Equi-Sense team fosters human-horse connections in West County

Moonshine, the recently rescued mustang, is a striking horse with a coat that resembles the silvery white color of the moon. His small dark speckles give him a unique appearance, reminiscent of the cratered face of our satellite. Moonshine used to roam wild in Devil’s Garden in Arches National Park in Utah but now finds himself under the care of Erica Tom, who runs a therapeutic horsemanship practice in west county.

Erica Tom, wearing an Equi-Sense baseball cap with her long brown hair braided over her shoulder, has a special way of interacting with Moonshine. Rather than commanding him, she asks him to perform tasks, always including „please“ and „thank you“ in her communication. This approach fosters a sense of mutual respect and trust between them. Moonshine particularly enjoys being brushed, a simple act that helps strengthen their bond.

As the executive director of Equi-Sense, a nonprofit organization established in 2018, Erica Tom works with trauma survivors, children in the foster care system, BIPOC individuals, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Through working with horses like Moonshine, she helps her clients navigate their emotions, build trust, and develop healthy relationships. Equi-Sense partners with TLC Child and Family Services and Journey Academy to run group sessions for children at the Giddy Up Ranch in Santa Rosa, involving various community stakeholders.

Equi-Sense operates on a trauma-informed approach, focusing on therapeutic interactions without claiming to be a substitute for professional therapy. Moonshine is one of two horses at Hillcrest Farm in Occidental, where Equi-Sense conducts its sessions. Indigo, a deep-brown mare with heterochromia, also plays a role in helping clients work through their emotions alongside Erica Tom and her team.

The welcoming and transformative environment at Equi-Sense has had a profound impact on both clients and volunteers. Juliet Malconian, an intern at Equi-Sense, shared how the safe space allowed her to embrace her queerness in a way she had never experienced before. Witnessing moments of gratitude and healing, such as a teenage client feeling a deep connection with Indigo, reinforces the importance of the work being done at Equi-Sense.

Dyllan Hersey, a volunteer intern at Equi-Sense, found solace and healing through working with horses after experiencing trauma in their personal life. Their journey of self-discovery and healing has been supported by the inclusive and nurturing environment created by Erica Tom and her team. By providing a safe space for individuals to connect with horses and themselves, Equi-Sense is making a meaningful impact on the lives of those who seek solace and healing through equine therapy.