 Rick, a wary teenager, carried the heavy burden of a painful past. Raised in an abusive household, he learned early on that showing emotions could lead to more hurt. He became very good at hiding his feelings, always saying he was "fine," even when he was really hurting inside. By the time Rick started equine assisted counseling, his emotional walls were firmly in place. At the ranch, Rick met Maggie, a gentle and perceptive therapy horse with a unique ability to sense the emotions of those around her. Despite Rick’s calm appearance, Maggie quickly sensed the storm brewing inside him. Whenever Rick said he was "fine," Maggie would respond with gentle nudges or restlessness, sensing the truth behind his words. In their sessions together, Maggie could see into Rick's inner world. She would nuzzle him gently when he was sad, stand quietly by his side when he was anxious, and sometimes even refuse to move when Rick was especially guarded. These subtle but powerful reactions from Maggie showed the difference between Rick's words and his emotions. Rick's counselor helped him understand these interactions, showing him that Maggie was responding to his true feelings, not the mask he wore. At first, this made Rick uncomfortable. He wasn’t used to anyone, let alone a horse, seeing through his defenses. But Maggie's kind presence and patience slowly chipped away at his emotional armor. One memorable moment stands out in Rick's journey. During a tough session, Rick stood beside Maggie, insisting he was fine. Maggie stepped closer and rested her head gently on his shoulder. This simple act of comfort broke through Rick's walls. He began to cry, letting out all the feelings he had been holding inside. Maggie stayed with him, her calm and steady presence giving him the safety he had never known. This breakthrough marked the beginning of a big change. Rick started to trust the process, realizing that he was in a safe space where he could express his true self. With Maggie's help, he began to explore his emotions, understanding that they were valid and deserved to be felt and expressed. As Rick grew more comfortable with his feelings, he started to share more about his past, his fears, and his dreams for the future. He learned to recognize and name his emotions, a skill that had eluded him for so long. Maggie was there every step of the way, her quiet support reinforcing the lessons Rick was learning. Over time, Rick’s relationship with Maggie helped him rebuild his sense of self. He no longer felt the need to hide behind a facade of being "fine." He embraced his emotions, understanding that they were a vital part of his healing process. Rick found strength in his vulnerability, realizing that it was okay to show his true feelings. Today, Rick is a testament to the power of healing and self-discovery. With Maggie and the equine assisted counseling program, he found a path to emotional resilience and self-awareness. Rick learned that he is safe, valued, and worthy of love and understanding. His journey with Maggie transformed his life, teaching him that it is not only okay but necessary to be true to himself. If you or someone you know could benefit from similar services, contact us to learn more about our programs. For those looking to make a difference, consider donating to support services that empower youth like Rick on their path to healing and growth.
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Finding Strength and Healing from Trauma: Rosa's Journey with Belle in Equine Assisted Counseling5/29/2024  Rosa* walked slowly toward her new therapist, her heart heavy with the memories that had haunted her for years. The path to this place had been long and arduous, marked by a series of painful experiences from childhood that had cast long shadows into her adulthood. Today, she was meeting the STEPS Herd. Upon entering the pasture, Rosa was immediately drawn to Belle. As Rosa approached, Belle lifted her head from the hay, her large brown eyes locking onto Rosa's. There was something profoundly soothing in Belle's gaze, a calmness that seemed to radiate from the very core of the horse. Rosa felt a slight easing of the tightness in her chest, a breath she didn't realize she'd been holding slowly escaping. The equine assisted counseling sessions were a new approach for Rosa, recommended by her former therapist after traditional methods had only scratched the surface of her deep-seated trauma. Belle, a beautiful black and white paint mare, was known for her remarkable ability to connect with people in profound ways, offering a sense of peace and validation through her presence. Belle approached Rosa without hesitation, her movements slow and deliberate. Rosa felt a mix of awe and anxiety as the horse came closer, eventually nuzzling her hand. The simple touch was grounding, pulling Rosa from the swirling vortex of her thoughts into the present moment. Her therapist observed quietly, letting the interaction unfold naturally. In the weeks that followed, Rosa's sessions with Belle became a sanctuary. As she stroked Belle's coat, Rosa would talk, sometimes in halting sentences, other times