The Healing Power of Horses: Belle Shares the Secrets of Equine Assisted Counseling

Bob: Hey there, everyone! It's Bob, your favorite mini therapy horse, and today I've got a special guest joining me for an interview. Please welcome my dear herd mate, Belle!
Belle: Hi, Bob! Thanks for having me.
Bob: Of course, Belle! Now, let's dive into your background. I heard you've had quite the journey. Can you tell us a bit about where you came from and how you ended up here?
Belle: Sure thing, Bob. My journey began when I was pulled from an Oklahoma kill lot back in December of 2014. It was a rough start, but things started looking up when I came to the Thomas Foundation Second Chance Horse Rescue with my friend Catalina. I moved around a bit before coming back to the Thomas Foundation. In late 2021, I was honored to join the STEPS herd and start my next life chapter.

Bob: Wow, quite the adventure! Now, let's talk more about equine assisted counseling. You've developed a reputation for really being an expert at helping humans heal. Can you share your perspective on how it helps?
Belle: Equine assisted counseling provides a safe space for clients to feel grounded and discuss stressful or upsetting experiences. Being in the presence of horses like us helps clients feel more at ease and open to exploring their emotions.
Bob: That makes sense, Belle. How do you see the feedback from equines helping people to recognize their emotions and gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors?
Belle: We are incredibly sensitive animals, Bob. We can pick up on subtle cues from humans and reflect their emotions back to them. For example, if a client approaches me feeling anxious, I respond authentically to that anxiety, helping the client recognize and process their own feelings. This feedback loop fosters self-awareness and emotional insight.
Bob: Interesting, Belle. Equine assisted counseling also offers opportunities for clients to practice life skills. Can you give us some examples of these skills?
Belle: Absolutely, Bob. Clients have the chance to practice calming techniques, such as deep breathing and visualization, while interacting with us. They also learn important communication skills by working with us nonverbally and setting boundaries in our interactions. These skills are invaluable for managing stress and building healthy relationships.

Bob: Lastly, Belle, how do you think equine assisted counseling helps clients explore patterns and parallels between their experiences with equines and their day-to-day lives?
Belle: Equine assisted counseling allows clients to draw parallels between their interactions with us and their everyday experiences. For instance, if a client struggles with trust issues, they may notice similarities between their relationship with me and their relationships with others. By exploring these patterns, clients can gain insight into their behaviors and make positive changes in their lives.
Bob: Thank you for sharing your insights with us, Belle. If you're inspired by our work and want to support us in helping more people, consider donating through the Seen Through Horses campaign. Your contributions go directly towards supporting Belle, myself, and our herd mates in providing healing and support to those in need. Together, we can make a difference! 
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Want to work with Belle as a client? Fill out our Counseling Interest Form!
Want to hear from Belle directly and become one of her biggest fans? Join Belle's Carrot Club!

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