Dream Catchers E.A.S.T. is an unmounted equine-assisted therapy/learning program with the potential to benefit individuals struggling with emotional, social, cognitive, and mental health challenges through a connection with the equine. Activities during groundwork sessions with a horse may include: grooming, feeding, leading, free rein, haltering, and arena exercises. These activities can help individuals to improve self-confidence, develop social-communication skills, improve coping and life-skills. It can also be fun and enjoyable and can lift the spirit and have a profound impact on overall wellness.

About Denise Colon

Denise Colon is a NYS Licensed Clinical Social Worker (MSW, LCSW-R) with 20+ years providing equine-assisted services and therapy. As a PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor and Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning, she currently conducts unmounted/groundwork activities in partnership with equines to promote growth, connection, wellness and improved emotional and mental health.  Her practice offers short-term and long-term psychotherapy, supportive counseling and wellness sessions for young adults, adults, seniors. Denise also specializes in working with first responders and health care providers.

Issues addressed during individual sessions include but are not limited to the following:

  • Anxiety/Depression

  • Loss/Grief/Bereavement 

  • Work/Academic Performance

  • Social Anxiety

  • Life Skills Development

  • Stress Management

  • Trauma and PTSD

Denise brings to DCEAST therapy models of practice and approach eclectic in nature. She utilizes Gestalt, Client-Centered, Solution Focused, Relational, Motivational Interviewing, and Metaphors in the Therapeutic Intervention.