Our Story

 

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Esperanza Equine was born when we, Steve and Jan Proett, moved to “The Other Colorado” to continue the last chapters of our careers with a view to nurture our own hearts.  After many strenuous decades and lessons learned, we want renew our calling to hospitality, support and healing for people who could use care.  I grew up in Northern New Mexico, and the Greenhorn Valley of Southern Colorado served up the kind of enchantment to satisfy the soul.  We want Esperanza Gathering Place to bring joy back - to all of us - if even briefly.  Many people comment that coming to Esperanza is time out of time.  That makes us happy.

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I have learned through these decades that, though impactful for story work, an office is often a limited space for good trauma informed care.  Ample research into the effectiveness of equine facilitated psychotherapy has further inspired my desire.  Plus, it makes me particularly  happy!

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​I have been a licensed professional counselor for thirty years. My work has focused on sexual abuse and exploitation and I have partnered with organizations working in this realm in Sri Lanka, Nepal, the Philippines and Southern Africa.  I have been a facilitator and therapist for The Allender Center.  I have authored three books and consider myself a lifelong learner (aren't we all?).  I am currently a student under Dr. Veronica Lac of The HERD Institute, engaged in a two-year training in equine facilitated psychotherapy.

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Part of the intention for Esperanza Equine is to cultivate the embodied experience of Christ in the healing process.  Please know that statement is simply for you to understand our heartbeat.  There is no agenda or expectation. For us, the embodiment of Christ shows itself in respect, dignity, love and healing.  Our Table excludes no one.  And we don't lead the conversation.

 

 

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