Equine Therapy Trauma Program

Proposal for Equine Therapy Trauma Program

Targeted for Complex Trauma Recovery

Introduction:

We recognize the profound challenges and complexities associated with addiction recovery. At One Step Counseling, we believe in harnessing the healing power of nature and animals, specifically equines, to aid in trauma recovery.

Program Overview:

Our Equine Therapy Trauma Program is a specialized therapeutic intervention focused on using the unique bond between horses and humans to address complex trauma. The curriculum is deeply rooted in proven therapeutic methods such as mindfulness, polyvagal theory, and internal family systems.

At the heart of our Equine Therapy Trauma Program lies the holistic approach to healing, harmoniously merging modern therapeutic methodologies with the timeless wisdom of nature. This synergy aims not only at addressing the symptoms but at deep-rooted healing.

The foundation of the program revolves around the bond between humans and horses. Equines, being highly sensitive creatures, act as mirrors to our emotions and internal states. They provide an immediate feedback loop, which helps participants to become more self-aware, recognize patterns, and initiate change.

Furthermore, by integrating holistic modalities such as energy healing, guided nature meditations, and breathwork, participants are immersed in a transformative experience that addresses the body, mind, and soul. This multidimensional approach ensures that while the mind is gaining insight through therapies like mindfulness and Internal Family Systems, the body is nurtured through grounding exercises, and the spirit is rejuvenated through the pure, untainted connection with nature and the horses.

Our chosen blend of techniques not only accelerates trauma recovery but also creates a space for healing insights and ensures a balanced, holistic journey. Each session is curated to ensure a progressive experience, ensuring participants walk away with not just relief but a profound, long-lasting shift towards holistic well-being.

Program Details:

Frequency & Duration: Once a week, for an hour.

Participants: Up to 5 individuals per group.

Transport: We will provide pick-up and drop-off services for participants.

Location: 9651 Chumuckla Springs Road, Jay, Fl, 32565, a serene setting conducive to healing and reflection.

Curriculum:

Equine-Human Connection: Develop trust, set boundaries, and understand non-verbal cues by interacting with the horses.

Mindfulness: Grounding exercises and present moment focus techniques complemented by the calming presence of horses.

Polyvagal Theory: Understanding one's "state" of nervous system response (safe and social, fight or flight, or shutdown) and how horses can help regulate these states.

Internal Family Systems: Exploring and healing different parts of the self, using the relationship with the horse as a mirror to internal dynamics.

3 Principles: creating space for healing insights. 

Benefits:

Extended Benefits of the Equine Therapy Trauma Program

Enhanced Self-awareness: Through interaction with horses, participants often gain heightened awareness of their emotions, actions, and reactions. This clarity provides a solid foundation for personal growth and understanding.

Improved Emotional Regulation: The immediate feedback loop horses offer helps participants identify triggers and practice real-time emotional regulation.

Increased Confidence: Overcoming fears and forming bonds with a large animal like a horse can be a significant confidence booster. It’s a testament to one's ability to overcome challenges and adapt.

Physical Benefits: Engaging with horses can provide mild physical exercise, improving circulation, motor coordination, and balance.

Social Skill Development: Group sessions cultivate a sense of camaraderie, teaching individuals how to trust and communicate effectively in a group setting.

Strengthened Resilience: By facing and processing past traumas in a supportive setting, participants learn to build resilience against future challenges.

Reduction in Feelings of Isolation: Sharing unique experiences with horses and fellow participants can diminish feelings of loneliness and establish a sense of belonging.

Reconnection with Nature: Spending time on the farm and engaging with horses helps individuals reconnect with nature, an aspect often overlooked but essential for holistic well-being.

Developing Empathy: Interacting with horses, which are highly sensitive creatures, allows participants to cultivate a deeper sense of empathy, a skill that translates positively to human interactions.

Enhanced Communication Skills: Horses communicate primarily through body language, teaching participants to be more aware of non-verbal cues, improving their overall communication proficiency.

Mind-Body Harmony: Integrating mindfulness and grounding exercises with physical interactions with horses encourages a harmonious mind-body connection.

Empowerment: Achieving milestones in the program, be it forming a bond with a horse or understanding a personal trauma, fosters a sense of empowerment and agency over one's life.

Spiritual Connection: For many, the bond between humans and animals touches on something deeply spiritual, providing a sense of connection to something larger than oneself.

Catharsis and Emotional Release: Horses often facilitate emotional breakthroughs, allowing for cathartic releases that might be challenging to achieve in traditional therapy settings.

Enhanced Problem-solving Skills: Working with horses often requires creative thinking and adaptability, refining problem-solving skills that can be applied in everyday life.

Restorative Sleep Patterns: Many participants find improved sleep patterns, as the combination of physical activity, emotional work, and connection with nature promotes more restful sleep.

These benefits, when experienced in synergy, promise not only recovery from trauma but also a comprehensive enhancement of life quality, encompassing emotional, physical, and social dimensions. Financial Model:

Program Fee: $600 for 5 people per 1 session.  In order to have best benefits from the program we encourage weekly or by weekly participation for min 6 - 8 weeks period. Includes transportation, therapy session, and any resources or materials provided.

Package Offer: TBD

Payment Terms: Monthly invoicing with net-30 terms.

Note: A portion of these funds will be utilized for the upkeep of our horses, ensuring their wellbeing, as they play an integral role in the healing process.

Thank you for considering this proposal. We genuinely believe in the transformative power of equine therapy, especially when combined with proven therapeutic strategies. Our primary goal is to enhance the recovery journey for your clients, providing them with tools and experiences that lead to long-lasting healing.