Equine Assisted Counseling (EAC) & Psychotherapy
PATH Intl. Equine Specialists in Mental Health and Learning and credentialed mental health professionals partner with carefully selected horses to address the client’s counseling goals. This experiential approach allows professionals to teach a wide range of life skills and coping techniques to those struggling with mental health issues. These interactive processes provide participants with insight for observation and growth while promoting healthy communication, social skills, patience, and confidence.
As prey animals, horses are highly perceptive to subtle changes within their environment. This sensitivity dictates how they will respond to an individual’s changing emotional state. If a client arrives feeling anxious, the horse will respond accordingly. As the client learns to reduce their anxiety, the horse’s behavior will mirror that response. The horse acts as a large biofeedback machine, providing the client and mental health professional with information and skill building opportunities.
Martha Dubensky – Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Life Coach, Addiction Counselor, PATH Intl. Advanced Riding Instructor, Mentor, Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning (ESMHL)
Martha Dubensky has loved and owned horses for most of her life. In 1983, she was introduced to horses providing therapy for people with disabilities at “Monique Stable” in Honesdale, Pennsylvania. Thirsty for more knowledge on this therapy, she volunteered Winslow for several years and in 1994 became a certified PATH International therapeutic riding instructor. In 1995, she founded the GAIT Therapeutic Riding Center and is now on their Board of Directors.
Martha is a Faculty Lead for PATH Intl. conducting Equine Specialists in Mental Health & Learning workshops. Martha graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a Bachelor of Science degree and Master of Science degree from Cornell University as well as a Master of Psychology from Capella University.
Lilly Spencer – LCSW, Certified Animal Assisted Therapy Professional (CAATP), Certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT)
Lilly is a licensed clinical social worker and is a Certified Animal Assisted Therapy Professional through the Animal Behavioral Institue. Lilly grew up riding horses and volunteering at Winslow. She is passionate about combining her love for horses and her career. Lilly has extensive experience in various settings such as inpatient mental health, adolescent Residential Treatment Communities and outpatient private practice. She is versed in CBT and DBT and has additional certifications in TF-CBT and Triple P Family Therapy.
Lilly believes that life is full of challenges and obstacles. Whether you experienced and event that altered your perspective or just want to feel better about life with less anxiety, it is her goal to provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment in which to explore options toward living a happier more fulfilling life.