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.
Ailish Riggs Dermody
MA, NCC, Resident in Counseling
Ailish came to Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy as a horse lover and curious clinical mental health counseling graduate student, and her journey was transformed by experiences with horses and therapeutic interventions. This led her to pursue training in equine-assisted therapy and adopt Whiskey, a beautiful Mustang, who is now a valued member of the Equibliss psychotherapy team. Ailish is a trauma-informed therapist specializing in trauma therapy for adults and adolescents, focusing on grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, recovery, anxiety, and emotional regulation. She holds an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University and has completed certifications in Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, Trauma, Grief and Loss, and Prolonged Grief.
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.