History
In 2019, Refuge Services served approximately 160 clients per week providing over 7500 client hours. In the past year, we have assessed over 80 veterans needing mental health services rating 4+ on all categories on the PCL-5 (PTSD assessment measurement tool). They are indicating extreme distress in life functioning. Majority of these veterans have been in traditional therapy and report being “Stuck” and/or “Nothing is Working.” Over 50% have either attempted suicide and/or contemplated it in the past 2 years. Due to positive program impact, we have also seen an increase in the number of veteran-to-veteran referrals as word of mouth about our veterans programs grows. Recently, our veteran program was spotlighted on Texas Country Reporter as a leader in equine therapy in the state of Texas. We were selected for our overwhelming positive outcomes on veteran’s recovery process. This has created a surge in awareness and those in need are reaching out in greater numbers. Refuge Services, Inc. is outstanding and unique in the following ways:
· Employs the author of the only textbooks in print on Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy which are taught in several universities around the world
· Employs 2 of the 14 internationally trainers in the field of EAP
· Employs two international supervisors for advanced EAP certification status
· Is among the first 50 to be certified in EAP in the world, with over 4000 mental health professionals now certified
· Is the first certified, “out-patient” EAP program in Texas, leading the state in this innovative approach.
· Is the largest equine therapy facility in West Texas and is one of the top EAGALA Military Program in the world, serving more veterans than any other program in the country.
· Asked by the Commanding Officer of US Marine Aircraft Group 24 in Oahu, Hawaii to provide a 2-day intensive EAP retreat in 2016 on the island for Unit 463, who had lost 16 members of Unit due to helicopter crashes & sudden deaths on base.
· Partners with local, regional, and statewide programs such as Ranch at Dove Tree, CLASS, New Legacy Home, Rescare, Caprock Home Health Services, Midland Vet Center, Starcare, Lubbock Vet Center, Lubbock Regional VA, & VetStar, and surrounding school districts, private counseling services, as well as direct referrals from parents, doctors, etc.
· Contracts with local and regional licensed counselors and school counselors to meet the needs of those with disabilities, at-risk children, veterans, and families.
Refuge Services, Inc. is a member of the international organization: Equine-Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA), leaders in the field of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy emphasizing safety training and therapeutic techniques. All activities are approved by EAGALA and PATH certifications. Refuge Services’ Director of Equine Services is also trained by PATH, Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, which provides national standards for therapeutic riding.
Types of disabilities/conditions served at Refuge Services:
|
Lubbock's Refuge Services, Inc.
Hippotherapy & Therapeutic Riding
*Click here to see this brochure
Hippotherapy Testimonials:
"It doesn't matter how bad a day I have had, once I get up on the back of my horse all my worries go away. I now know why you guys named this place Refuge. I have no sadness or worries when I am here."
- Client with Spinal Bifida, age 14