About A Stable Learning, LLC

I noticed that no matter how the day's events have been, once I was around the horses, the stress was lifted off of me. This was the genesis of Stable Learning. Horses have been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries. Equine-assisted interventions, such as horse therapy, hippotherapy, and equine-facilitated learning, are activities that involve interaction with horses to promote emotional growth, improve physical and mental well-being, and develop life skills. Horses are social and intuitive animals, and they can pick up on human emotions and respond accordingly. Horses are also non-judgmental and offer a sense of calm and comfort to individuals who may be struggling with mental health issues or physical disabilities. Equine-assisted interventions are effective in treating a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and autism spectrum disorders, among others.  A Stable Learning, LLC has been dedicated to providing quality equine-facilitated learning interventions to those with special needs and the youth from the Rio Grande Valley. We started with providing services for special population

• Pamela Garrett, Director.  Pamela has more than 30 years of experience working with horses. Pamela has earned the  Animal-Assisted Intervention Specialist  (C-AAIS) certification from The Association of Animal-Assisted Intervention Professionals. She also holds a Master's degree in educational administration and a Bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies. After teaching in public schools for 14 years, she recognized the need for personalized interventions that address the root causes of mental health issues. Pamela leverages her deep understanding of animal behavior and child development to pioneer a holistic approach to child and adolescent behavior. She uses her expertise to foster greater awareness of mental health. Currently, she shares her wisdom through adult continuing education courses.  

• Raul Garcia is a retired U.S. Marine who has earned a B.S. in Psychology and an M.Ed. in Educational Psychology, and is currently certified as an Equine Facilitated Learning Level-I facilitator through the Human Equine Relational Development Institute (H.E.R.D. Institute). He is passionate about horses, behavior, and research. Raul is responsible for ensuring our interventions are data-driven, tracking client progress, and testing and developing new interventions that effectively address the client's needs.

• Jodie Stryker is a dedicated educator with over three decades in the field of education. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in English, with a minor in psychology, and a Master's Degree in Educational Technology. Passionate about her work with horses, Jodie firmly believes in the profound healing potential that horses offer to individuals facing various challenges.

• Melody Cantu holds a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science with a concentration in Occupational Therapy, in pursuit of a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Melody has also earned the Personal Trainer Certification from The National Academy of Sports Medicine.  Her future career goal is to work with the Equine Special Olympics. Melody is an accomplished equine professional who has been actively competing in equine sports. 

• Duane Stryker holds a Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science from San Angelo State University. After a long, honorable federal service, Duane decided to retire. However, retirement did not signal a departure from purpose; rather, it marked the beginning of a new chapter. Duane has redirected his passion to helping others through animal-facilitated activities, incorporating his understanding of animal science to contribute to the well-being of others.

• Adele Salinas is a dedicated educator with over 11 years of experience. She holds a Bachelor's degree in ICT and education, and is also certified in Special Educational Needs and Children and Young People's Mental Health, thus allowing her to create safe and inclusive environments for learning and well-being. Adele has over 20 years of experience working with horses in and out of the competitive environment, and strongly believes in the healing nature of these animals and the life lessons they offer.

• Pauline Fitzgerald's journey with horses began at the age of five when the family moved to Equestrian Ridge and welcomed a quarter horse named Seek-a-Change, or "Seeka" as they called him. Seeka became her companion and teacher, instilling lessons of patience, consistency, and the importance of showing up every day. These values guide her work today, and she is very excited and committed to sharing her experiences and life lessons with others through equine facilitated interventions. As a former broadcast journalist and current Equine facilitator at A Stable Learning, Pauline combines her love for horses and her commitment to uplifting others by fostering confidence and resilience in children, adolescents, and adults alike. Additionally, as a Registered Yoga Instructor (200hr), she explores the synergy between yoga and horsemanship, encouraging mindfulness and deeper connections between body, mind, and spirit. Pauline aims to create a transformative "Seek-a-Change" moment for every young person she works with.