Developing confidence, communication and trust
Children suffering from abuse and neglect often exhibit emotional and behavioral issues that are difficult to work with. Being hurt by those who were supposed to take care of them, our children often have trust issues, and are very weary of trusting adults. That is where the equine program can make significant strides.
How equine counseling works:
Diversion - our children focus on grooming, feeding, caring for, and riding the horse, rather than their trauma. This diversion allows an opportunity for their minds to rest from current problems, leaving them feeling refreshed.
Skill Development - Caring for and riding horses mean that our children have to develop news skills, which build self-confidence and help decrease anxiety. We provide a safe place for these children to make mistakes while their developing skills, which is an important tool for conteracting fear of criticism and anxiety.
Communication - As the therapist communicates to the horse, they lead by example that communication is more productive when you talk and not yell. Our children begin to learn how to effectively communicate.
Equine Assisted Counseling
Our equine counseling offers children a safe environment to work through issues of fear, anxiety, self-doubt, and poor communication. We teach the child how to work with and communicate effectively with the horse, indirectly teaching the child how to apply these same skills in their every day lives.
How to help with our equine program
Due to limited resources, Hope Hill has a waiting list of children who want this therapy, but a space has not been made available. Donations to support additional equine counselors, more horses and a new barn would allow us to treat more children through equine therapy.
NEEDS:
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New stable
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4 Rocky Mountain Horses
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Riding gear (boots & helmets)
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Brushes, lead ropes, halters
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Wheelbarrow, buckets, scoop forks
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Rubbermaid watering trough
To make a donation contact Misty Gonzalez at misty@familyconnectioninc.com or 859.753.5670
About Hope Hill's program:
Started in 2005, the program is offered to children in residential and foster care to connect treatment goals with experiential activities and experiences. We incorporate a national 4H curriculum with Saddle Seat riding instructions. Participants have the opportunity to interact with the horses weekly via riding lessons, arena activities, attending demonstrations, or participating in equine-related field trips.
Hope Hill uses Rocky Mountain horses, bred here in Kentucky. These horses are praised for their good nature and affinity for humans. They enjoy the attention our girls provide them and are great for multi-purpose riding.