Using horses as therapy

casey@theheraldnewspapers.com The English Mountain Retreat (EMR) offers a spiritually based rehabilitation facility for recovering alcohol and drug addicts in a serene mountain setting. English Mountain Retreat Executive Director, David Eddleman, and his certified counselors offer several unique programs that emphasize a holistic approach, treating the mind, body and spirit of each individual and help them successfully adapt to sobriety in the long run. “We try to emphasize one-on-one therapy to address the needs of each individual,” said Eddleman. “Instead of trying to get people to conform to our program,” said Eddleman, they try to form the program around the individual. EMR offers a unique therapy program utilizing horses to help the individual focus on the building a healthy relationship, through a non-judgmental party. The company’s website describes the horse therapy program as follows: “Equine-Assisted Therapy creates a unique learning experience for the individual, using horses to advance spiritual growth. It is an experiential therapy used to explore personal identity and focuses on the basics of a healthy relationship. Horses are used as a non-judgmental therapeutic instrument enabling the participant to communicate without the perceived fear of rejection.” EMR offers a 30 to 90 day residential program with a 56-bed condominium facility, a dining facility and worship center. They also have a miniature golf course. Each of the EMR staff “are licensed alcohol and drug counselors and are certified,” said Eddleman. The counselors are on site daily to respond to the individual needs of each resident. “Through extended care programs we are able to address underlying issues that led to addiction,” according to Eddleman. They also work with the individual’s family to help them understand the addiction so that they can help that individual to be successful in the long run. Pictures of the facility—the accommodations, the grounds and the amazing area views—can be viewed on EMR’s website: www.EnglishMoutainRetreat.com. The website also describes each of their recovery programs offered including: anger management, responsible living, Moral Reconation Therapy and drug and alcohol education. Further information can also be obtained by calling 865-250-9502. As an aftercare facility, EMR only accepts medically stable residents, and currently only accepts adults aged 18 and older.