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Words of Appreciation

Celebrating Our Clients and Support Network

Words of a client....

I was deeply moved by the experience but the further I move away from that moment in time, the more I can see how a subtle shift can change one’s course. It changed my trajectory. It affected my leadership (the gentle discussion around our fears as fledgling leaders), my self compassion (the experience of being received by your team with no judgement when I came heavy with grief), my patience for others and myself (the team building exercises in the arena that challenged me to use unfamiliar skills), my perception of my weakness, flaws and wounds (the intimate, unexpected and life-changing encounter with a beautiful horse) and ultimately the deep embrace of my role as a light-reflecting human (my purpose each day). This is my life journey and I’m here, thriving, because all along the way, people like you have cared enough to offer the opportunity and support for me to safely change my trajectory, or realign, or make subtle shifts. One of the things we talk about in my work (Federal Corrections) is that when we make a difference in an inmates life and they change their course, we’ll never know. So we have to find motivation outside of recognition or validation - which we may never receive. I would be remiss if I did not express my gratitude for your impact in my life. You are doing incredible things, most of which is “invisible” work. Soul work, heart work, relationship work. ~ Jen

Words of a horse owner...

I have been around horses my entire life and as a rider, I spent much of that time riding and training for performance. Working with Lynn has changed the way that I see horses. She has shown me that partnering with horses as teachers offers lessons and rewards far beyond anything I've experienced before. I am deeply humbled by all I’ve learned and grateful for this work—for both myself and my horse. I have owned and worked with my current horse for nearly 20 years. I moved her to River Haven Farm several years ago and the farm has become an extraordinary home for her. The love and care she receives here have changed her for the better and her training under Lynn enabled her to play an important role in the therapy and work offered by River Haven. This incredible opportunity and place would not be possible without Lynn’s commitment to this work and to all who enter her barn, horse and human! ~ Laurie

Words of a counselling client...

My daughter began weekly sessions at the beginning of her school year to aid her in coping with her anxiety transitioning to middle school. She resisted “therapy” but after one visit with the horses, she was hooked. No matter what her mood or emotional state is prior to her sessions at River Haven, she always leaves in a state of calm and peace that no other support or activity has provided. The relationships she has developed with each horse (with Lynn and Tina’s support), have continued to support her confidence, emotional growth and wellbeing. It is amazing to watch how the horses interact with her depending on her mood, and each is able to “read her” and “calm her” in their own special way. This enables Tina to work with her to give her strategies to manage her anxieties at school in a safe place. I cannot over emphasize how life changing River Haven has been for my daughter. I would highly recommend River Haven to any family that could use any sort of extra support for emotional regulation and wellbeing. ~ Shannon

The Story of a Gift . . .

Championing the mental health of first responders . . .

I recently received a deeply moving gift from a client—a signed copy of "Portraits of an Emergency" by Daniel Sundahl, a stunning compilation of art exploring the themes of trauma, resilience, and healing which serves as a powerful testament to the emotional resilience of first responders. This gift was accompanied by a note that spoke to the profound realities first responders face, and that "despite the nature of some of the images, while potentially upsetting, they are a reality that many of us cannot afford to shy away from if we want to help." The client also shared something that left me both humbled and inspired: "Words cannot express how much I have appreciated the care and sensitivity you and your team have shown our folks . . . meeting us where we are has been invaluable. I believe that you have shown them that they matter, that people care about how they feel which is what all of us really need to know." This note reaffirmed why I feel so honoured to work with first responders. These courageous individuals live with the kind of trauma most of us can only imagine, bearing witness to life’s most challenging moments—and still showing up, shift after shift. I cannot do their job. But what I CAN do is be their champion. I can create spaces for them to feel seen, heard, and valued. My team and horses can stand beside them as they navigate the heavy mental and emotional toll of their work. To every first responder reading this: your mental health matters. You matter. Seeking help is not a weakness; it’s a strength. Whether it’s reaching out to a peer, a mental health professional, or joining a wellness program, know that there are people ready to walk alongside you. Let’s continue to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and wellness for those who give so much of themselves to keep our communities safe. Please take a moment to thank a first responder today. You never know the battles they’re quietly carrying. To my client, thank you for the gift, for your words, and for the trust you’ve placed in me and my team. It is a privilege to do this work. We will not shy away. ~ Lynn

Our Valued Supporters and Clients

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