First Responders–fire, police, paramedics, EMT’s, search and rescue, 911 dispatch, and others–work on the front lines to protect us, making them routinely among the first to be exposed to a scene of conflict, trauma, or disaster. As a result, they experience injuries, post-traumatic stress, and other disorders at exceptionally high rates, well above those of the general population. NCEFT’s programs encourage physical, cognitive, and behavioral rehabilitation, providing a safe environment in which patients and clients can redevelop independence, confidence, and strength.
NCEFT never charges any First Responder clients or patients fees for services, nor do we receive governmental funding. Instead, we rely on the generosity of our supporters to fund the entirety of the First Responders Program via donations. If you would like to make a commitment to support our First Responders, please donate today.
Available Services
Equine Assisted Learning: A Wellness Program for First Responders: These workshop-style sessions involve activities with horses and are aimed at addressing topics such as self-awareness, stress reduction, and work/life balance. Sessions can be tailored for specific group goals. Sessions are un-mounted, with no riding involved and no horse experience necessary. All workshops are all facilitated by, at a minimum, a licensed mental health practitioner and an equine specialist. Contact NCEFT (info@nceft.org or 650-851-2271) for more information.
Equine-Assisted Therapy: Equine-assisted therapy utilizes equine movement as part of a coordinated intervention program to reach functional goals in the areas of physical, occupational, and speech-language therapy (a treatment strategy sometimes called hippotherapy). Individuals are accepted into our therapy program with a doctor’s prescription and an evaluation from one of our therapists. Learn more about NCEFT’s equine-assisted therapy program.
Adaptive Riding: Emphasizes the acquisition of riding and horsemanship skills, both on and off the horse, in an effort to achieve physical, emotional, and cognitive goals. Instructors are able to modify lesson plans to accommodate the needs of each individual, tailoring lessons towards specific short and long term goals. Individuals are accepted into our adaptive riding program following an evaluation by one of our instructors. Learn more about NCEFT’s adaptive riding program.
Adaptive Horsemanship: Each small group lesson involves off-horse activities designed to increase independence. Contact NCEFT (info@nceft.org or 650-851-2271) for more information about small group adaptive horsemanship opportunities.
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How to Apply
Screening is required for all NCEFT programs and services. Contact NCEFT (info@nceft.org or 650-851-2271) for more information.
