Supporting Veterans and those who've served
" Where do we start " - presentation
Don’t start with the veteran’s diagnosis or with a task. Start with the person, creating felt safe enough opportunities for presence, and giving them an opportunity to experience themselves differently — alongside the horse, without having to perform. Embodied regulation supporting presence.
We don't task the horse, so we don't task the Veteran. All experiences are ground based, at liberty or with haltering as a connection cord, not a tasking agent. For presentation references and resources, click here.
This presentation was made at the Equine Assisted Therapy Australia Conference in 2026. For more information, please contact sarah@solaceandsanctuary.org
" The Wayfinding Project " - in development
First we start with untasked presence, then the Veteran can move to more structured activities or interventions to support them in exploring their self in action.
This pilot is in development. For more information, email sarah@solaceandsanctuary.org.
Military Cultural Competence Training
Open Arms (Australia's leading provider of free, confidential 24/7 mental health assessment and clinical counselling services for Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel, veterans, and their families)
: Professional Development Military Awareness - HERE
Phoenix Australia (The Australian National Centre of Excellence in Posttraumatic Mental Health)
: Veteran Cultural Competency - HERE
The Whole Person - Veteran Framework - a conceptual biopsychosocial spiritual model
This image is provided as a suggestive image of the many layers to the Veteran experience. It should not guide any medical or treatment approaches, it merely offers an overview perspective of the Veteran's possible presentations and mix of system, relational, financial and recovery supports.
This artwork is not an official or endorsed image. The creator accepts no liability for any outcomes, decisions, or actions taken based on the use or interpretation of this material. The image is not to be reused or altered in any form without owner permission.
Professional & Educational Disclaimer
This resource is an original visual adaptation inspired by the Polyvagal Theory and related educational models. It is intended for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute therapeutic advice, clinical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment.
While created by a qualified counsellor, this material is not a substitute for professional mental health support. Individuals and organisations using this resource are responsible for ensuring its application is appropriate to their specific context and for seeking independent professional advice where required. This artwork is not an official or endorsed representation of Polyvagal Theory or the work of its originators. Any interpretation or adaptation presented is the sole responsibility of the creator. The creator accepts no liability for any outcomes, decisions, or actions taken based on the use or interpretation of this material.
Copyright & Usage
Copyright remains with the creator. Purchase grants a limited, non-exclusive license for agreed commercial use (including printing and distribution) as specified at the time of sale. The artwork may not be altered, reproduced beyond agreed terms, resold, sublicensed, or distributed in its original digital form without prior written consent. The creator retains the right to display the work for portfolio and promotional purposes unless otherwise agreed.
