More than Claims and Benefits: Have you heard of this unique therapy modality?

Participants and facilitators at Guiding Reins sitting in a circle chatting in the cool shade of a tree

Many Veterans in South Carolina leave military service with some knowledge of benefits and claims services, but South Carolina is committed to taking support for Veterans one step further. We bring unique and local programs already serving Veterans together to form a network able to address any challenge a Veteran may face. This is network is called the South Carolina Veteran Coalition, and part of our mission involves connecting with and inviting new partners into the coalition.

Tito Vazquez, Upstate Pathfinder Manager with the South Carolina Department of Veterans’ Affairs (SCDVA), recently visited Guiding Reins at Royal Oaks Equestrian Center in Greer, South Carolina, to learn more about its equine-assisted wellness programs and the support they provide to those who have served and their families. equine therapy participants walking on dirt path near the wooden fence of a pasture

Guiding Reins, led by Founder and Executive Director Diane Prewitt, offers an environment where veterans, active-duty service members, first responders, and military families can participate in experiences designed to encourage emotional awareness, communication, confidence, trust, and personal growth.

During the visit, Vazquez had the opportunity to observe a session and meet three of the program's participants: Jasmine, Christy, and Dan. Each participant represented a different group the organization serves, Veterans, first responders, and their family members. Although each participant brought a different life experience, they shared an opportunity to develop meaningful connections through interactions with the horses.

Unlike traditional classroom instruction, equine-assisted activities encourage participants to become more aware of their body language, emotions, communication styles, and responses to challenges. Horses respond to their surroundings and human interactions, creating opportunities for participants to reflect on patience, trust, leadership, and self-awareness. That's what makes equine therapy more than just spending time around horses. There is evidenced-based research demonstrating the positive impacts of this specific modality of therapy.

For Vazquez, the visit reinforced the importance of identifying community-based resources that support Veterans beyond traditional benefits and services.

"One of the most rewarding parts of my position is getting out into our communities, meeting the people behind these organizations, and understanding the resources available to those we serve," Vazquez shared. "When we take the time to experience these programs firsthand, we become better equipped to connect Veterans and their families with organizations that can make a meaningful difference in their lives."

The Palmetto Pathfinder Program, a peer-to-peer Veteran program, focuses on building connections between Veterans and community resources, helping individuals navigate available support while strengthening relationships across South Carolina.

Visits to organizations such as Guiding Reins provide opportunities to expand resource awareness, develop partnerships, and better understand the different approaches available to support Veteran and family well-being.

Therapy participant putting bridle on horse in pasture filled with lush grass Vazquez also expressed appreciation to Diane Prewitt and the team at Royal Oaks Equestrian Center for welcoming him and providing an opportunity to observe their work.

"Sometimes healing begins with a conversation. Sometimes growth begins with trust. And sometimes, both begin by simply standing beside a horse," Prewitt said.

Through continued community engagement, SCDVA remains committed to strengthening relationships with organizations across the state that support Veterans, service members, and their families.

More Information About Guiding Reins

Guiding Reins provides equine-assisted wellness experiences supporting veterans, military service members, first responders, and their families. Its programs emphasize personal connection, self-awareness, communication, and resilience through structured interactions with horses.

To learn more about Guiding Reins and its programs, visit www.guidingreins.org.

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