Braveheart Equine Assisted Therapy
Connecting Humans and Horses to Promote Healing and Hope
We partner with Braveheart Equine Assisted Therapy, which is facilitated by Cara Strickland, to provide somatic and experiential modalities to help our clients recover from traumatic events and other emotional disturbances. We utilize the innate human and horse connection to build distress tolerance, adaptability and impulse control that otherwise could interfere with healthy relationships and connection. This unique bond provides a non-judgmental environment to explore deeply vulnerable parts of our story.
You can expect an immersive hands on experience and to develop a personal relationship with one of our horses: Milo, Willow, Ranger and Ace.
We will work together as a team to build confidence, emotionally regulate, set boundaries, and better understand healthy connection and relationship dynamics.
Equine services are available for all individuals, couples, families, children (ages 10+) and groups. Workshop opportunities are throughout the year and opportunities will be updated regularly.
Please note: All equine assisted therapy sessions take place on the ground and do not include riding. Equine sessions are located off site*
How Does It Work?
We all know, horses are large and powerful. Their size alone creates a natural opportunity to overcome fear and develop confidence.
Working alongside a horse, in spite of in trepidation one might have, creates confidence and provides wonderful insight when dealing with other intimidating, scary and challenging situations in life.
Equine-assisted therapy involves techniques that foster safety, consent, choice, self-empowerment, trust, and compassion. Such techniques can help you feel more in control of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors affected by traumatic experiences.
Equine Therapy is experiential in nature, meaning that participants learn about themselves and others by taking part in activities with the horses, and then processing or discussing feelings, behaviors, and patterns. Equine therapy has the added advantage of utilizing horses, dynamic and powerful living beings that traditional therapy can not.
What Clients Are Saying…
“I have been a client of Cara’s for five years now. I certainly would not be where I am now without God and her. She has been there with me every step of the way. I have battled childhood sexual assault, trauma, abandonment, addiction, divorce, jail, rehab, attempted suicide, and everything else called life. Cara helped me to understand and to process so I could heal. She was able to use EMDR therapy that was life changing physically and psychologically. Cara’s resolve, support, and love for me never wavered. She always valued me and made me feel safe. If you would have asked me five years ago if I thought that I would have the life I have now I would have told you no way. Cara is incredible. Tears fill my eyes when I think about how she never abandoned me despite it all. Cara is an incredible weapon of God. She along with your hard work can help you to process, heal, and break generational curses. She stood in the gap for me and will do so for you. I am forever grateful.”
– Jake
“Cara Changed my life! I came to her broken and shattered and she provided me with so much love and support! I have been through a lot of counseling throughout my life, and she hands-down is the most kind, professional and gifted counselor ever! I have grown so much, learned so much and with her guidance and support have moved past my deepest pain. Without her I would not be the person that I am and I thank God for her everyday!”
- Shelly
"Cara is an angel on earth! There is no one more kind and compassionate than her! I came to her at the darkest moment of my life and she was the light that guided me back into a life of happiness and joy! She is an amazing person and phenomenal counselor!"
- Jeff