in a torrent of words, about her past. Belle's calming presence made it easier to face the painful memories, her warmth acting as a balm for Rosa's pain. One particularly difficult session, Rosa found herself overwhelmed by a flood of memories from her childhood. She stopped stroking Belle and sank to the ground, tears streaming down her face. Belle, sensing Rosa's distress, lowered her head and nuzzled Rosa gently. The horse's soft breath against her skin was a reminder of the present, a contrast to the harshness of the past she was reliving. "Feel Belle's presence," the therapist’s voice came softly. "She's here with you, right now." Rosa reached up, running her fingers through Belle's mane. The simple act of connecting with the horse brought her back to the here and now, away from the dark corners of her mind. Belle's steady, rhythmic breathing was like an anchor, grounding Rosa in a moment of safety. As Rosa continued her sessions, she noticed changes within herself. Belle's feedback, though silent, was profound. When Rosa was anxious or angry, Belle would become still, a contrast to Rosa’s inner turmoil. These interactions helped Rosa recognize her own emotions more clearly. She began to understand the impact of her feelings, not just on herself, but on those around her. Belle's reactions were honest and immediate, devoid of judgment, and this unfiltered feedback was invaluable. It allowed Rosa to see her emotions not as something to be feared or suppressed, but as natural responses to her experiences.  One day, during a session, Rosa felt a surge of anger as she recounted an incident from her past. Rosa then quickly tried to push the anger back down. Belle took a few steps back, her ears flicking with unease. Rosa paused, realizing the impact of her avoidance of her emotions. She took a deep breath, consciously acknowledging the emotion. Belle's ears relaxed, and she stepped forward again, closing the gap between them. "You're learning to manage your emotions," the therapist observed. "Belle is showing you how it’s okay to feel what you’re feeling." Rosa nodded, a small smile forming on her lips. For the first time in a long while, she felt a sense of control over her own emotions, a sense of empowerment. The validation Rosa found through Belle's treatment was transformative. Belle accepted her without hesitation, offering companionship without demands. This unconditional acceptance helped Rosa see her own worth and strengths. She began to believe in her ability to heal, to find peace amidst the chaos of her past. Months later, Rosa stood beside Belle, her hand resting on the horse's neck. The journey was far from over, but Rosa felt a resilience she hadn't known before. Belle had not just been a companion; she had been a guide, leading Rosa through the labyrinth of her traumas to a place of acceptance and strength. As Rosa pressed her forehead gently against Belle's, she whispered, "Thank you." The mare nickered softly, as if acknowledging the words. In that moment, surrounded by the quiet of the stable and the steady presence of Belle, Rosa felt a profound sense of gratitude and hope for the future. *Name and details changed to protect client privacy and identity. Photo does not depict real client. Belle is proudly sponsored by Navy Federal Credit Union. To join Belle's Carrot Club and support her powerful work, visit Belle's page. Want to work with Belle as a client? Fill out the Counseling Interest Form!   Recovering from traumatic experiences is a deeply personal journey, and not every approach works for everyone. Anyone who has experienced a deeply stressful, upsetting, or traumatic event can develop PTSD. If you're searching for an alternative to traditional office-based therapy, let us introduce you to the incredible world of Equine Assisted Counseling. At STEPS With Horses, we believe in the power of combining horses and human connection to facilitate healing. Join us as we explore how our Relational Equine-Partnered Counseling approach can address each cluster of PTSD and provide a path towards renewed strength and hope. Intrusive Thoughts, Feelings, and Memories Dealing with the intense emotions and physical sensations associated with past traumas can be overwhelming. Nightmares, flashbacks, and unwanted memories make everyday life a challenge. This is where our equine partners come in. With their innate ability to sense human emotions, they become powerful allies in helping us recognize triggers, manage negative feelings, and develop coping skills. Together, we'll navigate through the difficult moments and find ways to restore peace and emotional balance. Avoidance and Numbing We all have a natural tendency to avoid painful thoughts and emotions linked to our trauma. But what if you had a judgment-free space to express yourself openly? That's exactly what our equine partners provide. Through building a relationship with them, you'll create a safe environment that encourages vulnerability and reduces avoidance of people, places, and things associated with your past trauma. Equines will guide you in practicing calming techniques and gradually help you face