Meet the Herd

Therapist: Connie McNamara, LPC

When asked about her experience with horses, Connie recalls a t-shirt she had as a kid that said "I wasn't born on a horse, but I got on one as soon as I could". From a young age, Connie was drawn to horses as partners and friends. She experienced the world of competitive showing until her adolecensce where she began teaching and training horses. After graduating with her bachelors from the University of Arizona, Connie developed her leadership skills as a program director for the Valley of the Sun YMCA, then began her Masters in Psychology and Counseling at Grand Canyon University-graduating in 2021. Connie completed her clinical internship at the Meadows Behavioral Healthcare and has developed her therapeutic lense through serving in the Equine, Family and Intensive Outpatient department of the Meadows. Connie is trained in Post Induction Therapy (PIT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Pscyhodrama and has been trained by industry pioneers such as Pia Melody, Peter Levine, Bessel van der Kolk and Tian Dayton.

Connie understands that we experience trauma in relationship so we must heal in relationship-she masterfully combines over 30 years of equine experience with a lifetime of personal and professional therapy to bring to life her dream of Reins to Recovery.

Lysander (Phantom's Phoenix)

Previously known as "Phantom," Lysander is a remarkable horse who holds a special place in the hearts of many and is often regarded as the catalyst for the transformative journey of Reins to Recovery, which began in 2018. His name, Lysander, translates to "liberator of men," a fitting title for a horse that has provided countless individuals with a sense of freedom and healing through their interactions with him. As a sport horse, he boasts a unique lineage that combines the athleticism of warmbloods and the spirited nature of thoroughbreds, making him not only graceful but also incredibly versatile in his abilities. When he is not engaged in the profound work of holding space for clients who are navigating their grief, Lysander finds joy and excitement in the exhilarating sport of barrel racing. This activity allows him to showcase his speed and agility, as he deftly maneuvers around barrels in a thrilling display of skill and training. His dynamic personality shines through during these moments, as he thrives on the energy and enthusiasm of the sport, proving to be a true athlete in his own right. Lysander’s role goes beyond just being a horse; he serves as a compassionate companion and a source of comfort for those in need. His gentle demeanor and intuitive nature allow him to connect deeply with clients, providing them with a safe space to express their emotions and begin the healing process. Through his presence, many have experienced profound moments of clarity and release, making him an invaluable member of the Reins to Recovery team. In summary, Lysander is not just the first horse of Reins to Recovery; he is a symbol of hope and liberation, embodying the spirit of healing through equine-assisted therapy. His dual life as both a competitive barrel racer and a therapeutic companion exemplifies the unique bond between humans and horses, showcasing the incredible impact that these majestic animals can have on our lives.

Rosetta "Rosie"

Rosetta, affectionately known as Rosie, embodies the ideal maternal figure that many people yearn for in their lives. With her gentle demeanor, playful spirit and profound wisdom, Rosie represents the epitome of maternal brilliance, nurturing and play. This remarkable mare boasts over a decade of experience as a dedicated therapy horse, during which she has played an instrumental role in teaching high-acuity inpatients the invaluable skills of mindfulness and self-love.

She has an innate ability to invite individuals into a playful space, encouraging them to look inward and explore their thoughts and feelings with a sense of wonder.

As a quarter horse, Rosie possesses a versatile lineage that contributes to her adaptability in various activities. This breed is known for its agility, intelligence, and strong work ethic, traits that Rosie exemplifies in abundance. Beyond her therapeutic work, she thrives in engaging challenges that stimulate her mind, such as ranch riding and cow sorting. These activities not only showcase her physical capabilities but also highlight her keen problem-solving skills and her eagerness to participate in tasks that require focus and teamwork.

Rosie's presence is not merely about her physical attributes; it is her emotional intelligence that truly sets her apart. She has an innate ability to sense the feelings of those around her, providing comfort and support while reminding people to not take life so seriously with her playfulness. Through her interactions, Rosie teaches valuable lessons about compassion, resilience, and the importance of nurturing oneself.

Overall, Rosetta, or Rosie, is much more than just a therapy horse; she is a beacon of hope and love for those she encounters. Her extensive experience, combined with her nurturing nature and versatile abilities, make her an invaluable asset in therapeutic settings and beyond. Through her work, she continues to inspire countless individuals to embrace mindfulness, self-acceptance, reminding them to not take themselves or life too serious and enjoy the ride.

Piper

The newest member of the Reins to Recovery herd, Piper, is not just a horse; she embodies a profound message that curiosity and trauma cannot coexist in harmony. With her striking presence and gentle demeanor, Piper serves as a living testament to the healing power of connection and self-exploration. As a perfectionist in her recovery journey, she mirrors the aspirations of many who seek to overcome their own challenges. Her journey, filled with resilience and determination, inspires those around her to strive for their best selves while navigating the complexities of emotional healing.

Piper's sweet and inquisitive nature creates a welcoming atmosphere for clients at Reins to Recovery. This unique approach helps clients to break down the barriers that trauma often erects, allowing them to engage in the therapeutic process with an open heart and mind. Piper's presence acts as a catalyst for introspection, prompting clients to consider their own experiences and the factors that shape their emotional landscapes.

One of Piper's most impactful contributions to the therapeutic environment is her signature therapy question: "What is holding you back?" This simple yet profound inquiry encourages clients to confront their fears and insecurities, fostering a dialogue that can lead to significant breakthroughs. By posing this question, Piper helps individuals to identify the obstacles that prevent them from fully embracing their potential and pursuing their goals. This process of self-reflection is crucial in the journey of recovery, as it allows clients to acknowledge their struggles while also recognizing their strengths.

Through her interactions with clients, Piper not only facilitates a deeper understanding of personal issues but also promotes the importance of building relationships. Clients often find solace in her companionship, which can help to alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness that are common in those who have experienced trauma.

In summary, Piper is more than just a horse; she is a symbol of hope and resilience for those on the path to recovery. Her curious spirit and commitment to perfection in her own healing journey serve as an inspiration for clients to engage in their own processes with curiosity and openness. By encouraging individuals to explore their inner worlds and confront the barriers that hold them back, Piper plays a crucial role in the transformative journey of self-discovery and healing at Reins to Recovery.