Why Equine Therapy Works
At Rocky Creek Youth Ranch, we serve young people who have experienced deep trauma. Traditional therapy is valuable, but many of our youth need an approach that engages the body, calms the nervous system, and rebuilds trust.
Horses provide exactly that. Their size commands respect, their sensitivity mirrors human emotions, and their non-judgmental presence helps youth practice new coping skills in real time. Clinical studies show equine assisted programs can lower anxiety, improve emotional regulation, and accelerate therapy outcomes.
T-K Ranch Equine Assisted Coaching is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Farmington, MO, founded in 2016 by Stacey Gillette, MSW, LCSW, CCTP. Stacey blends her clinical training with decades of horsemanship to deliver Equine-Focused Dialectical Behavior Therapy (EQ-DBT) - a unique model that teaches mindfulness, distress-tolerance, and emotional regulation in the arena.
Since 2023, T-K Ranch has welcomed RCYR youth to its farm for weekly sessions. Together, we have served more than 60 youth (and counting).
Our Partner: T-K Ranch Equine Assisted Coaching
A Message from Stacey Gillette, Founder
The Vision: A Barn on RCYR Campus
Right now, every session requires a 40-minute round-trip drive. Transport time limits how many kids we can serve, disrupts school schedules, and increases staffing costs.
Our next step is to build a modest barn right here on RCYR property - creating daily access to equine therapy, expanding group programming, and giving our youth a safe place to practice responsibility by helping feed and groom "their" horses.
Fundraising Goal: $100,000
Raised So Far: $17,000 - thanks to last year's gala: Galloping Towards Change.
2nd Annual Gala - August 9th, 2025
Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 9th, 2025 at 6PM at Wild Coyote Ranch in Park Hills, MO. Our 2nd Annual Gala: Galloping Towards Change will feature dinner and drinks, entertainment, a silent auction, and impact stories from youth whose lives have been changed through horses. All proceeds move us closer to breaking ground on the barn.
Interested in attending or becoming a sponsor? Use the form below to learn more, purchase tickets, and purchase sponsorships.
Feel more comfortable purchasing tickets in person? Interested in supporting our silent auction?
Please reach out to Stacey Gillette at (573) 747-9115 or stacey@rcranch.org. Arrangements for auction item donations can be made at your convenience.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to partner with us in making a lasting impact.
Did you know?
Rocky Creek Youth Ranch and T-K Ranch Equine Assisted Coaching are both IRS-designated 501(c)(3) nonprofits.
When you buy gala tickets, donate to the silent auction, or make a monetary gift, you'll receive a donation receipt. Your contribution is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law - simply keep the receipt for your records.
Learn More About T-K Ranch
Curious about the equine-assisted coaching that's changing our youths' lives?
By clicking the button below, you can meet the herd, explore Stacey Gillette's therapy model, and see impact stories beyond RCYR.