the triggers that once seemed insurmountable. They understand the importance of fostering trust and healing, supporting you in reconnecting with the world around you. Patterns of Negative Thoughts and Mood Trauma can make us feel disconnected from ourselves and others, trapping us in a cycle of negativity. However, the presence of these majestic creatures has a magical effect. Just being around them sparks a sense of joy and connection that can be transformative. Equines have a unique way of awakening the "connecting part" of our brains, allowing us to rediscover the beauty of human relationships. Engaging in physical activities with them reignites our passions and revitalizes our motivation for life's everyday joys. Physical and Emotional Reactivity Living with constant hypervigilance and an underlying sense of unease takes its toll. Equines, as prey animals, are naturally alert and aware of their surroundings. They provide a powerful example of being vigilant while also finding moments of relaxation and enjoyment. Spending time with these gentle giants will teach you to let your guard down, view your surroundings with clarity, and experience a sense of peace. As you engage with them, you'll witness firsthand their ability to reduce reactivity and find harmony within their environment. Take the First Step Towards Healing! If you're ready to embark on a journey of healing and transformation, STEPS With Horses is here to support you every step of the way. Our Equine Assisted Counseling program offers a compassionate and innovative approach to address PTSD. Reach out today and take that first courageous step towards reclaiming your life. And to those who wish to make a lasting impact, your generous support as a donor enables us to continue providing life-changing services to those in need. Give a gift today! Contact us by phone at 682-219-8733 or send us a message to learn more about our services and start your journey today. *Photos depict models, not actual STEPS clients
 Living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be a daily battle, affecting individuals of all ages. Coping with the aftermath of traumatic experiences requires a unique and holistic approach to healing. Equine assisted counseling, an innovative counseling approach, offers a powerful avenue for individuals with PTSD to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and recovery. In this blog post, we will explore how the presence of equines, the tranquil herd environment, and the psychotherapeutic process itself can help clients find solace, build resilience, and reclaim their lives. Staying Grounded in the Presence of Equines Equines have an innate ability to sense and respond to human emotions, providing a remarkable sense of grounding and presence. When engaging in equine assisted counseling, clients often find solace in the comforting presence of these majestic animals. The physicality and immediacy of interacting with equines help individuals stay grounded in the present moment, allowing them to step away from the overwhelming memories and anxieties that frequently accompany PTSD. Creating a Safe Space within the Tranquil Herd Environment The serene and tranquil environment where equine assisted counseling takes place can be profoundly therapeutic for clients with PTSD. Equines live in a tightly bonded herd, characterized by a sense of safety, trust, and acceptance. As clients enter this environment, they experience a unique sense of belonging, free from judgment or expectations. The herd’s peacefulness and non-verbal communication become a catalyst for emotional healing and growth. Processing Difficult Experiences and Emotions The powerful presence of equines in equine assisted counseling sessions can help clients navigate and process difficult experiences and emotions associated with PTSD. As clients form connections with the equines, they often find it easier to express and explore their own traumatic memories. Equines become gentle guides in the healing process, allowing individuals to confront and work through their emotions at a pace that feels manageable.  Recognizing the Window of Tolerance Equine assisted counseling empowers clients to recognize their own “window of tolerance” – the range of emotional states in which they can function effectively. By observing how equines respond to their emotions, individuals with PTSD can gain insight into their own physiological and emotional reactions. Through this self-awareness, they learn to identify when they are becoming overwhelmed and develop skills to regulate their emotional states more effectively. Learning to Identify Needs, Communicate, and Set Healthy Boundaries Interacting with equines can be a powerful experience for clients, helping them gain insight into patterns of communication, assertiveness, and boundary setting. Equines respond to non-verbal cues and provide immediate feedback, creating a safe space for clients to practice assertiveness and healthy communication. Equine assisted counseling facilitates the development of crucial life skills, empowering individuals to identify their own needs, communicate effectively, and