November, 2009 — In This Issue:
Letter from the Founder | Mirasol's New IOP | Equine Therapy

Dear Friends,

It seems like forever since I've written! I have witnessed the arrival of my third new granddaughter, MaileLeilani. She is simply beautiful, I'm proud to say — all 6½ pounds of her!

I have also been informed by my son and daughter-in-law that the words "fat" and "diet" have been banned from their house! I'm so glad that they're committed as a family to raising girls without eating or body image issues.

This month's newsletter is a particularly wonderful one! Maeve's description of the equine therapy process is so powerful. I can literally feel her emotions as she tells us about her experience. The adventure weekend which includes camping and equine therapy is an unforgettable experience for all of our patients. Therapists go camping, counseling assistants, and of course our fabulous, 5-Star chef, Robert. I hope you enjoy this story as much as I did.

Warmly,
Jeanne Rust, PhD

Mirasol's New Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Mirasol's Eating Disorders IOP is a new outpatient program in Tucson, Arizona, for individuals who are struggling with anorexia, bulimia or compulsive eating. This intensive outpatient program is based on the latest research in effective, short-term treatment for eating disorders. Our integrative combines dialectical behavioral therapy to teach mindfulness, effectiveness, and emotional modulation, with experiential therapies proven effective in the treatment of chronic stress-related conditions. The program meets three times a week on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evening from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. Each session is 12 weeks in length, and our open enrollment policy means we can accommodate new clients when they need support, regardless of time of year. For more information, visit Mirasol's web site or call our toll-free admissions line at 888.520.1700.

"It Started With Pop Tarts"

A new book by award-winning author Lori Hanson shares the intimate details of her life of obsession with food and body image, and how she discovered an alternative non-medical approach to winning the battle of bulimia. Follow the "Hot Pastry Principles for Healing and Balance", release your negative thoughts and behaviors, and learn how to live life and love yourself. Purchase this book by November 19 as either a paperback or downloadable audio book and get a boatload of free holiday gifts.

My First Experience with Equine Therapy

Mirasol's offers multi-day camping trips about six times per year, and recently we've begun combining adventure-based therapy with equine therapy. Maeve Shaughnessy, one of Mirasol Counseling Assistants, recounts her surprising first experience with equine therapy during a recent camping trip in Arizona's Chiricahua National Monument.

By Maeve Shaughnessy

I have always loved camping and hiking, so when I was asked to go along for work, I jumped at the opportunity. My job as a "CA" at Mirasol is to provide support to our clients, so as I drove the van to our campsite in the Chiricahua Mountains, I was focused on being present for them and helping them through any emotions that might arise during the weekend.

I knew that part of the weekend included equine therapy using horses belonging to Dr. Diane, Mirasol's acupuncturist. But honestly, until that moment, I had never given it much thought. We soon gathered around the horses and reviewed the safety precautions and procedures. I found myself at the back of the group suddenly feeling a little nervous. Since I have no experience with horses, I didn't understand why I would feel anxious.

However, as I watched each client approach the horse, I noticed that the horse was highly perceptive, acting as a mirror for the client's emotions. Some clients felt calm and confident approaching the horse, and the horse reflected these feelings by allowing the client to brush him, clean his hooves and hug him.

I was encouraged to participate, but the horse immediately reflected my anxiety as I timidly walked toward him. I held out my hand, waiting for him to come closer, but he demurred. Tears welled in my eyes and my stomach was tied in knots. I was told this was enough for now, and I felt very relieved as I walked away.

The next 24 hours were filled with team-building activities, journaling, delicious food, and relaxing around an evening campfire. But I continued to ponder my emotional response to the horse. The following day, Dr. Diane suggested I try again with the horse. This time, the goal was to lead the horse around in a circle. Just imagining this simple activity filled me with fear. After 45 minutes of timid commands, aimless direction, tears, anger, and frustration, I began to understand the power of my self-defeating thoughts. I had no confidence in my ability to lead the horse, and the horse fed right into those beliefs. The moment I began visualizing my actions and believing I had control, I found the confidence to complete the goal.

Equine therapy is one of many experiential therapies that Mirasol uses to help its clients achieve emotional growth and healing. My personal experience with equine therapy was very empowering. The direct interaction with the horse helped me understand how I behave in the world and what emotional responses and behaviors I use as coping mechanisms. Horses are sensitive creatures, and their innate ability to pick up on emotions and intentions resulted in a unique and insightful "counseling session".

Mirasol, the Spanish name for sunflower, means "looking at the sun." In dreams, the sunflower is a symbol of spiritual joy.

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