that our communities thrive. 

Interested in receiving free treatment recommendations or technical assistance from one of our experts? Contact us at echo@npaihb.org.