Address
P O Box 505 Scranton PA 18501Phone
570-937-9399Hours
7 days a week as neededContact
April Loposky-program director Kathy Bell - Event director Tara Iona - Volunteer CoordinatorDescription
Marley’s Mission is a non-profit organization that provides equine-based therapy free of charge to children, and their families, who have experienced trauma. Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) has shown evidenced-based efficacy in patients who have experience abuse and now suffer with depression, anxiety and other symptoms as a result of abuse. Research and observational findings have shown EAP yields a variety of psychotherapeutic benefits such as: confidence; self-efficacy; self-concept; communication; anxiety reduction, and most importantly… trust. Marley’s Mission currently has seven horses as well as the use of stables and fields in Lake Ariel, PA. Marley’s Mission employs a team approach to healing children who have experienced trauma. The treatment team includes a specially trained Trauma Therapist and an Equine Specialist. The treatment team has been educated in the internationally recognized Equine-Assisted Therapy Model (EAP) developed by the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA). Although most children who visit Marley’s Mission will, when ready, saddle up and ride a horse led by an Equine Specialist, Marley’s Mission does not require children to ride or have previous experience with horses. The primary focus of Marley’s Mission is to assist in healing. Student volunteers may also assist by helping at clean ups, holiday events, art and music, barn chores, events, projects, and possible internships