Dana has a Master of Science in Educational Counseling from Monmouth University and a Bachelor of Science in Equine Studies from Centenary University. She is a Licensed School Counselor in the state of NJ, holds a CEAS as a Student Assistance Coordinator, and is a Licensed Associate Counselor in the Integrated Adolescence Program. Dana’s early career as an equine professional involved teaching clients of all ages how to ride and care for horses, develop young horses for sport and pleasure riding, and rehabilitating and working with difficult or “problem” horses. Dana’s work with horses has given her a unique perspective on trauma informed practice. She firmly believes that every individual needs the space and patience to grow, develop, and heal at their own pace and in their own way.
Dana enjoys utilizing her authentic self, combined with a strengthened-base approach and empathetic insight to empower her clients. She has a passion for working with the adolescent population. Dana’s goal is to support her clients in a way that works for them. She enjoys helping clients on their journey to determine their own paths and assist in their development of skills to help them create a fulfilling and peaceful life.
Dana's Presentations
keynote
The Magic of Common Language
And Panel Discussion
This session champions the reality that mental health is not binary. Everyone’s mental health lives and moves on a “continuum,” or in simpler words, a “Scale” that stretches from “Thriving” to “Sinking.” The most common question asked every day is: “How are you?” Because there is no common language in mental health, the most common answers are: “Good, Fine, OK.” None of these are actual responses, nor do they help us see trends or track changes in the way we think/feel/function/perform.
This interactive workshop introduces the SameHere Scale (based on “Polyvagal,” Dr. Stephen Porges) in both hard copy and app formats. Participants will learn about the balance between our sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system responses, and how that balance can be compromised. They will learn about movement on the SameHere Scale – and how someone’s Scale “position” can be discovered based on their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors they are experiencing. Attendees will walk away with a common language to do check-ins with patients, clients, students or whomever attendees do their clinical and/or advocacy work with.
A panel discussion will examine how this language can be brought into various integrative modalities.
A Collaboration of Spoken and Unspoken Connection and Healing
In the realm of equine therapy, healing is not just a destination but a journey of self-awareness, growth, and transformation. It is a reminder that sometimes, the most profound connections are forged in silence, where words are unnecessary, and the heart speaks the language of empathy and compassion. Through the healing power of the equine-human bond, individuals find solace, strength, and a renewed sense of hope as they navigate the complexities of life’s challenges. Participants will explore the profound impact of equine therapy on client growth and healing.
