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~ EquiJourneys ~

An Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Learning Program


	Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Equine-Assisted Learning Defined

EquiJourneys is...

EquiJourneys is a an Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Equine Assisted Learning prevention and treatment therapy program specifically targeted to meet the unique needs of children, adolescents, and their families. Using equine (horse) assisted therapies, in conjunction with other experiential and cognitive therapy approaches, EquiJourneys focuses on the prevention and treatment of behavior, mood, and emotional disorders, recovery from addictions, eating disorders, coping with trauma, abuse, and loss, and teaching constructive life skills. The Cornerstone and rutter of EquiJounreys is Faith in Jesus Christ - embracing the grace, the forgiveness, the unconditional love, and the ultimate healing God gives us.

What is Equine Assisted Psychotherapy & Equine Assisted Learning?

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy is a growing form of Experiential Therapy - using human-horse interactions to provide a variety of cognitive-oriented, therapeutic experiences as a foundation for healing and personal growth. The horse-human relationship provides a unique, emotionally safe platform upon which clients can work through difficult issues and learn life-skills such as improved communication, self-esteem, self-confidence, responsibility, relationship-building, and the opportunity to change thinking patterns from destructive to constructive. Using communication as an example, the person must learn how to communicate with a creature using body language and verbal tone rather than words alone. Horses live in a herd mentality and are super-sensitive to body language and position of humans and other horses at all times. They are also animals of prey. This leads to the "fight or flight" response, an instinct to which we train each horse to respond in a manner that is safe for the people and horses involved The messages sent by body language and tone of voice is the communication to which the horse responds. Much like a reflection in a mirror, the response a horse provides gives the person a clear view at the full message he or she may be sending, possibly totally unaware.

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy provides a setting where the therapist is not dictating to the client, and is instead facilitating a safe environment with client-appropriate exercises during which the client learns something unique fromeach individual attempt, and then choose the approach that is the best fit. Afterward, the client and therapist can explore and process the experience and ways in which it applies to real life situations and relationships. The Experiential Therapy model allows the client to teach himself or herself, and provides the full spectrum of learning modalities - sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. In working through this process, the solution comes from inside the client rather than through dialogue alone in an office setting.

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, like most experiential therapies, is cognitive-based. Cognitive therapy is, by definition, a therapeutic approach which challengesthe basic thoughts and beliefs we live by, perception of oneself and others, and the environment in which we live. Equine Assisted Pscyhotherapy and Learning applies the experience of working with the horse(s) to accomplish a specific task or surpass a specific obstacle. There is an interactive relationship between the horse and the human which makes each step immediately gratifying by itself, with horses giving immediate feedback to the client.

EquiJourneys "EAPAL" Experience-Based Cognitive Approach

EquiJourneys is an equine assisted psychotherapy and learning program("EAPAL") targeted to treat children, adolescents, and their families. The EAPAL program uses equine assisted psychotherapy, in conjunction with other experiential and cognitive therapies, for the prevention and specific treatment of behavior, mood, and emotional disorders including the following: recovery from addictions, eating disorders, coping with trauma, abuse, and loss, and teaching constructive life skills. This cognitive approach targets the root of thought: "perception." Perception is what we believe we see. At the most basic level, it affects what we believe about ourselves and the world around us - and often the beliefs that we allow to limit us. Using EAPAL, clients are presented with the tools to help them choose to look at the world different perspectives as horses challenge us to communicate with body language and tone of voice and only limited vocabulary. Clients work through issues at their own pace and in the order they choose. Time allows the applications from these experiences to be rooted into our nature and character.

EquiJourneys strives to provide a place for children and teenagers to experience the power of this interactive learning, in both prevention and treatment situations. The focus is on the individual and that individual's unique needs. The fundamental right of self-determination is of utmost importance - the individual decides what issues he/she feels safe to explore, as well as when and how to proceed. This is essential for people of all ages - whether in a prevention mode of skill-building or in a treatment mode of change.

Using horse assisted therapy and learning experiences, in addition to counseling and other experience-based modalities, EquiJourneys focuses on the passion for and embracement of *living* an abundant life - focusing on the path taken to each successful step, learning, and growing with each experience. We want kids to dare to dream and hope and believe in themselves. We strive to maintain a non-judgmental, loving, safe and honest atmosphere - respectful of each person's beliefs and choices - filled with life and focused on the "yes" in living rather than limitations. The Cornerstone on which EquiJourneys is built is the love, grace, and complete forgiveness found in a relationship with Jesus Christ. The whole person includes spiritual needs that must be addressed for real healing to occur. We believe life holds wonders and experiences beyond what we can ever imagine.

Why Horses?

Horses are honest and have a basic set of priorities. They are quick to forgive and have no hidden agendas, no biases and no need to place blame. There is an aura of awe when we see them. It is humbling that these magnificent creatures want to be with us, seek to please us, and need us. As we interact with such a creature, this honest response acts as a mirror for us to see how our attitude, body language and tone of voice communicates far more than words alone. Each attempt to communicate a request is separate in the mind of the horse, and this allows us to try repeatedly until we learn to communicate in such a way that we succeed in a positive relationship. Inevitably, we take these lessons and apply them in our other relationships. This therapuetic atmosphere provides us with experiences that teach us lessons we can apply throughout our lives.

The Eyes Through Which We CHOOSE To See

At EquiJourneys we believe each human is unique and equally valuable in who he/she is, in his/her ability to grow, and in what he/she has to offer. This program is built on the grace, love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ. While we will not force our beliefs on any person, we will treat each person with the love and grace set forth in the Bible, and we choose to see each person as nothing less than a wonderful creation of God. We believe unlimited potential and the highest value exists in each person - we focus on what can be, the wonders of what is possible, the reach we have when we believe we can.

Beyond Humane

The care and handling that horses receive from EquiJourneys is a reflection of how we value their roles in our lives. We will not overload or cause any kind of physical or emotional injury to any horse. You will not find "retirement" horses in this program. We strongly believe that each horse working in any form of equine assisted pscyhotherapy and/or equine assisted learning is a horse with a very real "job." Horses do not need to spend their retirement years working in a physically- and emotionally-taxing environment. As with any human involved in helping people, the horse gives a large amount of energy during the exhausting task of remaining focused on individual interaction and processing. Out of respect for these four-legged practitioners, we are committed to keeping each horse's workload balanced to the unique abilities of that horse. Each horse has a threshold over which we have no right to push. In many cases, horses benefit as much as the clients in the EAP process, but it is essential that we remember that they are giving of themselves as much as any human involved. We are dedicated to maintaining the overall wellness of each horse, and we provide environment, nutrition, attention, and veterinary care above the minimum standard. This is true for horses owned by EquiJourneys and horses whose owners have allowed to "donate time" to the therapeutic work.


