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MoonRise Therapeutics, located in Woodstock, Vermont, was founded in 2017 by a dedicated team of mental health professionals and horse specialists who shared a vision of compassionate, nature-connected care.
The mission at MoonRise is to nurture the well-being of individuals and families through therapeutic and educational experiences. The staff there is dedicated to delivering high-quality mental health services through horse-assisted therapy that are accessible to everyone in the community. They promote healing and emotional well-being by fostering connection, growth, and resilience in children, families, veterans, and individuals facing trauma, anxiety, and life transitions.
Some of the programs offered at MoonRise include individual and family therapy, veterans’ support groups, and Circle of Security Parenting (COSP), an evidence-based and relationship-centered program designed to strengthen attachment and emotional connection between parents and children. These programs have impacted many. One veteran participant said, “I’ve tried a lot of therapy, but nothing touched me like this. The horses helped me let my guard down in a way I didn’t think was possible.” Connecting therapy to animals is a unique method and that, along with a deeply compassionate support system, is what sets MoonRise apart.
Laura Perez, Operations Director, acknowledges that much of the organization’s success would not be possible without support from sponsors. Mascoma Bank was the first to fund MoonRise seven years ago. “Mascoma is more than just a bank. If we have a question, want advice, or a new process is needed, the team at Mascoma is an incredible asset for us. It’s truly the little things, like having someone from Mascoma sit in on our finance meeting to answer questions and give insight. The community focus at Mascoma is incredibly important, and the expertise has been super helpful.”
Mascoma Bank wishes MoonRise Therapeutics further success in helping others and is proud to support the organization in its programming.