The Placer County Veterans Service Office connects veterans and their families with benefits, resources and supportive services throughout the county. Photo designed by Magnific

GRANITE BAY, CA (MPG) - Placer County is expanding access to mental health services for veterans and military families through a new partnership with a local nonprofit.

The county’s Veterans Service Office is partnering with Hearts Landing Ranch to provide Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and learning for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, guard and reserve members and their dependent spouses and children.

Funded through a California Department of Veterans Affairs Veteran Behavioral Health Outreach grant, the program provides trauma-informed support that complements traditional mental health services and helps participants build trust, emotional regulation, communication skills and healthy relationships.

"Many veterans face barriers to seeking traditional mental health treatment, even when they know they could benefit from support," said Steve Johnson, the county’s veterans service officer. "This partnership creates another path to healing, helping veterans and their families connect with services in a setting that feels welcoming, supportive and accessible."

WATCH A VIDEO ABOUT THE PROGRAM.

The program will be delivered by mental health professionals and Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association-certified (EAGALA) facilitators through eight-week cohorts. Participants will receive an intake evaluation, eight therapy sessions and an exit assessment. Sessions focus on ground-based interactions with horses and are designed to support trauma recovery, trust-building and personal growth.

Hearts Landing Ranch is recognized as one of only 22 programs in the United States to earn the EAGALA Military Designation.

The Placer County Veterans Service Office connects veterans and their families with benefits, resources and supportive services throughout the county. County officials say the new program offers an additional option for veterans who may be reluctant to engage in a traditional clinical setting. The partnership is expected to serve up to 80 participants over the next two years.

"This program is about meeting veterans where they are and creating opportunities for connection and healing," said Hearts Landing Ranch executive director Donna Eckwortzel. "My father is a 25-year Navy veteran, having served in Vietnam. I am honored to partner with the county to support those who have served our country and their families.”