Why Horses?
EquiPresence™ In the Presence of Horses People Change
Horses
embody the characteristics of mindfulness; being centered in the here
and now, completely aware of their surroundings on an intuitive level.
To interact successfully with the horse, humans must also be centered
and focused in the present, aware of both self and other in a very
conscious way. In an EquiPresence™ session, the horses play
an active role in the therapeutic process by continually offering
honest and accurate feedback on body language and non-verbal messages,
insisting that participants communicate their needs clearly and consistently.
Working with these forgiving and compassionate animals provides natural
opportunities for personal growth, relationship enhancement and relief
from a multitude of mental health issues. These may include, but are
not limited to, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma,
substance abuse, eating disorders, and various childhood difficulties
such as conduct problems, ADHD and other behavioral issues.
Article about Kyle Duquette's EquiPresence™
MEET SOME OF OUR HORSES
Kona
The youngest of our therapists, Kona loves working with couples, always
aware of the unstated, ongoing non-verbal messages between intimate
partners. Kona is a retired racehorse who has found his true calling
as couple’s counselor.
Star
The most compassionate of our clinicians, Star is kind, loving and
always available to comfort those in need. She is also fun-loving
and likes to play. Star is a retired show horse who would much rather
“show her stuff’ to those who don’t judge her.
Oakie
Child therapist and a kid at heart himself, Oakie is acutely aware
of the feelings of those around him and is especially compassionate
towards children. Oakie is a retired state champion children’s show
horse who is also having a lot more fun sharing his wisdom without
a rider on his back.
Malia
Also known as the “Champ”, Malia is an expert in self care and healthy
boundaries and readily shares her wisdom about life and motherhood
(having been a parent herself) with anyone who will listen. Malia
is a retired champion barrel racer, weary of life in the “fast lane”,
and thoroughly enjoys her “new career” as head therapist at EquiPresence™.
All our horses are retired or semi-retired performance horses who would otherwise be living a life on medication or abandonment or neglect due to their waning productivity in the show or rodeo arena. Most of them suffer from permanent damage to ligaments, joints and hooves due to the level of stress in their former lives. We believe these animals deserve another chance at the good life for all the joy they’ve brought to the people who’ve crossed their paths. We honor the gift of love and compassion given to us by all animals by supporting the two charities listed below.
Maui Pet Therapy Program/Haku Baldwin Center