Angel House Australia - Equine Assisted Psychotherapy Program
Who are Angel House Australia?
The Angel House Australia foundation serves the community by connecting children, youth and adults living with disability or other challenges.
What is MC Equestrian’s role in assisting this fantastic foundation?
The EAP Program is one of the programs offered by Angel House Australia. Mel, the founder, brings a number of participants (children and adults) from all over Sydney to MC Equestrian three times a week for equine assisted therapy. Mel comments that she “feels very loyal to Dee, as she has made it possible for me to run my program here in Australia in a collaborative partnership”.
A number of our incredibly nurturing, patient and kind MC Equestrian coaches; Brianna, Donna & Sally work with these individuals during the day, on a weekly basis to help them overcome challenges and fears and strengthen their trust and communication and increase their enjoyment and quality of life.
About Mel Mardon the fabulous founder:
Mel is the founder of Angel House and has a passion for people. Mel is a wonderful, kind-hearted lady that exudes authenticity with her lovely, warm nature. She is a life coach, PTSD Counsellor, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, Counsellor, and NDIS Behaviour Support Practitioner with various other certifications and registrations in the mental health sector.
What is Equine Assisted Psychotherapy?
This is a highly effective program based on non-verbal communication between horses and those living with a disability or self-concept issues among other challenges. Research has confirmed many equine therapy benefits including lowering blood pressure and heart rate, alleviating stress, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Equine therapy has also helped people struggling with addictions or mental illness.
During Equine therapy participants use their relationships with the horses to identify and cope with feelings, establish interpersonal skills, build trust and communication, set boundaries and overcome fears.
What led you to start such a fantastic foundation?
“I ran a similar program in South Africa on our farm where I stabled 26 horses. Angel House was originally the idea of my two eldest sons before they tragically both passed away in separate incidents when we were living in South Africa. I had always referred to my clients in South Africa as Angels. After the death of my two eldest sons, I brought my youngest son to Australia to start a new chapter in our lives, and this is how Angel House Australia Foundation was born”.
How long has Angel House been running?
2.5 years in Australia and 21 years in South Africa.
What have some of the outcomes been for the students that have been coming to MC Equestrian?
Mainly building confidence, trust and a better self-concept. The participants love coming to MCEQ. They love interacting with the horses and learning new things every week. Sal, Donna and Bree are absolutely lovely to work with and are so good with the participants.
Want to know more about Angel House Australia or the Equine Assisted Psychotherapy Program?
Visit Angel House Australia’s website
Click to read more about the Equine Assisted Psychotherapy Program
Get in touch with Mel