Yucca horse farm assists Havasu youth affected by trauma

Nelson fondly remembers relieving anxiety through horses on her grandparents' farm in her upbringing. These interactions alleviated the trauma she experienced, she recalled.

"My horse was very liberating and freeing to me," Nelson said. "I knew that when I was there riding my horse, I wasn't going to get beat. I wasn't going to get verbally abused because I was at my grandma's house, and I was on that farm."

Before her retirement, Nelson worked as a special education teacher. Her liking of animals followed throughout her career. Past instances allowed Nelson to bring in animals to comfort students. She gives an example of a student who held a puppy while stepping outside for recess. The child, worried about being seen by other students, could go outdoors with his animal companion.

Unfortunately, Nelson witnessed the changes in the educational system following Covid. She describes the transformation seen in students returning to school. Referring to that period as "rough," Nelson decided to retire.

In doing so, Nelson and her husband, Trevor, found horses and land of their own. The pair began shifting their focus on finding a small farm in Yucca. Nelson later discovered another individual who was pursuing a similar therapy approach.

"I decided that this would benefit kids who need it," Nelson continued. "So, I got myself certified, and I've been doing it since."

Clients range in age from 8 and up. Nelson said youth living in Lake Havasu City are among her frequent visitors. She provides families an alternative therapy solution by opening her property to local children.

Maintaining a focus on youth affected by trauma gives clients an advantage. Nelson explains how her services are free for youth who endure trauma of any kind.

From verbal abuse to bullying, Nelson works with youth regardless of the severity of their individual experiences. The use of client-led sessions gives youth the option to stay as long as they like. Nelson says past clients have participated in sessions lasting up to three hours.

Nelson observes teenage clients' behaviors and reassures the session's confidentiality. Her position as a mandated reporter requires her to forego that confidentiality under particular circumstances. Nelson shares that if a client mentions committing suicide, she must report it.

"If you give them the space, then it's easier for them to talk," Nelson said of working with teenage clients. "There's (the) trauma of losing your caregiver. There's trauma (in) being a foster kid. If they have trauma and feel it's trauma, I'm not going to deny them."

Several horses and other animals, such as goats and a calf, accompany Nelson's property. She says that clients can interact with any animal at their own pace.

Nelson often makes adjustments to fit the schedules of attending youth. Her flexibility creates an open atmosphere for youth and their parents. Families must provide transportation, but Nelson says parents are welcome to wait.

"We're just starting to develop or think about making plans to expand the small blueprint we have at the main property," Nelson said. "It's rustic. We're having fun doing it on donations."

To contact Pam Nelson for equine-facilitated therapy services, call 928-200-6256.