Equines For Freedom

Equines for Freedom (EFF) is a nonprofit organization that treats active and former military personnel and First Responders who are experiencing symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) AT NO CHARGE, no matter the source of the trauma. EFF uses one of the most effective treatments available; Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which offers clients a nontraditional approach to therapy. This therapy combines a licensed mental health professional, a certified equine specialist, and a therapy horse to create a research-based treatment model which strives to resolve emotional difficulties caused by disturbing, difficult, or frightening life experiences. The horse is an integral part of treatment because horses are prey animals and therefore are extremely alert and sensitive to the emotions of those around them.  Clients learn to identify their own emotional state by observing the horse’s reactions.  The horse also helps the client stay grounded as they process past traumas.

EFF has treated over 200 veterans to date including veterans from Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan.  A common theme among those in treatment is that they have tried everything and nothing has been effective, often stating that this treatment model is the first thing that has really helped. This treatment has been so successful that we have expanded to also treat First Responders through a separately funded program.

PTSD is a serious issue that needs everyone’s attention as it is estimated that there are 22 veteran suicides per day due to unresolved emotional difficulties. EFF set out to reduce veteran suicide and has worked diligently to fund well equipped treatment teams.  The EFF board of directors is a group of volunteers working tirelessly to find funding through local fund raisers, community support, and a few grants.

Who We Are

Over five years ago, the idea of providing our Service Members and now First Responders, with a unique and highly effective treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress (PTSD) began to grow and prosper in the minds of Military, they recognized the need to address this tragic situation and the non-profit Equines for Freedom (EFF) was formed.

In 2019 EFF began providing treatment to First Responders as well as Veterans. PTSD comes from an unlimited number of life experiences and it impacts one’s mind and physical well-being. The combination of haunting memories, social avoidance, anxiety, and depression can become so severe that individuals choose suicide, believing it is the only escape. Our team of therapists is here to change that with Equine Assisted-Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EA-EMDR) therapy forcurrent and former military and First Responders who have been diagnosed with PTSD. The VA considers EMDR one of the top 3 treatments for PTSD.

Our Target population and area: Current and former U.S. Military Service Members and First Responders suffering from post-traumatic stress living in NE Pennsylvania (Bradford, Carbon, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Schuylkill, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming Counties).

Our goal is to provide this therapy at no cost to the Service Member or Emergency Responder. Equines For Freedom is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) group. Copy of our 501(c)(3) is available on request.