Free Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy Opportunity for Active and Veteran Service Members and Their Families

Highland, UT, August 18, 2020 --(PR.com)-- Through September 30, veteran and active military members may qualify to receive free equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) treatment at Courage Reins. EAP has been successful in helping individuals with various mental, emotional, and social challenges, including trauma and other behavioral health concerns often faced by those who’ve served. Through a $637,700 VA Adaptive Sports Grant awarded to Eagala by the Department of Veteran Affairs, active and veteran military service members can receive eight comprehensive EAP sessions at no cost. This includes coverage for couples and family sessions as well.

Sage O’Brien, a local licensed clinical social worker and the Director of Mental Health at Courage Reins, gained access to this grant funding through the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (Eagala).

“This grant offers a rare opportunity for military members and their families to participate in this non-traditional team approach to treating mental health. Involving horses in the process empowers individuals to ‘see’ their behaviors in the moment and how those behaviors are impacting themselves and others,” O’Brien said.

EAP clients address struggles and explore possible solutions alongside horses and a treatment team with military clinical competency that understands the unique nature of military culture.

“Our specialized treatment team includes an Eagala certified licensed mental health provider, an Eagala certified equine specialist, and three to four horses,” O’Brien said.

Veterans and service members experiencing issues such as problems concentrating or sleeping, trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and/or Covid-related stress may qualify for this unique opportunity. Potential clients interested in free EAP treatment at Courage Reins should contact Sage O’Brien directly at 801.734.5004. Qualifying sessions must begin by Sept. 30 in order to receive funding for this grant calendar year.

Since Courage Reins was founded in 1998, its mission has been to improve the lives of individuals with physical, mental, or emotional challenges through Equine Assisted Therapy. Horses are remarkable therapy animals. Courage Reins is a non-profit organization and 501c., located on 12 acres at 5870 W 10400 N in Highland, Utah. For more information on programs offered and volunteer opportunities available, visit www.couragereins.org.