Marsh Appoints Its First Equine Counselor

Annette Herrmann Takes on New Role as Equine Counselor at The Marsh Foundation

VW Independent Staff/Submitted Information

The Marsh Foundation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to youth and family support, has appointed Annette Herrmann as its first equine counselor as part of an expanded equine program. This appointment marks a significant development in the foundation’s efforts to incorporate innovative therapeutic approaches, leveraging Herrmann’s extensive expertise accumulated over two decades in the counseling field.

Herrmann’s background is enriched with over 20 years of dedicated service at The Marsh Foundation, where she has primarily operated as a clinical supervisor. Throughout 19 of those years, she has focused on providing support to children and families, playing a pivotal role in the growth and evolution of the clinical department. In recent years, Herrmann has developed a special interest in equine-assisted learning and psychotherapy, devoting her last three years to exploring how these methods can be integrated into the foundation’s existing offerings.

Drawing upon her lifelong experience with horses, Herrmann’s transition into this new role represents a culmination of her professional interests and personal passion. “I believe leading and facilitating an equine-assisted learning program is the capstone of a career that I have loved,” Herrmann remarked, emphasizing her enthusiasm for blending her extensive equestrian knowledge with therapeutic practices. Her commitment to this innovative approach is rooted in her understanding of the profound impact horses can have on individuals, particularly in fostering personal growth and emotional healing.

Abigail Neville, the equine program coordinator, praised Herrmann for her critical contributions to the foundation’s sustainability research project, noting her initiative in identifying certification agencies and developing program curricula. Neville highlighted Herrmann’s role in merging horse programs with clinical treatment services and training new staff, all essential components in maximizing the effectiveness of the equine program for Marsh children.

Furthermore, Herrmann has successfully facilitated collaboration between the equine program and The Marsh’s foster care department, extending essential services to this vulnerable population. Her commitment aligns seamlessly with The Marsh Foundation’s mission to inspire hope and provide comprehensive care for children and families. “She exemplifies our mission to inspire hope, teach, and care,” Neville stated.

Looking ahead, Herrmann envisions a treatment program that addresses the unique needs of the community and foster care, particularly focusing on younger children. She is convinced that equine-assisted learning provides safe, supportive environments that cultivate essential skills such as problem-solving and relationship building, helping youth learn to trust again and make constructive choices.

The Marsh Foundation, located in Van Wert, Ohio, is licensed to provide services for up to 30 children on-campus and offers a wide range of support, including residential care, foster care, adoption, and independent living services. Its commitment to innovation in therapeutic practices through the introduction of equine counseling marks a transformative step in fulfilling its mission to serve at-risk youth and families effectively.