Castellano describes Aboriginal research as “research that touches the life and well-being of Aboriginal peoples.” Ethical research with Aboriginal people means following a code of conduct that reinforces the cultural and social values of a community. 
Aboriginal Research Protocols, is a document that was developed by a subcommittee tasked with producing a set of ethical research practices with Aboriginal communities for the Alberta Mental Health Board in the area of mental health services.
The subcommittee, facilitated by Dr. Jeannine Carrier (consultant), comprised of Andy Black Water (Elder of Blood Tribe), Dr. Joe Couture (Wetaskiwin), Carol Carifelle-Brezicki (Métis Settlements General Council), and Elsie Bastien (Aboriginal Mental Health, AMHB).
The Aboriginal Research Protocols document supports the facilitation of joint planning and implementation of the Strategic Directions for Action in Aboriginal Mental Health: A Framework for Alberta.