Dr. Elia Antonia’s journey with the Animal Behavior Institute (ABI) has been a positive and engaging experience. With a background in special education, English language teaching, and faith-based counseling, Elia sought to deepen her understanding of animal behavior in the context of therapeutic interventions. Her story with ABI is one of enthusiasm, growth, and purposeful application.
Through ABI’s comprehensive curriculum, she gained practical and theoretical knowledge in equine behavior and management. However, it was the Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies course that truly helped her integrate equine herd behavior and dynamics into her counseling sessions and field visitations.
Completing her field experience was a hands-on endeavor for Elia. Volunteering with a non-profit organization and therapy ponies, she assisted weekly and engaged with diverse communities, from elementary schools supporting special needs students to long-term care facilities. These experiences not only enriched her understanding of equine-assisted therapy but also reaffirmed her belief in the profound impact of animal-human interactions on well-being. Since graduating from ABI, Elia has enrolled in their Animal Assisted Interventions course to aid in training her new therapy, Border Collie, Stretch! for community work. Drawing from her education, ABI courses, and her background in counseling, she is in the process of designing her equine therapy farm for school-age populations and adult individuals with memory disorders. Through this endeavor, she aims to create a sanctuary where hope turns a dream into reality, where the healing power of animals facilitates connection and growth.
Reflecting on her journey with ABI, Elia recommends the institute to others who share her pursuit of animal presence and human interaction, regardless of their expertise level, be it as an established clinician or a novice in animal behavior.
Additionally, Elia completed all requirements to become a Certified Equine Interaction Professional-Educator (CEIP-E) through ABI, further enhancing her expertise in the field.
Building on the ABI foundation, Elia just completed her EAGALA certification as a mental health practitioner enabling her to work with equines in group settings and to host training fundamentals which she is looking forward to.
To learn more about Dr. Elia and her work, email her at [email protected].