	THE PROGRAMS

The EquiJourneys "E.A.P.A.L." Approach: Equine Assisted Psychotherapy And Learning

Equine assisted psychotherapy, learning and growth programs are increasingly available across the United States, Canada, Australia and Europe. State-Licensed Practitioners, such as Clinical Social Workers, Psychologists, and Professional Counselors, are discovering that the impact of combining experience-based therapy approaches with horse-human interaction creates a powerful therapy and teaching platform. Insurance companies, as well as Medicaid, are acknowledging EAP as a solid therapeutic practice when conducted by state-licensed therapists that meet specific standards of clinical therapeutic practice (requirements usually include a minimum of a Master's Degree in a counseling field combined with two or more years of supervised specialized post-graduate school practice in a clinical setting).

As with any valid therapeutic approach, the treatment goals and specific activities are chosen according to the unique issues of the client(s). Some examples include the life skills of communication, anger management, conflict resolution, problem-solving, relaitonship-builidng, and healthy coping skills when facing anxiety, grief, trust, post-trauma stress, abuse issues, and eating disorders. There has been a great deal of success in using Equine Assisted Psychotherapy with clients in recovery for alcohol anddrug addiction, as well as other addictions. Many people were first exposed to horses in the therapy process when it was used in the movie, "28 Days," starring Sandra Bullock as an alcohol and drug addict in recovery. Of course, there is a healing process and a self-awareness that occurs within the relationship between a person and a horse that is difficult to define using words. The person experiences growth in self-esteemand self-confidence, and receives the gift of being needed and developing a depth of trust few ever realize. Defining this relationship is difficult using words alone - it is something best understood through experience.

EquiJourneys offers equine assisted psychotherapy programs in three forms: Individual, Family, and Group. The psychotherapy program uses an approved state-licensed therapist as the primary facilitatorin all three forms, and a treatment plan is set up with the client(s) to address the issues on which the client(s) chooses to work. Family Therapy is beneficial in order to address the social environment in which the client lives. Group therapy may be used with EquiJourneys clients who are dealing with simlar issues, and for clients who may benefit from a group setting but may not need individual therapy. Each of these forms of equine assisted psychotherapy are described in further detail below.

The equine assisted learning program is aimed at prevention and growth - to build life skills and self-esteem, and expose adolescents and children to the healing relationships possible with horses. This program does not require the clincal therapy approach or specific treatment planning. Many horse professionals engage in this type of program as it does not require a therapist. EquiJourneys EAL program includes many options - from basic riding lessons and training to prevention programming aimed at growth goals with activities designed to teach specific skills for living - constructively.

The Prevention Program

The EquiJourneys Prevention Program uses Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Learning to introduce children and adolescents to the healing and teaching world of horses before they turn to self-destructive behavior. The goal in this facet of the program is to arm kids with the tools they will need in life - such as coping skills, communication skills, responsibility - all in a way that builds self-confidence and self-esteem. Activities included are spending time around a variety of horses of all ages, learning how to communicate with the horse both on the ground and in the saddle, riding lessons, trail riding and riding for pleasure, plus playday shows and higher-level shows, when appropriate. Other opportunities include leasing horses, volunteering to care for horses, and working at the barn under an approved trainers.

The Therapy Program

The EquiJourneys Treatment and Therapy Program is geared toward children and adolescents who are currently in need of intervention to treat destructive behaviors, eating disorders, addictions, emotional problems, ADD/ADHD, and many other psychological , emotional, and behavioral disorders, and recovery from abuse and other traumas. This program includes the same activities offered in the Prevention Program, plus working with a State-Licensed Therapist for counseling and processing what the individual has experienced and learned, and how to apply those lessons in relationships and situations on a broad basis. The Treatment and Therapy Program will provide services on-site for group therapies - at hospitals, residential programs, and outpatient organizations.

Group Therapy and Education Programs

EquiJourneys offers two group components in its Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Equine Assisted Learning programs: Education and Group Therapy. Currently, EquiJourneys is offering services in three locations in northwest Houston: two in the Cypress area and one in the Tomball-Woodlands area.

The Group Therapy Program is offered to clients working on specific issues in which a group setting would be a beneficial therapeutic approach. Teamwork presents unique active interaction with other people and provides clients with an opportunity to actively work with others toward the achievement of a specified goal. Group therapy, like individual therapy, requires that treatment goals be unique and address the specific issues on which the client group needs to work. In addition to clients already involved in individual psychotherapy with EquiJourneys, referrals are welcomed to compliment work ongoing with other therapists and programs, allowing therapists to incorporate equine assisted psychotherapy into their practice without the cost of running their own program. EquiJourneys will work on-site with in-patient hospitals, residential homes, treatment centers, shelters for battered women, and other programs - county, state, federal and private programs. EquiJourneys will either bring the horse(s) to the group, or the group may schedule a visit to one of the ranches out of which EquiJourneys operates.

The Education Program focuses on promotion of equine assisted psychotherapy, learning, and grwoth - targeting therapists and other professionals in the counseling field, horse professionals, programs, and other organizations or groups, as well as families. This is an introduction to the positive skill-building and the healing nature of the horse-human relationship and experience, with the intent of showing how EAP may be used to enhance their areas of expertise. As with the group therapy program, EquiJourneys will offer demonstrations on-site or at one of the EquiJourneys-partner ranches.

Additional Equine Assisted Learning Services

Training the Horse & the Owner

In additon to the therapy and personal growth programs listed above, the Equine Assisted Learning branch of EquiJourneys includes horse-owner training, and horsemanship instruction. "Horse & Owner Training" includes training both horse and owner with specific goals set up in a private contract and the course is determined according to current abilities of both the horse and the owner, and the level of training desired. The owner (and family, if applicable) is strongly encouraged to be fully involved in the training process - I believe that the best approach for both horse and owner is to educate the owner in how to train so that he/she will be able to tackle future training challenges with a good set of horsemanship tools.

Horsemanship Training

Riding Instruction is actually something I prefer to call "Horsemanship Training," as I believe that I have an ethical obligation to teach a student how to handle a horse on the ground and in the saddle. The relationship of trust and respect between the student and the horse begins immediately upon the first gentle stroke of the nose. As a wise person once said, "You lead the horse you ride." In other words, if you do not have a respectful relationship of trust on the ground, you are not likely to attain it in the saddle. Its important to learn how to handle a horse in a variety of situations, and to know when there is a dangerous situation approaching in time to move oneself and horse from its path, and to know when to completely remove oneself, let the move away, and pick up the leadline in a safe location or get help from someone else in sorting out any problem. Human safety must come first at all times. Even the simple task of retrieving a horse safely from pasture requires the ability to read the body language of the target horse and the rest of the horse around him. Therefore, I include groundwork and riding focusing on (1) understanding communictation between the person and the horse, and (2) balanced riding skills that will best serve whatever discipline of riding the student pursues currently and in the future.

