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Can horses really sense human emotions? Join me, Jeff Holden, as I uncover the profound mental health benefits of equine assisted therapy with Donna Eckwortzel, Founder and Executive Director of Hearts Landing Ranch. Donna’s unique program at Hearts Landing Ranch allows participants to bond with rescued horses without ever riding them, harnessing the horses' natural instincts as prey animals to create a therapeutic environment ripe for emotional healing. Hear how being present with these empathetic animals can transform lives, and begin the healing process from PTSD, depression, abuse and trauma.

We'll talk with Deanna about the moving stories of resilience and recovery, firsthand after her family found hope from a traumatic event through Donna’s compassionate equine therapy services. We also touch on the powerful combination of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy with equine-assisted psychotherapy, showcasing Deanna's nine-year-old grandaughter's journey to overcome her fears and anxieties. This episode shines a light on the critical role of accessible mental health resources and how horses play an integral part in the healing process.

Explore the intricate dynamics of equine-assisted psychotherapy, from emotional exercises that help clients manage their feelings. Through a client-driven approach and a dedicated team of human therapists and equine specialists, Hearts Landing Ranch offers a non-judgmental space for self-discovery and healing. Listen to a touching narrative from Anabel, an employee from the Placer County DA's office. Be inspired by the incredible work at Hearts Landing Ranch and the profound impact of equine therapy on victims of trauma, veterans, and first responders.

For more information about the ranch visit: https://www.heartslandingranch.com/
Facebook: HeartsLandingRanch
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@heartslandingranch

Episode Highlights
(01:38 - 02:52) Rescued Ranch Horses Find Home
(03:53 - 05:12) Animal Behavior and Human Perception
(12:09 - 13:00) Youth Programs Making Positive Impact
(25:21 - 26:03) Equine Therapy and Emotional Balls Curriculum
(32:01 - 33:45) Supporting PTSD With Community Events
(40:35 - 42:05) Embracing Grief and Vulnerability
(47:10 - 48:22) Power of Community in Healing
(51:11 - 52:59) Discussing Vulnerability and Ego in Communication
(57:16 - 58:07) Property Expansion Plans and Growth
(01:02:16 - 01:02:53) Rescued Horses Support People

Chapter Summaries
(00:00) Therapeutic Benefits of Equine Therapy
Therapeutic benefits of horses, present moment awareness, and their ability to sense human emotions in a non-riding program.

(14:36) Hearts Landing Ranch Equine Therapy
Family finds healing through equine therapy and EMDR at Hearts Landing Ranch after a traumatic event.

(20:19) Equine Therapy for Trauma Healing
EMDR and EAP combine to heal trauma in a child through equine therapy, emphasizing patience and mutual healing.

(24:38) Equine-Assisted Therapy and Its Impact
Equine-assisted psychotherapy involves client-driven activities with non-judgmental horses, facilitated by a team of therapists and specialists.

(33:58) Healing and Resilience Through Horses
Equine therapy at Heart's Landing Ranch helps participants heal and discover themselves through bonding with horses and confronting emotional obstacles.

(49:28) Healing and Support Through Equine Therapy
Sharing personal stories and working with horses can help heal trauma and break societal taboos.

(01:02:30) Rescued Horses Support People in Need