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WHC Therapy Systems

Home of – AZ Whole Heart Connection and Whole Horse Connection

Professional mental health counseling for the individual, families, groups and couples utilizing research-based clinical and equine-assisted interventions

PROFESSIONAL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING SERVICES

I specialize in treating trauma, complex-trauma, codependency and relationship dynamics.  I utilize a combination of Dialectical Behavioral Skills Therapy (DBT), Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Relational Life Therapy (RLT), Post-Induction Therapy (PIT/Meadows Model) and if requested Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy to individualize a treatment plan specific to your mental health needs and goals for therapy.

EQUINE-ASSISTED PSYCHOTHERAPY FOR HUMANS

The horse is a natural grounding entity. When one learns to be mindful in the presence of the horse, the horse provides instant feedback to the people around them.  Horses have the ability to help regulate the troubling emotions that have become a problem for the people experiencing them.

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy involves a client, a facilitator, and one or more horses in an arena type setting.  The facilitator offers suggestions to the client in regard to communicating with the horse.  Once the horse has “hooked on” to the client, the facilitator steps away and allows the horse to continue the session.

EQUINE THERAPY FOR HORSES – Whole Horse Connection, LLC

MASTERSON METHOD INTEGRATED BODYWORK

The Masterson Method (MM) is an integrated, multi-modality method of equine bodywork.  It is a unique, interactive method in which you learn to recognize and follow the responses of the horse in order to find and release accumulated tension.  Christie utilizes MM in her Equine-Assisted Therapy program to help clients connect on a deeper level with the true nature of the horse.

MICRO CURRENT THERAPY

Christie only uses FDA approved therapy devices for horses.  These units utilize microcurrent, a scientifically proven method for relieving soreness and muscular tension, backed by over 40 years of research.

KINESIOLOGY TAPING

Several years ago, veterinarians and trainers began experimenting with kinesio-tape on horses and discovered that kinesiology-taping is as effective for horses as it is for humans.  By strategically placing kinesio-tape on identified anatomical structures after a bodywork treatment, the horse is able to maintain awareness of the improved range of motion created during the session.

ABOUT ME

I currently live in Gold Canyon, Arizona with my husband, 2 dogs, 4 horses, 3 goats and 5 tortoises.  I was born in Massachusetts and have also lived in Wyoming, Colorado, Maine and Florida.

BLOG

I am so happy to be able to share insights and wonderful information I find with you. Check back here often for new blog posts!

TESTIMONIALS

My horses are always happy to see Christie arrive at my barn.  Christie takes her time with each one, addressing their individual concerns while working with their very unique personalities.  My horses are highly spirited performance horses, and tend to be a bit flighty and quirky, but Christie seems to have the touch that calms them.  I would recommend Christie to anyone who wants their horses to feel their best.

– Susan Turner

As a client of Christie’s, I can tell you that her patience with my horses is unmatched.  She is calming and comforting to them and to me.  She is wonderful at explaining each and everything she is doing for them and why.  Christie’s knowledge and calm demeanor will enhance anybody’s experience with these beautiful and majestic creatures.

– Dawn Allison

Christie has an amazing ability to read and adapt to any horse in each moment. It doesn’t matter whether it is a high strung, nervous mare or an over the top, playful gelding, she can “see” what they need and offer calm, drama free support. She is also good at communicating with us while she is working so we can gain insights on how we can help our horses stay comfortable when she isn’t around.

– Chris and Louie Docter

Christie is truly an expert in the field of equine therapy.  She is impressive not only because she is effective with what she does to the horses, but also because she freely shares her knowledge and teaches me techniques that I can do for follow up.  I have not yet met a therapist that is so passionate about helping the horse owners get a clear understanding of what is going on with their horses, and also what they can do to help them.  My bond with my horse has increased immensely since working with Christie.

– Addie Montero

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