Lessons, Safety, and the FUN Factor

I work with begiinning through advanced riders in English and Western riding, including the following: Hunter Pleasure (not over fences) and Saddleseat; Western Pleasure, working Western (depending on availability of cattle), Barrel and Pole Racing, and other speed riding around obstacles; and trail-endurance riding and conditioning. The location of the stables from which I do most of my work is along Cyrpess Creek and the endless trails that wind around it. I also condtion and train horses in halter, as well as ongoing conditioning for horses, such as stallions standing at stud, who must look their best everyday. Once a student and/or horse has moved beyond what I can best teach him/her, I have referral sources to the next level in trainers. I also take students to local and regional horse shows if the student seeks to compete in the showring. We have a solid group of practiced endurance and competitive trail riders in the Cypress area who are always happy to add another trail rider to the family. Whatever training and/or riding discipline the client chooses, I focus on balanced and centered riding in a physcially, emotional, and mentally constructive manner - for both the horse and the rider. My style - by instinct and choice - is to allow each person to be an individual - choosing and changing goals over time. Perhaps most importantly, I teach in a nature of encouragement and I tryto be constructive in any criticism - offering options and/or alternate approaches to the student. This is what I call the "Fun Factor," and I believe it is essential for learning to continue. Knowing we will make mistakes provides the freedom from shame and allows us to move ahead with the mindset of the learning process. There are many horse-people who have difficulty dealing with people, fostering a negative or void atmosphere with poor communication, and there are others who, still worse, will focus on the negative and actually create a situation where the student will have poor self-esteem as a result.

I have three foundation rules underlying riding lessons and training: (1) Human safety must always come first in every activity we do - wearing a helmet is not optional if a student is a minor, and is strongly encouraged for adults. All horses used in the equine assisted psychotherapy and learning programs are put through training specifically tailored toward the safety of the human handlers above anything else. For example, every horse is trained to never turn away from a person in any situation. In the presence of a human, my horses are to face the person unless the human signals the horse to do otherwise. (2) Horse safety and well-being is second only to the safety of a person. Safe handling, fencing, equipment, tack, water-intake, vaccination, hoofcare, and nutrition are monitored carefully. We also watch closely for any changes in mobility or mood. We will not overload or allow a horse with health problems be a primary therapy horse. This is a full-time job for the horse, requiring a great deal of energy to communicate with a person who is also learning how to communicate. We use Sports Medicine Boots and carefully tend to horses after each session with abundant love and relaxation. For this reason, EquiJourneys does not accept "retired" horses as therapy candidates. The facilitation they must perform is definitely a career. (3) The third rule applies to the humans and the horses... all training, riding and therapeutic work ends on a positive note - one of reflection on the growth that has occurred. The client and therapist are responsible for ending the interaction wtih the horse on a positive note in order to make sure the horse will have a good attitude in the next session.


	The E.A.P.A.L. Team

The Equine Specialist in Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy

As explained on THE PROGRAMS page, an organization called Equine Assisted Growth And Learning Association (EAGALA) has been a pioneer in certification workshops and in setting professional standards for Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Learning programs with a setting up an approach involving a team approach combining a clinical mental health professional and an equine professional. At EquiJourneys, we use a variety of models, choosing each approach according to the needs of the client(s). Martha White of Classic Bloodstock has partnered with EquiJourneys - offering her time, her horses, and even her home in the effort to bring this program to more clients in need. Pictured on this page are many of her horses - all top quality Egyptian Arabians who have been carefully raised and/or trained with safety as priority. The benefits of working as a teamare obvious - with safety, benefits of observation by two professionals, and the accountability of two professionals working together for the well-being of both the client(s) and horse(s). Even though Shannon McCullough - who qualifies as both a clinical mental health professional and an equine professional - the team approach is often most beneficial. Martha fills the role of the equine specialist in this capacity as the neeed arises. Her extensive experience and expertise in handling and caring for horses are invaluable. As we look toward the future of EquiJourneys, the role filled by Martha, and those roles filled by other people involved in the program, are the essential elements for EquiJourneys to truly reach out to troubled youth. (See THE PEOPLE page for a list of people who are giving to EquiJourneys daily).

Classic Bloodstock's Horses

Martha's horses are most fortunate to be found by her. Her horses have some of the most coveted bloodlines of Egyptian Arabian horses, yet many of her horses were actual rescues from auctions and people who could not cope with the requirements of the aftermath of a traumatic injury. She currently stand 2 Straight Egyptian stallions at stud, both which have extreme atheletic ability in a classic Arabian package. The stallions are Ibn Shai and Ali Bayfire, and the five colts pictured above are some of their 2004 sons.

Ibn Shai [(Simeon Shai x Bint Romanaa) 1995 Bay, 14.3 hands, Straight Egyptian, Blue List, Al Khamsa, Asil, strain: Kuhaylan-Ajuz Rodan]was malnourished in his youth and this stunted his growth. However, Shai rose above the odds and is typey, correct and very smooth. He has tons of tail carriage and charisma. He's a delightful horse to ride who works happily in a snaffle bit and an open bridle. Western Pleasure, Hunter Pleasure, a nd trail-riding - he has done them all and done them well. The best part of Shai, though, is that he "stamps" his babies with his classic beauty and motion. Ibn Shai is a breeder's dream! His sire, *Simeon Shai, was the 1991 World Champion at Salon du Cheval in Paris, U.S. and Canadian National Champion Stallion, and he won Scottsdale all in one year. Ibn Shai's dam, Bint Romanaa, was a U.S. National Top Ten Halter Mare, Top Ten Side Saddle and Top Ten Native Costume. Most of her sons are exported. Shai's stud fee is $2500 for 2004.

Ali Bayfire [(Ali Zaar x MG Rimanah by Moniet el Sharaf)1995 bay, 15.2 hands, Straight Egyptian, Blue List, Al Khamsa. Strain: Kuhaylan] Bayfire's sire, Ali Zaar, has over 20 halter championships and is undefeated in Most Classic. Ali Zaar was just exported to Germany in 2004. Bayfire is his only son standing at public stud. His dam, MG Rimanah, is a big bodied bay, super athletic Sharaf daughter. Bayfire has been shown once as a 2 year old with a 2nd place. In 1999, as a 4 year old, he won "Most Classic" and was 2nd in his halter class. Bayfire has just started in training for dressage. He seems to be a real natural for it. He is very happy in a loose ring snaffle. He's very light. Bayfire's 2 yr old gelding, Ali Baystar, won the 2002 Gulf Coast Futurity at the Houston Christmas Show. His daughter, Mia Bint Bayfire just won the 2003 Gulf Coast Futurity and may even be heading to US Nationals in 2oo5 for the 3year old Futurity Mares in 2005! His 2004 stud fee is $1500/$1000. For further information on either of these stallions, Classic Bloodstock mares, their children and sales horses, please take a look at the Classic Bloodstock website and/or contact Martha at (281) 356-6548.


