In this 34th podcast episode of season 2, Jenny interviews Karol Santistevan OTR/L , CTRI, ESMHL. Karol is an extraordinary occupational therapist focused on mental health and well-being. She utilizes therapy animals in many of her sessions with clients and offers both individual sessions and group programs. Karol is the founder of Ropes & Roses Therapy Services, located on 36 acres with her many therapy animals on the scenic outskirts of Casper, Wyoming. Karol's journey began in the Black Hills of South Dakota, where she discovered her passion for horses at just six months old. Growing up in the world of rodeo, she developed a deep understanding of the equine realm as her first job involved warming up and cooling down pick-up horses.
Karol's dedication to her craft led her to achieve numerous certifications, including becoming a certified Special Olympics Equestrian Coach. Additionally, she obtained Level 2 Western & English Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) Instructor certification and became a PATH Int’l Registered Level Instructor. That same year, Karol co-founded Reach 4A Star Riding Academy, a distinguished therapeutic riding center where she served as the executive director.
Recognized for her exceptional skills, Karol was honored with the prestigious PATH Int’l Region 10 Instructor of the Year award. Inspired by the positive impact she had on her students and colleagues, Karol pursued further education and completed a Master's of Occupational Therapy program through the University of North Dakota. In 2023, she achieved accreditation as a DIRFloortime® Practitioner through the International Council on Development and Learning (ICDL).
Karol's unique blend of knowledge, experience, and her holistic, nature-based approach allows her to forge deep connections with her patients. By returning to the core principles of occupational therapy, she creates a strong bond between herself, her clients, and the therapeutic power of horses. Her close ties with the mental health community enable her to provide comprehensive wraparound services that truly cater to the community's needs.
In addition to her clinical work, Karol also shares her wisdom and expertise as an adjunct professor at Casper College. She takes great pride in teaching and mentoring students pursuing careers in occupational therapy, social work, addiction studies, nursing, education & counseling. Karol's approach, rooted in the natural beauty of Wyoming, offers her clients an authentic and holistic path to self-discovery.
We are delighted to have Karol Santistevan with us on this podcast, as she shares her profound insights and experiences as an occupational therapist dedicated to improving mental health and well-being.
This is the suicide prevention podcast "Safe Talk" with Jenny Hunter and Billy Floyd where there are no judgements and talk saves lives.
Jenny is the founder of J.R.'s Hunt; For Life, a suicide prevention non-profit movement offering hope and support globally.
Billy Floyd is a podcast host, media broadcaster and positive influencer. "Sounds of Soul" Music used with permission by Fearless Motivation.
This podcast is produced by Angel Mountain Media.
“We can talk about it! We can get it out in the open. We can try to understand it. We can be there for each other. We can save lives!”~ Jenny Hunter, Founder-J.R.’s Hunt; for Life