establish healthy boundaries – invaluable tools for navigating relationships and building resilience in their everyday lives. Increasing Positive Feelings and Hopefulness The transformative power of equine assisted counseling extends beyond immediate therapeutic sessions. Clients often report increased positive feelings and a restored sense of hopefulness about the future. The relationships formed with the equines, the supportive therapeutic environment, and the progress made in addressing their PTSD symptoms contribute to a renewed belief in their own resilience and capacity for growth. Improved Self-Worth and Self-Compassion Equine assisted counseling can profoundly impact clients’ perceptions of self. Through their interactions with equines, individuals develop a deep sense of self-acceptance, self-worth, and self-compassion. Equines, with their ability to meet individuals exactly where they are, empower clients to embrace their vulnerabilities, strengths, and unique qualities. As clients witness the non-judgmental response from these intuitive creatures, they begin to see themselves through a lens of kindness and appreciation  STEPS With Horses, a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to equine assisted mental health services, offers two distinct approaches to address PTSD in different age groups. Our Relational Equine-Partnered Counseling approach focuses on building safe and trusting relationships with equines, integrating principles of interpersonal neurobiology, and creating a space for clients to explore their personal beliefs and experiences. This approach is designed for older children, teens, and adults, emphasizing experiential therapy and the therapeutic power of the equine-human connection. For younger children ages 4 and older, STEPS offers Equine-Partnered Play Therapy. This form of play therapy enables children to engage with miniature horses while expressing and processing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through play – their language, and toys – their words. The presence of these horses aids children in gaining greater self-regulation, self-control, empathy, self-awareness, decision-making, communication, and confidence. By harnessing the healing power of equines, STEPS With Horses provides invaluable support to those living with PTSD, helping them rediscover their strength, resilience, and hope for a brighter future. If you are interested in experiencing the power of the human-equine relationship, contact us at www.stepswithhorses.org/contact Interested in giving the life-changing gift of equine assisted counseling? Support our clients and our therapy herd at www.stepswithhorses.org/donate Categories All Archives Troy* was a Navy veteran who had lost several friends to suicide. He had also attempted suicide himself and struggled with PTSD from this experience. Despite his best efforts, Troy found himself overwhelmed by grief and anxiety. He was struggling to find a way to process his emotions and move forward. One day, his cousin suggested he try equine assisted counseling. When Troy arrived for his first session, he was highly anxious. He had never worked with horses before and wasn’t sure what to expect. He was immediately drawn to a horse named Sassy who was the first to approach him. Despite her bold approach, there was something calming about Sassy that drew Troy toward her. As Troy spent more time with Sassy, he began to notice how her behavior changed when his emotions changed. Recognizing changes in Sassy’s behavior helped Troy begin to gain a greater awareness of his own emotions and new perspective on how he was feeling. With Sassy by his side, Troy felt more comfortable to talk about his experiences, even the traumatic ones, with more ease. He found that having a hand on Sassy’s neck helped him stay calmer during these conversations. Through his time with Sassy, Troy also began to explore his own sense of self since leaving the military. He realized that he struggled with decision-making and was often unsure of what he wanted. But, as Troy continued to work with Sassy and the other horses, he became more confident in recognizing how they communicated with him. In turn, Troy became more confident in recognizing his own needs and communicating them to the horses. As Troy approached the end of his time in equine assisted counseling, he recognized many ways that the horses had helped him change. He noticed that he was more confident, more self-aware, and better able to manage his emotions. Troy expressed gratitude for the experience and how he would continue to use the skills learned from his time with Sassy for the rest of his life. You can help military veterans like Troy during Mental Health Awareness Month! For every donation of $15 or more during the month of May 2023, North Texas Giving Day and The Ramesh and Kalpana Bhatia Family Foundation will add an extra $15, amplifying the impact of your contribution. Donate at https://www.northtexasgivingday.org/organization/stepswithhorses *Names and details have been changed to protect client privacy and identity
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