 Suzy’s* return from Iraq was anything but a smooth landing. She left her role in the Army with deep emotional wounds, feeling isolated and out of place back in civilian life. Once part of a team, she now felt disconnected from everyone around her. Conversations felt foreign, and the daily rhythm of civilian life was a far cry from the tightly woven structure she’d left behind. Diagnosed with PTSD, Suzy felt as if her sense of self had been retired against her will, and she wondered how—or if—she’d ever find her footing again. When she began counseling at STEPS with Horses, Suzy was introduced to Max, a strong, regal horse who held a unique role within his herd. Like her, Max had also been retired from his career due to an injury, a change that initially left him feeling uncertain and out of sync. But Max had found his own way to adjust: after years of isolation, he had become a respected leader in his herd, known for his ability to protect and care for the more vulnerable horses. As Suzy learned more about Max’s story, she couldn’t help but see parts of herself in him. They had both come from lives where their roles were clearly defined and deeply meaningful—only to have that structure taken away. What made Max even more special, her counselor told her, was that he didn’t just work with anyone. Max chose his clients, connecting only with those he felt truly drawn to. The day Max approached Suzy and stood quietly at her side, she felt a spark of something she hadn’t felt in a long time—honor, pride, and a sense of being seen. Over the following weeks, Suzy spent more time with Max. There were no grand gestures, just quiet moments in the pasture where they’d stand side by side, sometimes close, sometimes at a distance. Max showed her a kind of acceptance that Suzy had feared she’d lost. He didn’t demand anything from her, didn’t require her to speak or explain herself. His calm, steady presence reminded her that even without words, there was still a way to connect. Suzy began to see that Max’s role as a leader wasn’t loud or demanding. He led by example, simply being there for others in his herd, showing strength by standing with them rather than always directing them. She saw how Max, who had once struggled to get along with other horses, had become a grounding presence for the herd. Slowly, Suzy started to see herself in that light, too—someone who could still bring value, still lead, but in a new way. Max helped Suzy feel more comfortable reconnecting with others. His gentle, consistent presence showed her that she could rebuild her relationships with quiet confidence, one small step at a time. Working with Max didn’t erase Suzy’s struggles, but it reminded her of her inner strength and showed her that she could be a part of something meaningful again. In Max, Suzy found a kindred spirit—a reminder that though their paths had changed, there was still a place for both of them in this new world. *Name and identifying details changed to protect client identity and privacy. To support Max's work with other veterans like Suzy, please join Max's Carrot Club! To work with Max as a client, please fill out the Counseling Interest Form.
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AuthorSTEPS With Horses Archives
January 2026
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