Horses for Warriors
"In war, there are no unwounded soldiers" - Jose Norosky
Horses for Warriors was developed by Horse Wisdom specifically to focus on emotional support and treatment for issues which are unique to our OIF/OEF service members, such as PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury).
For the past four years we have been working with both active duty military and veterans near Camp Pendelton in Oceanside CA, most recently with the Wounded Warriros Battalion. The contributions of the participants in the development of our program have been invaluable and helped to further our understanding of how best we can be of service in this critical area.
Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, Growth & Learning incorporates horses experientially to facilitate emotional growth and learning. The horses naturally help people to drop their barriers and are able to effectively mirror human behavior in a way that is powerful yet non-threatening emotionally. EAP is considered a "brief therapy" which can be used as an adjunct to traditional therapy. It can also be a first step in the therapeutic process for those who are not yet ready to participate in traditional therapy.
Horse Wisdom integrates mind-body psychotherapy and the most recent advances in neuro- science to help clients focus attention on the biological and physiological strategies which motivate their behavior. This allows for self-directed reorganization of neuro processes and provides an experienctial basis (practice) for continued well being.
One of the unique aspects of this program is volunteers who are either active duty military, or veterans, who are able to offer participants a level of understanding and support during the therapeutic process which helps facilitate healing. The EAP program utilizes peer-mentors who work closely with participants, alongside our professional staff. The Horse Wisdom staff are licensed mental health professionals and EAGALA certified Equine Specialists.
We believe this unique and positive approach to be a highly effective way to support service members as they reintegrate into family and community life.
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Our fellow creatures give us more than we have ever gave them.
Man, the superior animal?
''Man, the superior animal'' NOT
Excellent article Larry.