Mash-ka-wisen Treatment Center and Thunderbird-Wren Halfway House
Mash-ka-wisen Treatment Center and Thunderbird-Wren Halfway House

Sometimes I go about in pity for myself, and all the while,
a great wind carries me across the sky.
About Us
About Us

Our Mission
Our Mission
To provide substance use disorder services to American Indians who are affected by or afflicted with substance use disorders.
"Recovery is possible, let us help you find your path”; enhance at your discretion.
Our Tradition of Excellence
Our Tradition of Excellence
In 1977, Mash-Ka-Wisen and Thunderbird-Wren became the first treatment facilities in the country owned and operated by Native Americans. Since then, we have continued to provide culturally relevant treatment to those suffering from problematic substance use.





Our Organization
Our Organization
Mash-Ka-Wisen Residential Treatment Center and Thunderbird-Wren Halfway House are part of the non-profit corporation Minnesota Indian Primary Residential Treatment Center, Inc. (MIPRTC), governed by a board of directors from Fond-du-lac, Grand Portage, Red Lake, Leech Lake, White Earth, Bois Forte Reservations and a representative from the Sioux communities.
MIPRTC offers comprehensive services for the treatment of problematic substance use. All facilities are fully licensed, and Mash-ka-wisen programs are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation (CARF).
Our Programs
Our Programs
Women’s
Program
Women’s
Program

45-90-day in-patient treatment with extensions provided if necessary.
Men’s
Program
Men’s
Program

45-90-day in-patient treatment, with additional days provided if necessary.
Thunderbird-Wren
Halfway House
Thunderbird-Wren
Halfway House

Provides transitional living facilities for men and women recovering from substance use disorder.

Cultural Programs
Cultural Programs
We offer clients the unique opportunity to heal their spirit while participating in cultural practices throughout their treatment. This is an integral part of our recovery services because it helps clients reconnect strength and honor in their cultural identity.
Our programs give clients the opportunity to recover a sense of oneness with their tradition and heritage.
Programs include:
- Pipe and Drum Ceremonies
- Talking Circles
- Sweat Lodges
- Powwows
- Ojibwe Language Groups
- Grief Ceremonies
We respect an individual’s religious and spiritual beliefs, and so participation in many events is optional.

Minnesota Indian Primary Residential Treatment Center Inc.
Minnesota Indian Primary Residential Treatment Center Inc.

1150 Mission Road
Sawyer, Minnesota 55780