	THE PEOPLE

To Those Who Have Dared to Believe, Dream, Inspire, and Challenge

This page has proven to be both the most joy-filled and difficult of all the pages on the website. I know that there are more people who have inspired me and stood behind me than I could ever list, and every day I meet someone new who wants to give something of himself or herself. In some parts I am speaking in general and in others I name specific people, so I want to say, "thank you," up front to each person who has smiled, said an encouraging word, taught me, put up with me, given me a moment of your time, and so much more. Thanks for allowing me to share a part of this life's journey with you. There is no such thing as being a small part in someone's life. My family and friends are always a constant source of encouragement. The people I list on this page are those who have inspired me and taught me and believed in me. They are also people who have invested themselves into EquiJourneys. My "partner," the Equine Specialist who shares her time, her home and all her horses with me is Martha White of Classic Bloodstock. Details about Martha, her work, and her horses are on THE EAPAL TEAM page. Her generosity, expertise and genuine, one of a kind, selfless heart makes EquiJourneys an even better programthan it has been previously.

The Cornerstone of EquiJourneys is the grace and forgiveness of Jesus Christ. Above all, He has given each of us more than we can repay - and did it as a gift, asking nothing in return. The root of perfect love, unconditional forgiveness and complete healing is in Christ. While we will not force "religion" on any person, and respect the beliefs of each individual, we live our lives and continually build upon the foundation of what Jesus has given us all: GRACE.

During the turmoil of my junior and high school years, God put people in my life who helped keep me from total self-destruction and on the path He had planned for me in a future that truly would be beyond what I could imagine. One person, one family, took me into their lives and loved me without reason and believed in me in spite of all the chaos and rebellion I went through. They trusted me enough to let me be a part of the lives of their children, and they have never turned me away. Much of my faith, my ability to love, and my desire to change the livesof troubled youth came from this unconditional love and commitment they extended to this angry and confused girl who was trying to be so tough. Gary and Mona, and my "little brother" Taylor - thank you so much for being the best human representation of Jesus and His Grace I have ever encountered, and for always being there - even when I was shaking my fist at the sky and the world. Please know that mine is a life you have changed. To meet Gary Sills, visit Sienna Valley Community Church in Missouri City, TX (in southwest Houston).

An Overdue Thank You...

How could I ever thank every person who has been an inspiration to me and believed in me when I couodn't even imagine believing in myself? Many may not even realize the part they played and continue to play. I have met some of the most influential people of my life because of horses, and I could not possibly list them all. However, I would like to mention a few, not just as a thank you, but also as an encouragement so those who read this may know that this journey is not one made alone. Each person I from whom I have learned, listed here or not, played a significant part in changing the life of a girl - making her dreams become reality: There are the best friends and my family - those who may not have loved the horses in the same way, but loved me enough to be a part of it. Four specific friends come to mind specifically: Todd, Holli, Robyn and Kim - without each of you, I cannot imagine being whole. My family - the people who stood by me in the best and worst of times, loving me when I was fighting them. The people who have taught me all things horses and made sure I was not alone in my journey: Julie Rhodes, Craig Burns, Kasey Sutton, Shawn Crews, Jim and Carol Deegan, Jim and Judy Sirbasku, David Gardner and family, Paul, Darla and Jenny from Rock Creek, Dee Springer of Galleywinter Farms, and the many others with whom I worked and played during those invaluable years in Waco. (Juli, Paul, Shawn, and Leah - remember that what happens at the Event stays at the Event!) I am also grateful for the time and selfless hearts of Kim and Regina in Galveston, for David and Lois Harrison of Oakhollow Equestrian Park in Houston, and to Candace and Eduardo Callegari of Callegari Equestrian Technologies of Cyrpess, Texas. These are the people who have made my dreams possible today and have offered more than just business services when they reached out to me.

A very specific gratitude and unconditional love will always live within me for Craig and Juli Burns (now Juli Rhodes), and Juli's children Kasey and Jeremy. This family adopted me during my years as an undergrad at Baylor, and allowed me to be a part of their lives very much as part of their family. Juli was my supervisor at Rock Creek Arabians/Arabiains LTD, training mentor and friend. She and her husband, Craig, taught me how to care for horses from nutrition to veterinary care, and how to train both Rafiq and Shafak (a mare I purchased the summer after my sophomore year). Their daughter, 8 year old Kasey, became my riding partner and I consider her as a sister even now, 12 years later. As I look back, I believe that my relationship with Kasey was the primary inspiration for me to expand my work with adolescents to include children. Even as I speak with her now, she is a constant source of encouragement to me. Dee Springer also adopted me, as well as allowed me to train horses under saddle at her ranch, Galleywinter Farms, and sold me my second horse, Shafak. I faced some very difficult times of loss during the years I lived in Waco, and I don't know how I would have pulled through those times without the love and support of my family, and that of these friends.

Today I have such amazing people in my life - so strong and so dedicated to each other and to anyone who crosses their paths. My family continues to be at the top of my list, of course - with constant and consistant encouragement. The Rademacher family - consisting of a mother and father who share their amazing children with me, and the children who are truly young women with hearts of gold. My fellow horse-loving friends who also have a passion for sharing that love with others, encouraging me and each other as we move through life: Katherine, Rae, Kathi, Jonna, Candace, Eduardo, and my newest partner in this equine adventure, Martha (see THE EAPAL TEAM for more information on Martha, her role in EquiJourneys, and her horses).

Our Two-Legged Support Team

The best place to begin is to take a look at the people who make EquiJourneys possible today. The most vital component in any outreach and treatment program is the people who do the work, give their time, and invest their hearts. My teammate, Martha, helps me whether we get paid or not - giving her time, her home, her four-legged family, and her energy. As with most journeys in life there are always people who are also a vital part of any endeavor, and I feel it is important to point the people out who inspire, and believe so much in this work that they offer their time, their skills, and their hard-earned sweat to make this work possible. The love of two separate families has made so much more possible in my life and in the heart of EquiJourneys. It seems this would be the best place to start when taking a look at the people behind the program.

My Family

My Dad often tells me that his meaning in life - the reason he works and lives - is to make sure his children's dreams come true. His actions, and those of my Mom, confirm that this is the truth. I not only have emotional support, I have parents that BELIEVE in me so much that they constantly make sacrifices in lifestyle to better the lifestyle of their adult children. They do all this with a smile on their faces. In times of doubt and frustration, my family has pulled me through. They won't give up even if I do. When I think the glass is definitely half-empty, they find ways to show its half-full. I grew up with the security of unconditional love and forgiveness, and it is as strong today as it was when I was a child.

I have a special friendship with each of my parents, and my Dad is now very involved with my horses and the activities in which we compete and play. He was with me when I first found Rafiq and the amazing job at Arabians LTD, and he flew all over the place with me in the search for the *perfect* horse for a variety of roles. He was with me when I first saw Krystallynne and he went to Wisconsin with me to buy her. Whle there are so many horses available in the Houston area, and even more so in Texas, Dad and I just instinctively knew that she was the one. I have only owned 3 horses in my life - and with each one there was a feeling of certainty that each one was the right one at the right time - felt by both of my parents and by me. They are the most giving people on this planet! And no - I'm not at all biased.

