Psychotherapy Services

Virtual or Office-Based Psychotherapy Sessions

Horse Guided Sessions

No two people are alike. Therefore, there is no such thing as a one size fits all solution. At Ara Equus who you are is respected in the here and now.  We believe that you are not your diagnosis, your past or even your self-concept. Who you are is the sum of the intersectionalities of your biology, culture, sociological, and psychological makeup. Your history says so much about how you function in the world, yet there is so much more to embrace as you seek novel ways to foster resilience.

Counselling (with or without the horses) is guided by a person-centred approach, free of judgment, acknowledging the unique path of each individual, rooted in positive regard. As we hold space for you, your personal self-concept can safely emerge where refection and transformation is nurtured. 

 

Your eyes tell me all I need to know about you. I can see your pain, but I won't look away. I will validate your struggle stand by you as you navigate the obstacles that lie in the way of embracing your best life. I'm very passionate about human growth and healing. I will listen with sincerity, be straightforward and always be kind.

Why we get stuck

Words mean nothing if they are not felt and integrated in our being. In fact they will deepen wounds of insecurity, and avoidance, leading to maladaptive patterns. So what happens when we are seen and heard? What happens when the messages sound so enticing and hopeful? Do we push away and retreat into the safety of our solitude (insecure attachment)? Or do we risk it all and allow another to hold our heart and the longing of our soul in their hands, even if just for a moment? How do we resist the lure of unbridled independence (avoidant attachment)? Let's journey together to rekindle the hope, celebrate the beauty of what it means to be human, feel alive, be seen and trust. Yes, even when the past was riddled with undeniable pain.

The Brain

The answers are often found in the neurobiology of our brains. The amygdala and the prefrontal cortex work to preserve us as a species. We become trapped in a web of patterened thoughts which become stored in the unconscious. Often we are unaware of the root cause of our reactions. Learn to harness the gifts of emotional messages and find new ways to navigate life's challenges. 

Trauma Focused

Trauma is embedded in every tissue and every cell of your being. If you feel like people don't understand your trauma responses, you would be right. Most don't. That includes the majority of those in the healthcare field. Trauma requires more than congnitive-based interventions because trauma is a neurobiological response with memories stored in the brain and in the body. We approach complex and deep seeded trauma using an eclectic mix of somatic, experiential, existential, equine and other interventions depending on your needs.

Areas of Focus

Unburden yourself and encounter the many possibilities ahead. Areas of focus include:

  • Grief due to
    • death of a loved one
    • divorce / relationship ending
    • job loss
    • loss of something meaningful to you
  • Trauma, crisis, or chronic stress
  • PTSD / CPTSD / Vicarious Trauma
    • military
    • first responders
    • medical personnel
  • Childhood trauma
  • Intimate partner violence
  • Healing circle
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Personal growth and self-care bootcamp
  • Youth
    • confidence building
    • cooperation
    • anti-bullying program
    • navigating change
    • at-risk youth 

Customized groups of 2 to 20 people can be accommodated.

At all stages of life
Anxiety Depression Grief
Addiction Life Transitions Relationship Difficulties
Eating Disorders Self-Injury Self-esteem
Attachment Issues Trauma Informed Care Self-care
Youth well-being Bullying LGBTQ+
Indigenous wise practices Culturally Based healing Shadow work
Inner child healing

Ready to Embrace your Authentic Self?

Take the first step towards emotional well-being and personal growth.

Book your free 15 minute consult to explore your options.

“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known loss and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.”

Elizabeth Kubler-Ross