My name is Randi Belliveau. I am the human facilitator of Guiding Light Wellness. I have developed my knowledge and skills through my 10 years working as a Youth Care Worker. While supporting at risk youth dealing with trauma, addictions and family conflict through building healthy relationships, teaching healthy coping strategies and emotional regulation.
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In addition to my Youth Care Work I completed my Practical Nursing Diploma in 2017. I travelled to Kampala, Uganda to complete my final practicum. This was a very humbling experience and has given me a new perspective on the world. Once returning to Canada my passion for holistic care was amplified.
Through my work in the nursing field I have developed my leadership skills, care planning and skills in holistic care. The traditional nursing role did not seem to fit for me.
So I began my journey with Equine Facilitated Wellness. I began my training in Alberta at Healing Hooves in 2018. Over the years I have completed the 4 training sessions necessary and am working towards completing my certification package with EFW Canada.
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Equine Facilitated Wellness Canada is built on the shared belief that animals are sentient beings and have thoughts and feelings that deserve to be honoured. My training at Healing Hooves is grounded in the developmental and attachment theory based paradigm of Dr. Gordon Neufeld.
Dr. Neufeld's theory focuses on building context and working one step removed from emotions that may be too tender to touch directly. It fosters personal exploration and growth through offering grace, space and unconditional positive regard. My combination of education, skills and work experience, paired with my own personal life journey allows me to offer this unique opportunity to others.
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RANDI
TONY
Tony is the eldest of the donkeys at 13 years old. He is very laid back and friendly. He moves at a slower pace, which can be very calming. He is equal parts wise and goofy.
He enjoys grooming, eating grass, butt scratches and just being around people. One thing I have learned from Tony is to open my heart and try new things. He is a role model of aging with grace!
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RUBY
Ruby is the only female donkey in the pack. She is 7 years old. She is the most independent of the donkeys. She is simultaneously brave and cautious. She needs to think things through before she does them.
She is very smart and has deciphered all the toys she comes in contact with. She is also Willy’s mom! Watching her be carefree in the arena is pure joy! Through my time with Ruby I have learned patience.
WILLY
Willy is the “baby” of the pack at 4 years old. I have had him since he was 6 months old and call him my “wild child.” He is a playful ball of energy. He is curious of his surroundings and has become an escape artist over the years, finding ways to get out and eat grass.
He enjoys ear scratches, treat balls and running with abandon in the arena. When we all walk together he has become a leader in that aspect. Through working with Willy I have learned to just have fun!
“A healer does not heal. A healer is someone who holds space for you to awaken your inner healer, so that you may heal yourself.”
-Maryam Hasnaa
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Donkeys are not small horses (They differ in physiology, communication, thinking and behaviour. They do best with other donkeys as companions).
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Donkeys do not like wet weather as their coats are not waterproof.
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Donkeys have a calming effect on other animals.
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Donkeys are not stubborn, but can be reluctant to do anything that might be unsafe. They consider situations before deciding what to do.
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Donkeys are very sociable and form strong bonds. You will often see pairs of best friends within a herd. They can become ill if separated from their companions. (Tony and Ruby are a bonded pair).
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Donkeys can see all 4 feet at once.
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Donkeys can learn and problem solve at the same pace as dolphins and dogs.
DONKEY FACTS
1) Offer a non-judgmental ear and unconditional acceptance
2) Have been linked to lowering blood pressure and cortisol levels
3) Reduce loneliness, stress, anxiety & mood boost
4) Invite you to be exactly as you are
ANIMALS IN GENERAL
“We are all a little broken. That's how the light gets in.”
-Authour Unknown