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From the Director's Stall

As a service organization, G.A.I.T. staff and professionals strive to add new and/or creative programs to meet the needs of people with special needs of all ages and abilities. This summer we developed a program for teens at risk for drug and alcohol abuse by partnering with Newton Memorial Hospital, in Newton, New Jersey. Mary Stanley, a professional mental health therapist for teen drug and alcohol abuse at the Milford Health and Wellness Center, and Martha Dubensky, an Equine Professional trained in therapeutic riding, Hippotherapy and Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) teamed up to provide Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP).

Each week a different activity involving un-tethered horses roaming freely in the in-door arena was designed by “Miss Martha” and approved by Mary Stanley to reflect personal emotions and behaviors from the participants. Some activities were designed for each teen to work independently with one or more horses. Other activities were designed for the teens to work as a team. The results of these activities were participants who demonstrated more compassion, patience, and confidence after the activities were completed. People who have these traits or who can develop these traits are always better equipped to live a more healthy, socially accepted lifestyle.

Any program we can begin that help even just one individual to cope with everyday stresses, disappointments and temptations, is a worthwhile endeavor indeed. Continuing a program such as Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP), has been critical for one teenager and pleasantly appealing to others.

You have helped make this program a reality. Thank you!

Contributed by Mrs. Martha Dubensky, Executive Director and Founder of G.A.I.T.

In This Autumn Issue!

Welcome Page

From the Director's Stall

Glimpses of the 2009 Horse-A-Fair

Special Events

Thanks to our Members and Sponsors

Volunteers' Corner