To provide some directions for the design and implementation of innovative health programs, both on an individual and community level, this paper, using both empirical and anecdotal sources, explores some of the possible psychological mechanisms Indian people have used to endure overt and covert Federal policies and social attitudes of termination and assimilation. While much has been written on the destructive coping mechanisms of alcoholism, suicide, and violence, the positive aspects of Indian life (the use of medicine people as healers, the use of herbs as medicine, spiritual rituals, ceremonies, and participation in community events) and their values as survival skills have not been adequately evaluated and incorporated as treatment methods. The paper examines how the theoretical stance of problems, the client's belief system, and actual behavioral patterns can affect therapy and discusses specific therapeutic techniques (impact therapy and nondirective therapy based on Freud's and Maslow's theories) that may lead to a clearer understanding of underlying problems, the evolvement of a new Survival Pact, needs assessment programs, and development of educational programs that would address health and social needs on a broad level. (NEC)