The STABLEs: Transforming lives through equine therapy
Kelly A. Burlison Middle School AG Teacher Katie Rohan speaks to rider Sadie Cazares at The STABLEs. Victoria Kemper
The STABLEs, located just minutes from downtown Farmington, is not just an equine therapy center; it’s a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of community, passion, and the extraordinary bond between humans and horses.
At its core, The STABLEs unique approach involves horses of various breeds and ages, each contributing their skills and talents acquired through years of experience to empower clients.
“Our name encapsulates our goal,” said Michelle Miller, public relations officer for The STABLEs. “The acronym spells out ‘Support, Teach, Advocate, Bond, Love, and Empower.’”
The organization offers a diverse array of services, ranging from fundamental riding skills to cowboy-mounted shooting, but what sets them apart is their commitment to inclusivity. Every client embarks on their therapeutic journey with a complimentary assessment lesson, enabling a personalized curriculum tailored to their specific needs.
Alicia Miley, a friend of STABLEs certified instructor Suzanne Baker spends some time with the horses between equine therapy sessions. Victoria Kemper
“We offer specialized equine therapy through our certified instructor, Suzanne Baker,” Miller said. “She has been trained in equine therapy and holds numerous college degrees in agricultural business and equine-based education. We have a facility that is set up to provide equal opportunities for those with the most debilitating conditions to those that are fully capable.”
Sadie Cazares is a client of The STABLEs who has eleven different diagnoses, including ventriculomegaly, cerebral palsy, Von Willebrand’s disease, nystagmus making her legally blind, autism, sensory processing disorder, anxiety, depression, ODD, ADHD and epilepsy. Sadie has been working with Baker for some time and said her favorite part of her sessions is “seeing Ms. Suzanne.”
Sadie’s mom said she can see the difference in Sadie even as they drive up the road. She becomes more relaxed, and it helps her through the tough days.
Baker said clients like Sadie are the reason she loves doing what she does. She said she has seen the program change lives, not only for the clients but also for the horses.
Several of the horses at The Stables are rescue animals, including 28-year-old “Titus.”
Miller said the horses are their pride and joy and that they work so very patiently with their riders and develop the most trusting relationships. It’s truly amazing to see.
“Horses have a unique ability to sense stress and physical limitations, offering the rider an ability to control their body and mind through the trust of the horse,” Miller said. “Equine therapy enhances core strength and mobility, and offers calming effects, providing a natural way to address anxiety and PTSD.”
The need for mental and physical health services is a growing concern locally and across the nation. The STABLEs aims to help bridge the gap.
“There is a large lack of mental health services nationwide,” Miller said. “If we are able to help just one client with their ailments, then it is worth every bit of our hard work. Having equine therapy as an option to treat these disabilities is an excellent way to avoid the ongoing issues of polypharmacy.”
The mental and physical impact of The STABLEs’ equine therapy program is tangible. Miller shared a story of one client’s amazing progress.
“We have a client that has been with Ms. Suzanne for quite some time now,” Miller said. “This client came to us in a wheelchair, unable to walk and with minimal communication. After starting our program and working extensively with Ms. Suzanne and our horses, this client can now walk with minimal assistance and communicates beautifully! It’s truly magical to experience life changes like this!”
The STABLEs is not just an organization but a community of passionate individuals with a shared love for horses and a deep belief in the life-changing benefits they offer. Miller said its vision is one of a brighter future for their communities and the people they serve.
“Each of us that are a part of The STABLEs, whether a board member or employee, have a special place in our hearts for horses and the benefits they offer,” Miller said. “We all have a passion for what is taking place here and can see such a bright future for our communities and the people we will serve.”
As a non-profit organization, The STABLEs relies on various sources of funding, as only a small portion comes from lessons. Sponsorships, donations, grants, and fundraising efforts are their primary sources of financial support. Organizations like Purina Horse Feed and local businesses, including Miller’s Feed, have played a vital role in sustaining their mission.
For those looking to get involved, The STABLEs is always on the lookout for volunteers. Whether it’s assisting with scheduling clients, cleaning stalls, or helping plan fundraising events, there’s a place for everyone in their mission. To join the cause, you can send an email to thestables.etf@gmail.com or send a message on The STABLEs Facebook Page for more information.
The STABLEs is waiting for community board approval to welcome back clients whose appointments were halted due to another provider leaving the area abruptly.
To express support for the mission, The STABLEs encourages clients, their loved ones, and anyone who stands with them to send letters to thestables.etf@gmail.com. The hope is to demonstrate the pressing need for equine therapy services to the St. Francois County Board. A meeting with the county board is scheduled for Nov. 14.
Victoria Kemper is a staff writer for the Daily Journal and Democrat News.
