MHNR Network, LLC
Mental Health News Radio
The Power of Healing with Horses
The Power of Healing with Horses
The Power of Healing with Horses
Thursday 27th February 2020
Discover how equine therapy aids first responders and veterans in mental health journeys. Join Andy Kaufman and Kristin Anna for an insightful discussion.
57 minutes
hopeful
inspiring
informative
vulnerable
supportive
About this podcast
Author:
MHNR Network, LLC
Overview:
Categories:
Body & Mind
Healing Relationships
Sobriety Toolkit
Healing from Sexual Trauma
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
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Episodes:
930 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Healing Through Horses: Empowering First Responders
Episode Overview
- Equine therapy offers unique mental health benefits.
- Checkpoint One supports first responders and veterans.
- Transcendental Meditation aids in healing trauma.
- Building strong teams is pivotal in therapy success.
- Sharing personal stories enhances mental health awareness.
Equine therapy offers a safe space for mental health goals, embracing a team-focused approach to support first responders and veterans.
In this enlightening episode of Mental Health News Radio, host Kristen Sunanta-Walker welcomes guests Andy Kaufman, a retired Army veteran, and Kristin Anna, a horse whisperer, to discuss the transformative power of equine-assisted therapy for first responders and veterans. Their organization, Checkpoint One, leverages the unique bond between humans and horses to provide healing and support for those on the front lines, including police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and veterans.
Kristin Anna introduces listeners to the EGALA model, which stands for Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association. This approach involves a team comprising an equine specialist, a mental health professional, and horses, creating a therapy session that unfolds naturally. The conversation highlights the importance of forming strong support teams to successfully conduct therapy sessions, emphasizing the pivotal role of empathy in the process.
Andy Kaufman shares his personal journey from being a retired Army veteran dealing with multiple injuries and medications to discovering the life-altering benefits of equine therapy. After his experiences at Boulder Crest Retreat, a nonprofit combat veteran holistic facility, Andy learned Transcendental Meditation and engaged in activities like mandala drawing and labyrinth walking that helped transform his outlook on life. His story underscores the value of peer support and holistic healing methods in overcoming the challenges faced by veterans.
The podcast also touches on the alarming statistics regarding suicide rates among first responders, which surpass those killed in the line of duty. This sobering fact underscores the critical need for innovative mental health solutions like those offered by Checkpoint One. Kristen Sunanta-Walker advocates for mental health awareness and the sharing of personal stories.
She encourages listeners to explore the therapy services at Checkpoint One in Virginia, where team building and personal growth activities can help individuals find healing and connection. Through this episode, the hosts and guests aim to inspire, inform, and provide hope to those navigating the complex journey of mental health. By embracing vulnerability and open communication, they foster an environment where listeners feel supported and understood.