Equibliss Psychotherapy Therapists
Equibliss Psychotherapy was established in 2013 and has evolved into a community of like-minded therapists who utilize horse and nature in their practice to offer equine-assisted therapy. This experiential, relational, and somatic approach to mental health counseling allows clients to find a more organic way to regain a sense of safety, facilitate healing in their whole person, and foster a sense of belonging to a community, particularly in the context of trauma therapy.
Jessica Spechardt
MA, NCC, Resident in Counseling
Jessica invites you to engage in equine-assisted therapy alongside our equine co-facilitators through a holistic approach that incorporates mindfulness, nature, and a sense of play. Her work offers a safe space for you to reconnect with yourself and your environment while collaboratively discovering solutions and support. By emphasizing embodiment in the present moment and developing measurable goals, Jessica can enhance your mental health counseling experience, improving your sense of agency, mental well-being, and confidence. She can assist you in navigating relationships and challenges of all kinds, including those related to trauma therapy. Jessica works with adults, adolescents, and couples.
Frank Fiorenini
MA, MFT Resident
Frank works with individuals and couples navigating anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, and identity concerns. He is an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist with direct clinical experience supporting LGBTQ+ clients, and he welcomes people of all identities, body sizes, orientations, and relationship structures.
With over 20 years of experience as a wellness coach and personal trainer, Frank brings a holistic, body-aware perspective to therapy. He has a particular interest in body image concerns, body dysmorphia, exercise addiction, and the emotional side of physical change, areas where his wellness background and clinical training naturally intersect.
Frank’s approach is somatic, collaborative, and tailored to each client. Sessions are available in the office, virtually, or outdoors. He offers walk-and-talk and nature-based therapy for clients who find movement, grounding, and open space more supportive than a traditional office setting.
Animals
Bravo
Bravo is a 9 year old German Shepherd with the kindest and gentlest disposition. He came from Virginia German Shepherd Rescue at the beginning of 2021 and immediately showcased his friendly nature to everyone he meets, including dogs, people, and other animals. Bravo's experiences continue to grow as he learns to play with toys, digs, and attends Level 2 Animal Assisted Play Therapy training with Dr. Rise VanFleet. His ongoing positive reinforcement training aims to uncover all of his likes and strengths. Currently, Bravo is being supervised towards certification and has enjoyed participating in mental health counseling, working with clients of all ages, including teenagers and adults, as part of trauma therapy and exploring the benefits of equine-assisted therapy.
Rocha
Rocha is an 8-year-old adopted husky girl who brings a confident and loving attitude to everyone she meets. She is a quick learner and an empathic listener, providing gentle kisses to those in need of emotional support. Her comforting presence can be beneficial in various settings, including equine-assisted therapy, mental health counseling, and trauma therapy.
Snuggles
Snuggleberry (“Snuggles”) is our 12-year-old off-track thoroughbred who has fundamentally changed our understanding of horses and thoroughbreds. He is a playful and inquisitive extrovert who thrives on connecting with everyone, both people and animals. He has never met a stranger. Snuggles’ approach to life serves as a constant reminder of how much being present, willing to learn, and play can enhance our wellbeing. This connection is especially valuable in the context of equine-assisted therapy, where he helps individuals in mental health counseling and trauma therapy restore their ability to thrive in relationships.
Ember
Ember is an off-track thoroughbred who joined our herd in December 2022 after a long and successful career on the track until he was 9. Initially, Ember has been more reserved, but he has continued to show up for clients in a grounded and profound way, especially in equine-assisted therapy sessions. Although considered a war horse due to his extensive experience, he has played a significant role in helping clients understand the importance of routine, work-life balance, and leadership in their mental health counseling and trauma therapy journeys.