"My Girls"

One day I went to the stables to visit my horse and I met a woman (Maria) who lived nearby. We sat, we talked, and embarked on what is most certainly going to be a life-long friendship that extends to her entire family. They invited me into their lives, and in the past 18months I find that I consider them a vital part of my life and that of my horses', most specifically the 3 eldest daughters - Veronica, Marina, & Georgia. It began as riding lessons for three daughters. Now they are the heart of EquiJourneys. Nothing can touch the look in the eyes of these girls as they stare at a horse. Without asking what is in it for them, Veronica and Marina voluntarily give their time to share the horses they love with people who need love. Georgia has the burden of being a bit too young to be allowed the same freedomas her two older sisters, but she is just as talented with just as a huge a heart as anyone could imagine. My world is far richer for having met this woman and her family.

More Two-Legged Support from Volunteers & A Few of Their Four-Legged Friends!

As you can see from the pictures on this site... we are abundantly blessed to be surrounded by people who will not hesitate to be generous with their time and their horses. I have not caught everybody on camera, and I cannot imagine creating a complete list, so I will update as I meet new people, get pictures, and as gifts come in of any sort!

To begin, I would like to thank Kathi for always being willing to give her time to anyone who has any need. I also want to thank a group of people at the Callegari barn who are consistantly encouraging and helping each other and other boarders whenever the need arises - we call it the "Wednesday Night" group and it consists of Kathi, Karen, Melissa, Cyndy, Becky, Candy, and their supportive families. Special thanks to Tony for sharing Kathi (his wife) with us all! Also, relatively new to the barn and instantly friends are Cristina and Bobby. They are always happy to hang out and lend a hand and provide constant positive energy and smiles.

Another selfless friend I wish to specifically thank is Rae of Tall C Arabians in Cypress, Texas. She has been supportive and has always offered her horses and home to me for my own healing and to reach out to others. She has always made sure I have a horse to ride, especially when Rafiq is having leg problems that prevent him from safely being ridden at the time. She continues to be willing to make my dreams a reality, offering her top endurance mare as one I can use to share with children to whom I teach riding lessons. Thanks to Rae, I do not live a "one horse" life.

Specifically, there are three people who not only share their time, but that of their horses as well. Rachel, seen in pictures throughout this website. She may be a teenager, but she has quickly developed a natural horsesense that many spend their lives trying to learn but can never grasp. Rachel, plus her parents and younger brother, are always willing to stop and share their horses and time with anyone who passes by. Peppy and her suprise filly, "Peppy's Lil Secret," have made a name for themselves as mascots. Lily truly was a surprise as she popped out just as Rachel and her family had arrived for the day. What we all thought was a grassbelly turned out to be a gorgeous filly. She is very much a miracle - Peppy took a couple of days to get milk, and was suddenly underweight as Lily actually WAS her belly. Under the attentive care of Rachel and her family, Peppy and Lily are filled out and top notch on the athletic scale. Both are naturally muscled and their coats shine from all the love they receive. No horse in the barn has a better diet or glows as much as this mare and her foal. I hope to add new pictures soon as Peppy and Lily continue their transformations into amazingly beautiful and athletic horses. Rachel is proof that age does not matter in training - she has just naturally imprinted Lily from the beginning to put up with the weird two-legged creatures, and she is always looking for more love and attention. Rachel is already a trainer, now with two horses that show her skills are at work!

The next person is Jonna... a friend who has always been supportive and encouraging, and has now added one of her horses to the EquiJourneys gang. "Buddy" is a Quarter Horse gelding that can easily be mistaken for a warmblood because of his size. He lives up to his name with a sweet disposition that just begs for a hug. He never gets cross with anyone and seems to have a special way with kids. Jonna has provided me with a horse I can use for a few kids who would otherwise miss out on the horse experience. Though I have not caught them on camera, expect to see them soon! Jonna has also offered her personal time as a partner in the equine assisted psychotherapy and equine assisted learning processes when using the team approach.

The third person is the newest person, and she instantly wanted to be a part of EquiJourneys and any effort to help out kids who may need a friend or something that can bring a smile to their faces. Morgan, who also is a teenager, has already risen in the ranks of her high school's FFA (Furture Farmers of America) club, owns a beautiful paint mare named Cheyenne. She is going to be showing Cheyenne in halter and under saddle, but is also willing to donate some of her own time and her own horse to a few more kids who may not have had a chance to experience horses. She took an immediate interest in the ideas behind any type of equine assisted growth program and will be an active part of our Equine Assisted Learning program, helping her peers and others have positive experiences with horses. Look for pictures of Morgan and Cheyenne as I catch them in action soon!

A Shout Out...

To anyone considering getting involved with horses, and the combination of working with horses and people in a growth, learning, and healing capacity... please find a way to join in! There is a great need that we are only barely able to meet, and the more people involved, the more people get reached! Please feel free to contact me, Shannon McCullough, by phone or email, and I will help however I can in finding an equine assisted psychotherapy and/or equine assisted learning program near you! There IS a network of practicioners, and, thanks to EAGALA and similar organizations, we have been able to come together and share ideas and resources. Each part a person plays is crucial to each program and each person who receives the gift of the horse experience. Whether you are willing to spend an hour a week, provide tack or horses or both, be a therapist who joins an equine specialist or vice versa, or even provide a location from which a program can operate - no gift is small. Thank you!


	THE HORSES

"Rafiq Al Amin"

The Ambassador, Mascot, and very first and favorite horse was also my first horse. While I was riding and training and teaching riding lessons even as a youth, I never owned a horse (See the JOURNEY and PEOPLE sections for details on my training background). After high school, I went to Baylor Univerity in Waco, Texas, and I began working for an amazing Egyptian Arabian breeding and training farm called Arabians, LTD. I was given a gelded weanling for my first month of work, and I named him "Rafiq Al Amin," which translates to "loyal friend and companion" in Egyptian Arabic. My first dream horse had been named Rafiqa, so it was a name with the perfect fit. Many people will say that a person's first horse should be one that is an adult and already trained. Rafiq proved to be an exception to that rule. I took him for walks as I would a dog, he was exposed to children and rock quarry trucks, baseball-sized hail and various wildlife. I was the first person to try anything with him and I was blessed by a wonderful family who "adopted" me and taught me horse ownership and training. Those were perhaps the most important years of my life. He took to riding with the quiet-yet-personality-plus demeanor that still pulls people of all ages to him.

Rafiq is now 13 years old, and he has been the source of my greatest adventures and experiences. He tolerated my naive ways and impatience as I have grown as a horsewoman, and continues teaching me, healing me, and reminding me to have faith even in the most dismal times. Rafiq has adopted and been adopted by Veronica, and she is well on her way to becoming an incredible trainer - in spite of, or maybe even due to being 12 years old.

