By Rita Thompson Tinsley
Rise Canyon Ranch is a nonprofit organization dedicated to healing humans through the remarkable method of equine-assisted therapies. And they are making great strides in success.
So, why the equine? According to co-founder and great visionary Dr. Theresa Dubois, “Because the horses are prey animals with highly attuned nervous systems, they mirror human body language and emotional states without judgement, acting as living, breathing biofeedback machines.” This process allows the team to treat trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, along with family dynamic situations.
Dr. Dubois has been in private practice for 14 years as a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT 45316) and Psychoanalyst. Her resume reflects years of study including an M.S. in Psychology and a PsyD/Doctorate in Psychoanalyst. Now, her studies have grown to include those certifications given by EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association).
She’s not only licensed as a Mental Health Professional but is also a Certified Equine Specialist and has a Military Services Individual Designation. The professional staff includes licensed psychiatrists, licensed therapists, and equine specialists, all necessary team players for effective equine therapy.
Co-Founder Dale Dubois, CEO and President, isn’t just a partner in the vision of Rise Canyon Ranch, he is the all-important husband who does so many things and is also EAGALA certified.
The programs offered at Rise Canyon Ranch reach out to every age and just about every issue. There are youth programs, one focusing on reading, another designed to address behavioral, emotional, and mental health concerns. Rise in Strides is a program for teenage girls as they begin to segue into adulthood, to instill confidence and comfort untethered.
The Military program is an invaluable outreach for not only our community veterans but also first responders experiencing emotional and traumatic consequences from their earnest endeavors.
Will Gilliam, a U.S. Marine veteran, has become an indispensable member of the Rise Canyon Ranch staff as Operations Manager. With his military experience, Will has the ability to reach out to other vets, and as a former Texas equestrian, Will knows horses.
He especially knows from experience what active military duty can do to your psyche. He is able to relate to other veterans needing help and can demonstrate the amazing connection between horses and healing.
True Awakenings From the Arena
A veteran of two combat deployments appears to be entirely trapped by her own survival instincts. She is unable to find peace in any normalcy. In the Rise Canyon arena, only a few yards away, Sierra, a powerful mare, stands completely still with her head held high, tracking the veteran’s hyper aware nervous system. Dr. Dubois, another therapist and the equine specialist are standing at the rail in watch.
The veteran’s jaw tightens (though she insists she is fine) as she still stands guard over the imaginary battlefield that only exists in her memory. Dr. Theresa explains, “Her mind is trying to keep her safe by staying on guard, but her body is exhausted from the constant vigil.”
Noting that horses must release tension to survive, horse specialist Lauren indicates for them to check out horse Sierra. The mare cocks her hind hoof and lets out a long fluttering sigh. Dr. Dubois encourages the veteran to match the horse’s exhale, reminding her that she is safe. The vet closes her eyes and forces a long slow exhale. Instantaneously, the mare’s ears drop. With slow deliberate steps she walks toward the vet until her chest is mere inches from her shoulder. Like magic, the horse drops her heavy head right into the crook of the veteran’s arm. Her arms, previously locked tightly, were now softening to wrap around Sierra’s big neck as she buries her face in the mare’s soft mane, releasing tears of sheer and long-awaited relief. Sierra intentionally leans in closer, offering her massive, quiet strength to carry the grief the veteran can no longer hold alone.
If you are interested in becoming a Rise Canyon Ranch volunteer, your services are desperately needed. Please visit risecanyonranch.org
