It has been shown that in the proper environment, horses can make deep connections with people and help bring healing to those who have suffered the kinds of trauma that the Yezidi youth have experienced.
The Springs of Hope Equine-Assisted Therapy and Learning Centre will provide facilities and therapy horses to help the young men and women of the Shariya Camp to form healthy relationships with the horses, and give them skills and responsibilities that will aid them in their growth and healing process.
FACILITY AND QUALIFIED TEAM
By providing a safe environment for creating relationships with the animals, connections are made and emotions can be safely experienced. Riding and caring for horses uses and develops both one’s mind and body.
Skilled equine instructors partner with trauma-responsive counselors to work with riders to help them risk feeling and caring for something outside of themselves. Equine-assisted psychotherapy and learning has been used successfully with PTSD clients to reduce anxiety and depression, as well as promote healthy self-acceptance, social skills, and better understanding of boundaries in relationships.
Springs of Hope desires to build a facility to accommodate 4-5 horses and to have a qualified team of instructors who will work in conjunction with our staff counselors. Personnel needed to maintain and care for the horses will provide job opportunities for local residents.
In addition to the therapeutic benefits mentioned, the Equine-Assisted Therapy and Learning Centre will provide educational opportunities for all the children and students of the Springs of Hope Foundation.
