Therapeutic Experiences LLC of Durango needs the help of local veterans.
Therapeutic Experiences founders Ron and Katie Tyner are offering a free Equine Assisted Learning pilot program in which veterans can participate and assist in improving the program, so it will better serve military heroes in the future.
Equine-assisted modalities have been recognized to be effective in treating veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury (TBI), anxiety and chronic mental illnesses. It couples people with horses in working on the fundamental bonds we have within our “herds.”
An estimated 34,000 military people are slated to return home in 2014. Suicide rates, PTSD, TBI and other disabling conditions occur frequently among military and veteran personnel, and strategies used to address these issues may fall short of fully resolving the aftermath of trauma.
That’s where the Equine Assisted Learning pilot program comes in.
Equine-assisted modalities can enhance professional, familial and personal development, and can assist participants in discovering and fulfilling physical, emotional, mental and spiritual needs.
The Tyners are passionate about helping veterans and have a lifetime of experience with horses. They are dedicated to empowerment and emotional growth, which is why they started Therapeutic Experiences.
Since 2006, the Tyners have worked with people, groups and communities including the Southern Ute Community Action Program, Peaceful Spirit ARC (substance abuse recovery center), Southern Ute Vocational Rehabilitation, Upward Bound, Durango School District 9-R and La Plata Youth Services.
If you are interested or know someone who could benefit from this program, contact Therapeutic Experiences at 749-0607 or rtyner@q.com. Spaces are limited. The program will be held Saturdays beginning soon.
Richard Schleeter is the veterans service officer for the La Plata County Veterans Service Office. He can be reached at 759-0117 or schleeterrs@co.laplata.co.us.
For more information
The La Plata County Veterans Service Office provides information and assistance to veterans and their families. For more information, visit the county website at www.co.laplata.co.us and type “veterans services” in the search window. The Veterans Service Office and the Durango VA Clinic are at 1970 East Third Ave. The office phone number is 759-0117. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays except holidays. Appointments are encouraged. To schedule an appointment, call 382-6150. For clinic appointments, call 247-2214.
Help for vets
The Veterans Crisis Line offers free, confidential support to veterans, family and friends. Call (800) 273-8255 and press 1. You also can text professional responders at 838255 or chat online at www.VeteransCrisisLine.net.
