Tara Mahoney graduated from Boston College studying Neuroscience. She holds a Master’s in Counseling with concentrations in Forensic Psychology and Veteran’s Behavioral Health. Since 1996, Tara has counseled in diverse settings including a correctional facility, NYC homeless shelter for Veterans, in-patient psychiatric hospital, Vet Centers, Family Drug Court, DBT Out-Patient Clinic and private practice.
For the past 10 years, Tara has combined her professional calling with her lifetime passion for horses. Providing opportunities for service members and those who support them to connect through EIP has been the highlight of her career.
She has focused her education, experience and energy into the field of equine assisted services and has presented nationally and internationally regarding the tremendous benefits and outcomes.
Certifications and Boards Include:
Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Int’l):
Horses & Humans Research Foundation:
Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA)
Wilderness Remote First Aid Certified
Equine Specialist & Blue Star Mom
Kelly is a gifted horsewoman who empowers and supports Veterans, Service Members and their families with an open heart and open mind. She understands the importance of advocacy as she has walked alongside many wounded warriors and families on their healing journey.
Equine Specialist
Paul Martinez deployed 6 times to Afghanistan as a member of the 75th Ranger Regiment, and is the author of “When the Killer Man Comes”; an account of his combat experience as a Ranger Sniper. Paul is passionate about telling the untold stories of the Global War on Terrorism, Veteran advocacy, and equine therapy for service members transitioning to civilian life.
Ryan is a USMC Veteran with combat tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. With degrees in Psychology, Sociology, and Biblical studies as well as over 20 years of outdoor recreational therapy/experiential learning, he brings unique talent and insight to EIP. Ryan has a passion and desire to help others get where they want to be. He has worked for and with various organizations across the United States and abroad that specialize in military, military families, first responders and students. He is a proud husband, father of two daughters and two dogs.
“It has been an honor to witness the transformative power that horses have on our military/families/first responders. It is life changing, often life saving and always unforgettable.”
Jenny’s natural leadership is apparent from the moment you meet her- whether watching her interact with horses or having a conversation with her while getting ready to ride her horse. Her knowledge, insight and humility bring so much to every session. She is respected throughout New Hampshire for her contributions to the equine community (NH Horse Council), land conservation/agricultural efforts (Candia Agricultural Commission) and Veteran Service Organizations. After a successful career in the telecommunications industry, she has now committed herself to facilitating Equine Assisted Services to Veterans and their supports struggling with Invisible Wounds of War. Be sure to ask her about her role as Superintendent and Creator of the Deerfield Fair Women’s Fry Pan Toss!
Justin Grant served in the US Army’s Special Operations for 10 years as a Special Operations Combat Medic (SOCM). Justin deployed eight times, once to Iraq and seven times to Afghanistan. On one deployment he and another person were injured, Justin ignored his wounds to tend to his comrade.
Following his retirement Justin worked as a Paramedic, supervising an EMS system that encompassed
8.6% of the state of Maine (roughly the size of Delaware).
“I did not transition well from the military, trying numerous traditional therapies, and eventually began
equine-assisted therapy as an alternative therapy. I always wanted to help others, and I thought the only way I could do that was by putting people back together, physically. Now I know I can help in another way, by putting people back together emotionally and spiritually. I believe in it so much that I am pursuing a graduate level education in Clinical Psychology, focusing on Animal Assisted Therapies at University of
Husson.”
Lana brings a dearth of expertise in riding and horsemanship to EIP having been in the saddle since she
was 5. Like any classic “horse girl” she is all horses, all day- except when she is working as a Physician’s Assistant in eastern Maine. She grew up in a large military family and understands the struggles and pride of being a Blue Star family member.
Lana and Justin live together in Maine where they are currently creating a riding property in hopes of holding events for EIP in the years to come.
Executive Assistant & Equine Specialist
Linda has recently combined her love of horses and commitment to support Veterans. She is a contributor and valued team member who brings energy and laughter to her every role.
Equine Specialist
Pam Falkins is a lifelong horsewoman riding since the age of 8 and currently the owner of Renaissance Farm Center for the Equestrian Arts. Pam shares her passion and professional expertise with her students- teaching dressage and vaulting. Equestrian Vaulting is dance and gymnastics on the back of a moving horse (yup- gymnastics on a moving horse!) which helps with confidence, balance, and self-esteem. She is proud to have served in the Army for 6 years and has an incredible way to empower, motivate, and inspire.
Equine Specialist
Sam shares her time and talent (and massive 2,200-pound horse) with EIP ground driving. As a farrier throughout New England, she keeps horses’ hooves healthy. Sam competes at local fairs in pulling and obstacle courses with her draft horses. When Sam is not working with EIP, shoeing or competing, she provides wagon rides and wedding carriage rides as well as working her family farm logging, haying fields and plowing with her horses. Her energy and enthusiasm are remarkable!
Equine Specialist
Scott works with EIP as a way for him to give back to our veterans that have given so much for this
country. “Our veterans have served and sacrificed for this great nation, and I am honored to work with
them as part of EIP.” He loves working with people and horses and believes we can learn so much about
ourselves and others while working with these animals.”
Equine Specialist
Victoria Plumpton completed her massage therapy certificate at the Downeast School of Massage in 2003. She specializes in Trauma, Oncology massage, sports, Reiki, mind/body, deep tissue, and animal massage. She has helped develop the Horse and Human Energy Session with EIP to incorporate mindfulness and sensory grounding techniques while massaging equines with incredible healing results. Victoria enjoys educating clients on the importance of keeping the mind-body connection healthy. In her free time she enjoys traveling, making jewelry, spending time with family and all outdoor activities.
Leigh Nichols served in the US Air Force from 1989 to 1993 as a Jet Engine Mechanic on the F-15’s and was a Services Craftsman (food service, lodging, MWR & mortuary) in the New Hampshire Air National Guard from 1993-1994 & 1996-2012. Leigh retired as a Technical Sergeant.
Our hearts are saddened by his loss as Leigh brought an open heart, unique perspective, and laughter to every EIP event. His connection with horses brought him much peace and joy- we are grateful to our four-legged teammates for loving him as deeply and dearly as all of us.
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