About
Working with horses can provide a safe space for healing and vulnerability, helping you to build self-compassion, become fully present with your inner self, and improve your emotional intelligence. Watch the interview below to understand the benefits of Equine Facilitated Wellness.
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Hi, I’m Martin Gendron, a social worker and equine wellness facilitator near Medicine Hat, Alberta. For ten years I worked as a Medical Technician in the Canadian Forces. After my service, I have had first-hand experience of the benefits of Equine Facilitated Wellness. Working with horses has changed me for the better.
Today I facilitate equine-assisted wellness to help clients with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, ADD, autism spectrum, addiction, aggression, low self-confidence, indigenous healing, and life transitions.
I provide one-on-one sessions at my private stable in a field, in our indoor riding arena, or in our modest barn. No riding is involved, so there is no need for experience with horses. Miniature horses and other small farm animals can be included if you prefer to start small.
When helping, coaching, mentoring, and training clients, I facilitate sessions between a client and a horse where the client builds a healthy connection with the horse, exploring their inner thought and feelings. These are not counselling sessions; these are self-exploration sessions with relaxation, grounding exercises, and reflection time.
I also cover psychoeducation on biological response, the window of tolerance, communication, and brain functionality, providing the client with the necessary knowledge to become an active participant in their healing.
Please reach out for a free 60-minute session for more information on whether equine wellness is the right fit for you.
“I meet my clients where they are at emotionally and always respect client boundaries and limitations”
More About Me
I own six well-trained horses at Gendron Stables and have lived around horses for almost a decade. I’m trained in horsemanship, equine facilitated wellness, equine activity for children, and equine boarding facilities. During my free time, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two kids and engaging in outdoor activities.
When I was a medical technician at the Canadian Forces I spent the majority of that time in clinics helping soldiers with their medical needs and assisting mental health professionals and physicians. While working as a Medical Technician, I was met with a traumatic accident that became a turning point in my life. After the accident, working with horses helped me overcome trauma, anxiety, anger, and depression symptoms. Having witnessed the benefits of Equine Facilitated Learning and conducted experimental research on myself, my mission is to support those looking for a different and more holistic path to healing.
Services can be offered in both English and French.