Jen Kraus, LCSW-C
I am an animal and nature lover, an avid horsewoman, and have been riding and caring for horses for over 30 years.
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I specialize in helping children and adults through various modalities, always seeing the positives and strengths in her clients. My unique approach supports clients through their journey by incorporating hands-on experiential techniques, including nature and animals. Strategies are practiced in sessions and clients are encouraged to apply skills outside of therapy to ensure practical, real-world benefits.
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Certified through Natural Lifemanship and the Equine Growth and Assisted Learning Association (EAGALA) since 2014, I hold their Military Services Individual Designation. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused theories into sessions, believing that Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy can benefit almost anyone.
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I have a passion for seeing clients grow and succeed, whether in achieving personal goals, creating positive connections with horses, learning more about themselves, or finding a safe space to de-stress. I work with individuals of all ages, priding myself on meeting people where they are, utilizing their strengths, and taking the best learning pace for each individual.
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With a lifelong passion for helping people and a love of horses, I grew up volunteering for a therapeutic riding program (Maryland Council for Special Equestrians), teaching lessons, and assisting riders in the Special Olympics. Seeing the therapeutic benefits of spending time with horses, whether interacting on the ground or on horseback, inspired me to pursue certifications in Equine Assisted Learning and Natural Lifemanship. After acting as an equine specialist for several years, I obtained my MSW from Salisbury University to become a therapist.
I have worked with individuals facing challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Alzheimer’s Disease, depression, Non-Verbal Learning Disorders, and trauma. My holistic and experiential approach fosters growth, resilience, and healing in every client.