Beth Burgmeyer, LPC

Holding space for a client and supporting someone just by being with them have created some of the most powerful moments in therapy, especially equine assisted psychotherapy. There are moments between clients and their horses where I need to step back, be quiet, and let the power of the relationship between the horse and the client happen. The other day I was giving a demonstration on ways to facilitate rhythmic riding during therapy. This person wasn’t a client, but they experienced a powerful moment. I told the others therapists watching, “This is when I shut up and get out of the way and let the person sit in this moment for as long as they need to.” It’s natural to want to process something as soon as we see it, but “being with” and holding space often have more power than words. I would process these things later, but not in the moment.

Getting training from the The Natural Lifemanship Institute has been life-changing, both personally and professionally. Their trauma informed and relationship-based approach to therapy offers hope to so many people, especially those with complex trauma. I feel blessed every day that I get to do this work with my clients, with my therapy partner, and with our incredible equine partners.