Rafiq has sustained some injuries, including a broken leg at the age of eight, from fencing mishaps and mischief that have taken their toll on my sanity and in his joints (osteoarthritis). Yet his attitude remains positive and he continues to love working with and taking care of "his humans." He is the grey Arabian you will see in so many pictures on this website, though he was a very dark bay as a youngster. (Many Arabians are born a dark color and then turn grey over time.) Previous to breaking his leg, I was showing Rafiq in Western Pleasure at various levels and shows. He was usually first or second, and never entered a class without winning a ribbon in the top four. Currently, I am reconditioning him to possibly return to the show circuit - allowing the kids in EquiJourneys to have the experience of dealing with the ups and downs of training for and competing in horse shows.

"Krystallynne"

In early spring of 2003, I embarked on a six month intense research and shopping project, seeking a horse that had the stuff to succeed in the show ring and to be a high quality (future) broodmare, plus had the vital disposition and athletic ability required of a horse destined to a lifetime of working with children and adolescents. She would have to be both the foundation mare of my breeding program and the horse that could share the weight of the therapy program with Rafiq. I found the full package and more in a two year old filly named Krystallynne WLF. I was not looking specifically for a horse with conformation that could take her to the U.S. Nationals in halter competition, but Krystallynne has proved to be all these things. Despite coming from Wisconsin to Texas in the summer temperatures, she settled right in and immediately adopted Marina. Krys showed patience and a quiet nature when needed, yet embodied all that we imagine of a firey Arabian with a floating trot and tail held high.

Tragedy struck on September 7, 2004, when Krystallynne suffered an irrepairable leg injury and had to be euthanized. I am grateful for every moment I was given with her - she had a heart of pure gold, a spirit filled only with joy, and such grace and an ability to love that had no end. She brought people into my life I now hold dear. She changed me for the better, she taught me that sometimes you have to believe in what seems impossible before you can see that it is possible.

With my deepest gratitude... In losing Kyrstallynne, I have found a family - I have been surrounded by extraordinary people - generously offering assistance and compassion, horses and far beyond - a place I can call home. Special thanks to Bryan Jeffries, Melinda, Gary Fernandez, Classic Bloodstock, Martha White, Callegari Egyptian Arabians, Arabians LTD, Shawn Crews, Jim and Judy Sirbasku, Penny Gute, West Lawn Arabians, Michael Byatt, David and Marian Gardner, Kehilan Arabians, Deshazer Arabians, and to the many others who have reached out to me and considered me a friend before we have even met.

I must thank the friends and family who have guided me through these difficult days: Much thanks to my family - my mom, my dad, my brother, my sister-n-law, my grandparents, and so many more; to my friends - Martha White, Jonna Johnson, Kathi Ruppe, Candace and Eduardo Callegari, Kasey Sutton, Katherine Chmielewski, Michelle McCarry, Veronica Rademacher, Marina rademacher, Catie Nikula, Jessica Nikula, and Rae Callaway.

"LF Majik Star"

Martha and the Horses of Classic Bloodstock

Martha White, owner of Classic Bloodstock, is the "Equine Specialist" of my dreams. If I were to describe my ideal personality in a partner, Martha would fit it to the letter. The same is true of the horses she owns, breeds, and shows. They are all top quality Egyptian Arabians that would be untouchable in the hands of many. Martha, however, has the heart to share and help bring healing to hurting people. For full details on Martha, as well as many more pictures and descriptions of her horses, please visit THE EAPAL TEAMlink.

Classic Bloodstock isa family-owned Egyptian Arabian breeding venture belonging to Martha White, and it is a primary location out of which EquiJourneys operates. It is located in the Woodlands area of Northern Houston with easy access from major freeways. Martha has chosen to become the "Equine Specialist" member of the therapy teamand has taken us in, literally in her back yard. She owns over 20 horses, including 5 colts born this year, providing the resource most needed in this program. To read more about Martha, and see more pictures of her horse, visit THE EAPAL TEAM page on this website.

Balancing the Needs, Expenses and Resources

The most needed resource for EquiJourneys is also the most expensive: Horses. They are not a single financial investment, but one that requires monthly bills for food, shelter, water, medical maintenance, medical emergency, farrier, land, training, and so on. Therein lies the difficult balance for an Equine Assisted Psychotherapy program in this stage. Without horses, there is no program - yet with horses, the program is never going to come close to matching the cost. This is where some very important people enter the picture...

Currently, EquiJourneys has the blessing of having TWO locations fromwhich to provide services. One is explained above - Classic Bloodstoock. The other one is located at a boarding stable called Callegari Equestrian Technologies in Cypress, Texas. The owners of this boarding stable, Eduardo and Candace Callegari, are the first to do whatever they can to make sure that people with horses have a positive place to keep and enjoy their four-legged companions. They are also incredibly generous in allowing people who need a horse to borrow or lease one of their top quality mares and geldings. While boarding horses is far more expensive than keeping them on land of your own, the environment of a place such as this is full of opportunities to meet people and become involved with a variety of horses - all breeds, all ages. It is a rare instance that you will ever find a horse owner who is not willing to share time and information with another person. Most of us truly enjoy any chance to share this amazing creature (whom we love like we would any family member!) that has brought majic into our lives. The facilities are set up with safety as a priority, and include a covered arena, an open arena, a round pen, a jumping course, and endless trails. The barns are top of the line and maintained to a degree of quality I never experienced until I moved into this stable nearly 4 years ago. In order for me to provide something even close to this experience, I would have to purchase and develop land, build on and fence off that land, and find time and energy to maintain it. For now, this is a good environment for EquiJourneys, operating in an environment where the emphasis is on solutions over problems and teaches us all how to communicate, compromise and work out our differences.

The best part of this equation is the people factor. I can only afford two horses, but there are nearly 100 more possible contacts while boarding at this facility. The crucial ingredient to building EquiJourneys exists within the people around us who may choose to share their horse or a part of themselves with the participants in the program. This generosity provides the most-needed resource. There are too many names to mention when counting the people who sacrifice some of their time and offer the use of their horses to any extent. Below I have pictures of a mere few of the many horses and people who have been part of this program in some significant way. Remember: any moment of time that we spend on someone other than ourselves is a *significant* gift that has meaning far deeper than the person giving it will ever know.

Looking Toward the Future

As EquiJourneys grows, we hope to lease or purchase a home base from which to operate, so we can increase the number of therapy horses to insure that each horse has a smaller "caseload." We rely heavily on the generosity of others who share their time, their space, and their horses to bring this program the resources it needs. Thank you to all who have contributed thus far in any way - no gift goes unappreciated!

