Mental wellness is a priority for most people, and a program in Shepparton is bringing hope to those who need it the most through animal companionship.
For almost 20 years, Horses for Hope has created bonds between rescue horses and program participants.
The equine-assisted narrative therapy program is an unconventional mental health program designed to assist youth, families and carers with their unique challenges.
“It’s our own knowledge, and you mix that with solid theory and practice from both a horse point of view, a therapy point of view and the experience,” founder and owner Colin Emonson said.
The program focuses on creating trust between a human-wary horse or pony and a participant.
By creating this bond, it helps the horse trust the people around them and empowers the participant, strengthening connection-building skills and leadership, as well as self-efficacy.
“It’s about being reciprocal,” Mr Emonson said.
“People come here to help the horses ... but they’ve also overcome something in themselves.”
The horses they care for are often overcoming trauma, and will eventually be returned to their owners.
Participants come from all walks of life, with conditions and challenges ranging from mental illness, such as anxiety disorders and ADHD, to physical disabilities and trauma.
The organisation has five values that inform all elements of its practice.
These values are respect, compassion, courage, working together and accountability.
Participants become involved in the program through referrals, either through service providers, NDIS reporting or private referrals.
Horses for Hope is a non-profit and is reliant on community support to keep its programs running. To donate, head to horsesforhope.org.au/donate
For any other inquiries, visit horsesforhope.org.au or phone 0448 559 365.