Equine-assisted therapy program for veterans to start June 26

Active military members and veterans are invited to participate in a free, eight-week, equine-assisted group therapy program that begins Wednesday, June 26, at True Grit Stables, 22328 Blue Bayou Way, Georgetown.

Psychologist Dr. Vincenza Fabber is the founder of True Grit Stables and the Joseph Patrick Fabber Memorial Foundation. She has dedicated her life to prevention of suicide and bullying, using opportunities around her to provide affordable therapy to children and adults, and now veterans in particular. As partnering programs of Horses for Mental Health, the organizations were awarded an Adaptive Sports Grant for $371,070 by the Department of Veterans Affairs. This grant provides services for 225 veterans and members of the armed forces nationwide.

“Veterans put their lives on the line to keep this country safe and free. This grant aims to help them feel the same way. There is not nearly enough support for the military once they arrive back home. True Grit Stables wants to pave the way toward a more accepting and beneficial community for veterans, and this is just the start,” said Fabber.

She said the grant comes at a critical time, addressing the alarming statistics highlighted in the 2022 report by the VA, which revealed that an average of 16.8 veterans died by suicide each day. The foundation was founded in memory of a veteran who died by suicide. The cost of the program is fully covered, with absolutely no fees for any of the interested participants.

True Grit Stables and Horses for Mental Health are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of veterans through access to mental health services involving horses. They aim to address symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, depression and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. 

For more information, contact Fabber at 302-775-1905 or plaworks@aol.com.