Our belief is that God provides what we need and when we will need it. We will not allow any horse to become over-burdened in workload or burnt out on helping others due to being used too much or in a manner that causes discomfort. I train each horse individually to become a safe horse both on the ground and in the saddle, and all riders must wear helmets. We are a "safety first" program with the safety and well-being of each human and each horse being the most important factor.


	MY JOURNEY

The Little Girl Who Loved Horses...

EquiJourneys began in the one place many horse lovers and their family members will no doubt understand... in the heart of a little girl who loved horses. She loved the idea of horses from the time she could ride upon her Daddy's back until he wore holes into the knees of every pair of jeans he owned. Her parents, though not "animal people" themselves, willingly paid for the weekly riding lessons, attended the play shows, and even allowed her to move into higher-level shows that required additional expenses. Even as a child, she wrote poems about her favorite horse. His name was Rafiqa - a three year old bay Arabian gelding with one blind eye. Of course she saw only an aura of beauty and grace - to her this horse was *magic.* In spite of the behavior problems the horse's owner had faced (rearing, kicking and other forms of aggression), this little girl could not see fault in this horse. She and a friend took it upon themselves to "train" this horse in secret. She didn't believe the horse could possibly want to hurt her. After all, this horse was the seed of all her dreams. She had total faith in him and the horse must have known this because he responded to her. She worked with him every Saturday for a mere couple of months, and this horse let this little girl ride himbareback with only a halter.

And There It Remains...

It still thrives in the same heart of that same girl, some twenty plus years later - and now she gets to see it in the eyes and expressions of the children and teens with whom she works each day. And yes, it is still *magic.* Her friends moved on to other things, boys and such - but she remained ever so in love with horses. This little girl, as you most likely know by now, is me. My name is Shannon and this program is the path that defines my heart.

I didn't get to own that first dream horse, "Rafiqa," and nor many horses I have loved since then. Yet, I cannot open up the notebook in which I wrote the goofy and sappy poems and stories without tears. The little girl remains in love with that *magic* she found with that special horse. I did not get my own horse until my sophomore year in college. One day I realized I could not be happy apart from being with horses, so my Dad and I drove out to a large Arabian ranch about which I had heard, but never seen.. The first drive through the gates and past the pastures filled with breathtaking Arabians took my breath away. Rock Creek Arabians, home of Arabians, LTD, is the place my dreams came true. Within an hour of arrival, I had a job and a horse. The horse was a recently weaned gelding who was completely untrained and evasive of humans not bearing food. I was given a choice between two of these weanlings, and this one never took his eyes off of me. The connection was sealed. He had not yet been named, so I used an Egyptian dictionary to find the best name. I named him "Rafiq Al Amin," which means "loyal companion" in Egyptian Arabic and held the personal meaning for me from that first love - the half-blind Arab from my childhood. Rafiq is now 13 years old. And yes - he truly IS the magical dreamhorse of my heart - and now in the hearts of more than a few others.

Horses have always been a part of my life since those first riding lessons. Throughout junior high and high school, I took in all I could from any riding instructor and any source of horses. I learned to assist others with their horses and any problematic behaviors. Arabians remained my favorite, most cherished breed, but I would work with any equine with "a leg at each corner." I have had the opportunities to work with miniatures, pony breeds, thoroughbreds, draft crosses, and many in-between. My freshman year in college I worked with a talented riding instructor teaching hunter-jumper students; and during the summer after my freshman year in college I lived in Maine and worked as a riding instructor, practicing what we now identify as Equine Assisted Learning (see pictures above). Upon being hired by Arabians LTD, I started down a path that lead me to Equine Assisted Psychotherapy as my ultimiate goal. My work at Arabians LTD exposed me to a broad spectrum of horsecare, training, breeding, mare and foal care, stallion-handling, and conditioning. When I graduated from college, I moved to Galveston Island to work at the high school as a counselor for a program targeting students with a high-risk of dropping out. I met a woman named Regina who acted as a mentor in addition to boarding Rafiq, and has a ranch named Sunshine Stables and Riding Academy in southeast Texas that very much fits the definition of Equine Assisted Learning. I also met a very cherished friend, Kim, whom I will always see as family who taught me things beyond even that which I learned from my other experiences. Her family took me under their wing, adding me to their family without asking anything in return. Some of my wildest, most amazing adventures in my life have occurred with Kim. It will certainly be very difficult to imagine anyone ever being so intregal a part of my life. A couple of years later, I moved to attend the University of Houston for my Master's Degree in Social Work, and remained in Houston to work at IntraCare Hospital where I was first able to finally begin the "psychotherapy" component in my work with horses and youth. I continue to meet and learn fromsome very gracious and loving people, many of whom I have listed below. I have successfully competed at "open" and "class A" Arabian shows in Western Pleasure, an exciting addition to my experiences in both "hunter-pleasure" and "saddleseat" techniques, as well as training and showing in halter divisions.

The Other Side...

There was more than a passion for horses in that little girl. She wanted to share the wonder of horses - especially Arabians - with people.I cannot remember a time when I was not naturally inclined to try to help my friends, peers, and even strangers with any obstacle they faced. Even with problems of my own, I was much better helping others than myself. As I began to think toward the future I could not imagine being anything outside of some sort of therapist. I didn't want to enter a field where the focus was on sickness and medications, and I did not want to enter a broad sociological field in which I would be separated from working directly with people. I chose Social Work and I have never regretted that decision. It fit who I was and what I believed about people, and it still does. I am able to look at a person and that person's world and help that person find a path through that world. I am able to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves. I believed then as I do now, that there is empowerment and abundant healing when people and horses are brought together.

And The Journey Begins...

Its hard to say exactly when an idea becomes a mission. There is no true birthdate for EquiJourneys, as it was always alive and active in some form even when I was in junior high. I knew at an early age that God must have had some design in mind, even though as a rebellious teen I didn't want to pay attention to the "grown up" parts of life. I was raised by wonderful Christian parents who love me even with my issues and behavior problems - an unconditional love that amazes me even today! I was also given the kindness and friendship of some very significant people at critical times to be supportive and care enough to not give up on me. So, with unconditional love at home, and with a few specific people who were there to help me through those dark times during which I would not confide in my parents, I survived my own undoings. The often-used phrase, "there but for the Grace of God goes me," truly fits. My journey began as an angry, troubled, and rebellious youth who was spared because of an incredible family, the strong support of a few people who invested themselves in me and believed in me even at my worst moments. A song by Margaret Becker may say it best: "I'll never be an Angel, but here I am again praying for wings to fly."

