4/27/25

Wisdom from the Herd: Lessons for Mental Health and Resilience

Presented by Dr. Hallie Sheade, PhD, LPC-S, RPT

Embark on a transformative journey with Dr. Hallie Sheade, a licensed professional counselor specializing in equine-assisted counseling, as she reveals the profound wisdom horses and donkeys offer for mental health, relationships, and personal growth. In this captivating presentation, Dr. Sheade shares her lifelong connection with equines, starting from her childhood bond with a spirited horse named Cowman, to her groundbreaking work at Steps with Horses, a nonprofit dedicated to equine-assisted mental health services.

Discover how the instincts of these sentient animals can guide us toward emotional congruence, helping us align our inner feelings with our outward expressions for authentic, trusting relationships. Learn the art of mindfulness through the equine lens, as horses model living fully in the present moment while staying attuned to their surroundings. Explore how herd dynamics teach healthy boundaries and mutual respect, offering practical tools to reduce stress and foster resilience.

Through heartfelt stories, such as a wild Mustang named Echo detecting emotional incongruence and a protective donkey shielding vulnerable clients, Dr. Sheade illustrates how equines respond to human emotions with uncanny sensitivity. This presentation blends reflective exercises, real-world applications, and insights from her work with veterans, trauma survivors, and children, making it accessible to anyone curious about mental health or equine-assisted services.

Whether you're seeking fresh perspectives on emotional well-being or inspiration from the natural world, this engaging session will leave you with actionable strategies to enhance self-awareness, build stronger connections, and embrace resilience. Join us to uncover the timeless lessons of the herd and transform the way you navigate life’s challenges.

Connect with Steps with Horses: Visit https://www.stepswithhorses.org to learn more about equine-assisted counseling and community support opportunities.

#MentalHealth #EquineTherapy #Mindfulness #Resilience #Horses #EmotionalWellness

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Living a Life That's Sacred presented by Sara Southerland