 Judy* first came to STEPS with Horses seeking relief from the deep wounds of childhood trauma. For years, she had carried the weight of painful memories, struggling with PTSD that clouded her daily life. Traditional therapy had offered some solace, but Judy felt a profound need for something more—a way to connect her healing journey with a tangible, grounding experience. She found that connection through equine assisted counseling at STEPS with Horses. In those early sessions, Judy learned to trust again, not just others, but also herself. Working alongside a compassionate counselor and gentle horses, she slowly began to unravel the tightly wound threads of her trauma. The horses, with their non-judgmental presence, offered a unique mirror to her emotions, allowing her to process her pain in a safe and nurturing environment. Over time, Judy achieved her initial goals: she processed much of her trauma and significantly reduced her PTSD symptoms. The horses had become silent yet powerful partners in her healing. However, Judy's journey didn’t end there. Recognizing her progress and her growing bond with the horses, the team at STEPS with Horses suggested she transition to their therapeutic horsemanship program. This program, part of the Spectrum of Therapeutic Equine-Partnered Services (STEPS) Model, provides a pathway for clients like Judy to "step down" from clinical counseling services into a non-clinical yet deeply supportive environment. Here, Judy could continue her journey, focusing on building confidence, enhancing her communication skills, and learning horsemanship and riding from a certified therapeutic riding instructor. When Judy first met Starbuck, she was taken aback by his size and beauty. Starbuck, an imposing former dressage show horse, stood tall and proud. Judy was both awed and intimidated. Riding him felt like a daunting challenge. Starbuck was not an easy horse to handle; his strong-willed nature required clear, confident communication. In their initial lessons, Judy struggled. Starbuck seemed to sense her hesitations and responded with his own form of resistance. He would test her boundaries, challenging her to assert herself. There were moments of frustration and doubt, but Judy was determined. She knew that Starbuck’s demands for clear direction and confidence were not just about riding—they mirrored the inner strength she was still learning to harness within herself. With each session, Judy grew more confident. Guided by her instructor, she learned to communicate effectively with Starbuck, using subtle cues and body language to convey her intentions. As she became more assertive, Starbuck began to respond more willingly. Their relationship transformed into a partnership built on mutual respect and trust. Riding Starbuck became a powerful metaphor for Judy’s own journey. Just as she had learned to guide him, she learned to take the reins of her own life, steering herself toward a future not defined by her past. The skills she developed in the therapeutic horsemanship program extended beyond the arena. Her newfound confidence seeped into every aspect of her life, empowering her to face challenges with resilience and grace. Through her work with Starbuck, Judy discovered a profound sense of accomplishment and self-worth. The once intimidating horse became a symbol of her triumph over fear and self-doubt. Each ride was a testament to her strength and the transformative power of the human-horse connection. Judy’s story is just one of many at STEPS with Horses, illustrating the incredible potential of STEPS’ services. From clinical counseling to therapeutic horsemanship, the spectrum of services offered by STEPS provides a holistic approach to healing and growth. For Judy, and countless others like her, the journey with horses is not just about riding—it’s about reclaiming their lives, one step at a time. *Name and details changed to protect client privacy and identity Want to become a client? Fill out our Counseling Interest Form! Interested in supporting Starbuck's work? Join Starbuck's Carrot Club!
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AuthorSTEPS With Horses Archives
February 2025
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