In an informal sense, the idea of using horses to help people cope was an active part of my life from the moment I first shared a horse with a friend. When I bought Rafiq, I found such pleasure in the smiles of the kids who lived in the nearby homes. It was so rewarding to share what I loved with another person. I gave riding lessons, trained horses to be ridden and to overcome dangerous habits, and even delivered babies and caredfor them in the early times of their lives. It wasn't until I completed my Master's Degree in Social Work and started working for a local psychiatric hospital that I began the development of a formal program of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. I was a primary therapist working on the children and adolescent acute impatient units at IntraCare Hospital in Houston, Texas, and I presented the idea of bringing Rafiq to the hospital for a group therapy with each unit as an exercise in experiential group therapy. My supervisor and I discussed it and went to the Administrator and Owner of the Hospital to see if it was a consideration. Dr. Timothy Sharma and Dr. Alice Hinicker displayed such open minds to the idea, and allowed an expense account to cover the purchase of helmets and the addition of a parental permission form to the preliminary papers signed when admitting a minor to the hospital. They were willing to take a chance on me and on trying something new to acute psychiatric care, and I was allowed to bring Rafiq to work and use him as a therapy tool for the children and adolescent inpatients. This is when the dreamfirst became a reality. (Thank you, Ed Lyles and Dr. Sharma - for believing in this work before it began!!!)

What's in a Name?

I embrace life as a Journey... a life-long haul with moutnain tops and dark valleys, refreshing springs and shadows of our fears, with waterfalls to chase and mundane uneventful places in-between. I came across a philosophical phrase which I immediately adopted: "The Journey Is The Destination." Life - the process of living - is the point. Each experience is the meaning and the how and why of it all. As Ferris Bueller so eloquently put it, " Life moves fast, if you don't stop and look around once in a while, you might miss it." So often I find myself intently focused on a specific time period or achievement: finishing a semester, graduating from college, finishing my required hours for clinical licensure, looking forward to whatever may be next on my life list of stepping stones. Sometimes I become so focused on that goal that I miss out on the experience of actually getting there - the imbalance of missing the forest for the trees or missing the beauty of a single tree in the midst of seeing only the forest. This is where the "Journey" concept best describes the cognitive vision I have embraced. We must train ourselves to see with better eyes - to choose a different way of thinking in all areas of living. The whole point of life is living it one experience to the next, and the willingness to stop and take in the view from a look-out and still noticing the deer in the field that runs along the path. Nothing is insignificant.

The valleys we see can be so very dismal - in my life journey I have faced some very dark times. Obstacles I have faced have forced me to stop and take inventory of what I have for which to be grateful, and re-evaluate how I choose to move forward. In my late twenties I faced some painful and debilitating health problems that required multiple surgeries. I was getting into the swing of using EAP at IntraCare Hospital and I was working more than 60 hours a week, coming home and schooling Rafiq for the next horse show. My body just shut down quickly due illness and I had to step off of my planned career path and deal with the frustration of hospitals and illness and what seemed to be the ending before I felt I had been able to even truly begin. I realized I was focusing on specific milestones in my career and not even absorbing life along the way. My health forced me to slow down, take time to look around, and decide how I would embrace life each day. I had to put everything on hold for about four years. What you are seeing now on this website is the new beginning as my health has finally taken a turn for the better for the past year. I had to stumble pretty hard to realize what I was missing.

The name "EquiJourneys" is born of the mindset that all aspects of life are experiences and the reason for life itself. The gift of horses is time to experience something monumental in a moment with an amazing creature. In that moment, you must focus on the task at hand and on the process of getting from point A to point B. As we work through it our brains will finally *CLICK* on what the horse is communicating and the point of the whole process. We do take this processing approach into other aspects of our lives and we do change the way we think. There have been significant bumps along this road, don't doubt that - but the outcome thus far into this journey makes all those bumps seem so very small. I have learned that it is true that prayer can move mountains. Believe it, God has done that - plus so much more.

EquiJourneys Today...

EquiJourneys is in its early stages of development, having been put on hold while I was unable to work. Currently we are operating with one horse (Rafiq) while the second horse prepares for the U.S. National's Show. In October, I will start her under saddle, but it will take some time to train her for consistancy and safety when around children and adolescents. We rely entirely on the generosity of others - volunteering time, use of their horse(s), a place from which to work, tack, etc. Its humbling to start off with no cash, one gimpy horse, and an idea. Its incredible when you see people banding together to share resources and believe in a program enough to give freely. I see people all around me giving without a thought toward their own gain, and I have the privelege to know a few young girls who also dream of horses and see only what can be. Their names are Veronica and Marina, and their younger sister, Georgia (for a better understandingof the role these girls play, see THE EAPAL TEAM and THE PEOPLE pages). It started out as riding lessons and now they are family. They are proof beyond any doubt that this horse-human connection is a very powerful tool in building self-esteem and in teaching skills needed in all areas of our lives. I do not own a ranch, and I own two horses - due entirely to my generous and supportive parents who will sacrifice the clothes off of their backs to see the dreams of their kids come true. I hope it will always be that way. Giving is therapeutic, too. Equine Assisted Psychotherapy is a well-established mode of therapy now, and I am both a therapist and a horsewoman in one package. The programs EquiJourneys can offer depends entirely on the resources available at that particular time, and its growth relies on community resources, as well. One major step is this website. I plan to document the journey of EquiJourneys each step of the way.

Living a life less travelled by,

Shannon McCullough

ShannonMcCullough, LMSW, USEF, AHA


	Contact Information A Social Worker My name is Shannon McCullough, and I am the Administrator of EquiJourneys. I am a Texas-licensed Master's-level Social Worker (LMSW) and a professional horse trainer. For 12 years I have specialized in working with troubled teens, children and families dealing with issues of abuse, self-destructive behaviors, teen pregnancy, eating disorders, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, and with those in recovery from drug and alcohol abuse and addiction. My experience as a therapist has been in schools, psychiatric hospitals, and community-based counseling programs. A Horse Trainer I have also pursued extensive and varied experience in horse training, breeding and showing for over 20 years. I train horses from beginning ground-level work through full training under saddle, and I have been teaching riding lessons intermittently since 1990. While I have experience in working with a wide variety of breeds, most of my work has been with Arabian horses. Any horse that is used in the EquiJourneys Program must undergo training by me or by someone supervised by me. My training approach has "natural horsemanship" as its basis, and no horse used by this Program is overworked or being abused or neglected in any way. For the majority of EquiJourneys Programs, I work out of Callegari Equestrian Technologies in Cypress, Texas. I am affiliated with the United States Equestrian Federation and the Arabian Horse Association. For more details on my experience, credentials, and background, please read My Journey page. Please feel free contact me for further information and to check for availability of EquiJourneys Programs currently active, as not all Programs are available at all times due to demand, finances, scheduling and availability of much-needed resources. EquiJourneys is available in and around the Houston-Southeast Texas area, primarily in Northwest Houston. Similar programs do exist across the U.S., and referrals may be available for a similar program in your area. Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy programs are quickly catching attention in the professional world due to the great success these programs are showing for people of all ages. You may wish to check the LINKS page for further information and possible programs in areas outside of Houston. Please feel free to call and we will assist you in finding a program in your area. EMAIL: skgserenity@aol.com PHONE: (713)516-5231 *For more information on the people behind the program, visit our PEOPLE page.

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