Lynn Thomas, LCSW, Co-founder/CEO of Arenas for Change (ARCH) and Co-founder/President of Horses for Mental Health 

Lynn Thomas has been in the industry of incorporating horses for mental health for over 25 years. She co-founded and developed the Eagala Model of training in 1999, playing a significant part in pioneering the growth of involving horses in mental health services globally. Then, in 2021, she cofounded two new organizations, Arenas for Change (ARCH) and Horses for Mental Health, to expand training and awareness of the impact horses can have for mental health and personal development. 

Arenas for Change (ARCH) provides a collaborative professional community and accessible online and in-person learning focused on strengthening our facilitation skillsets, increasing psychological safety, and applying a story mindset in sessions incorporating horses, animals and nature. 

Horses for Mental Health (HMH) is a nonprofit advocacy organization to increase awareness, public engagement, funds and access to programs incorporating horses for mental health and personal growth.  Through the annual Seen Through Horses campaign, started in 2022, HMH convenes philanthropists, ambassadors, companies, governments, and programs to work in collaboration expanding the role horses play in mental health and realize our collective vision of a world where all mental health needs are met – together.

Websites: www.arenasforchange.com and www.horsesformentalhealth.org