Standing Six Services & Programs _______________________________________
Who We Are
Putting First Responders First
Standing Six is an equine-facilitated program that offers First Responders and their families a non-judgmental and safe environment to heal from trauma and develop the skills to regain and maintain optimal mental health and wellness.
We are a team of ex-First Responders and Counsellors who offer private and group sessions. Our goal is to support you and your goals on your journey as a First Responder. Standing Six put First Responders first in line for health and wellness.
Our Approach
We get it
Being a First Responder is challenging work. You are on the front line of violence, trauma and split-second decision making. You are watched, critiqued and even videotaped while countless people depend on you for safety, problem solving and expertise. You do this on a daily basis without question or complaint. You are good at your job. You are also good at ignoring the wear and tear of the job, especially on your health.
At Standing Six we’ve not only been there, we understand. We know that this work can and does impact you, sometimes more than you realize. We also know that there are few places you can go where you are fully seen, heard and respected. This is where we step in. Standing Six supports and advocates for those who take care of their community.
Whether you’re new to the job or have been walking the beat for fifteen years, Standing Six is here for you.
Here for You
Standing Six is not about making you tougher. We are not about timelines, pressure or having you prove anything. Instead, we support you in making decisions that are best for you.
No matter where you are at in your career our programs help you create a safe space to sit with uncomfortable feelings like anger, frustration, loss and grief. We know what it’s like to feel like you can’t get out of bed to go to work or the disbelief when you snap at a colleague. We’ve been there.
At Standing Six we help you develop tools to thrive in life whether that be in going back to work or changing careers. Our job is to support you in looking objectively at the challenges of the job and then to put your health and wellness first
Women
Even in the 21st century, women still have negative experiences in choosing a career that has historically been male-dominated. It doesn’t stop us but sometimes it can be tricky navigating the hallways of an old boy’s club. We hear you and understand. Standing Six offers women the choice to attend co-ed programs or female-only services facilitated by female practitioners who have stood on the front line.
Why Horses?
Why Horses?
Many First Responders experience acute and cumulative stress over the course of their career. This can cause serious mental health challenges, sleep disturbances, relationship issues and hyper-vigilance. Standing Six Programs are based on research that suggests being in nature and connecting with horses is not only a gentle and effective way to nurture and enhance mental health but that horses actually support healing. Horses co-facilitate all of Standing Sx programs. They are excellent at reading body language, responding to underlying emotions, and offering a non-judgemental presence and create a safe space for honest reflection and self-compassion.
What is Equine Facilitated Wellness?
The focus of EFW is healing, emotional well-being, and empowerment. Although Equine Facilitated Wellness is not psychotherapy or counselling it is a learning experience that promotes self awareness; social and communication skills: and tools for coping with personal challenges and stress. EFW is based on research that suggests being in nature and connecting with animals is not only a gentle and effective way to foster self discovery but that horses actually support healing and mental wellness. EFW is currently used all over the world in therapeutic work with war veterans, people with autism and traumatized children. While EFW works well alone, it is also used in partnership with mental health professionals.
Horses are excellent teachers in practicing mindfulness, setting healthy boundaries and learning to live in community. Other benefits include:
- Increased confidence and self esteem
- Improved communication and social skills
- Increased empathy
- A knowledge of what healthy relationships are and how to achieve them
- A sense of belonging and connection
- A renewed sense of resilience and courage
Programs
Private Sessions:
Private sessions with the herd are customized to meet your individual goals and needs. Client’s will learn about herd dynamics, horse psychology and experience the value of a healthy relationship with the herd.
Whether your goal is to bring more mindfulness and calm into your life or heal from a work related injury, an effective program will be designed just for you.
Take in your own personal retreat and plan a multiple day intensive and stay at our popular bed and breakfast or loft retreat. Carla’s approach is founded on a gentle and nurturing acknowledgment of each person’s uniqueness.
Sessions are $150/hour + gst
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