Northern Nevada first responders will soon have a new way to earn continuing education credits while participating in an equine-assisted learning program designed to address job-related stress and build resilience.
The free program, called Stable Responders, begins August 7 and includes six sessions for firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatchers and law enforcement. Healing Arenas is offering the program in partnership with Thrivewell in Minden, with continuing education credits provided through supervision from the Carson City Fire Department's Clinical Education Department.
Participants will work alongside retired racehorses as part of the learning experience.
"We’ve partnered with Thrivewell to provide this educational component for Fire, EMS, Dispatch, and Law enforcement to promote resilience and career retention. Retired racehorses help facilitate the Project, who bring unparalleled real-time feedback during sessions," said Julie Baker, founder of Healing Arenas.
According to Healing Arenas, Stable Responders was developed after the Stable Vets Project, which has been held in Gardnerville since 2023. The organization said veterans who completed Operation Alpha, an eight-week equine-assisted service project, self-reported a 12% increase in resilience.
"Thrivewell is honored to partner with Healing Arenas to offer a proactive, resilience-building experience for first responders," said Misty Guantonio, LMFT, LCADC, owner of Thrivewell. "By teaching practical resiliency skills in this setting, we hope to buffer the impact of cumulative stress and support long-term wellness in Fire, EMS, and law enforcement communities."
Healing Arenas said it is certified through Arenas for Change to provide the services offered through Stable Responders. The organization said the program is intended to provide first responders with respite while helping them manage work-related stress and remain in their careers.
The retired racehorses used in the program are protected through the racing industry. Healing Arenas said its facility is accredited by the Thoroughbred Aftercare Alliance, and the horses are supported by Thoroughbred Charities of America and the California Retirement Management Account.
Healing Arenas is seeking business sponsors to help keep the program free for first responders and offset staffing and supply costs.
