Helping Horses Help Kids & Others

Staff

Our clinical staff consists of licensed social workers and licensed counselors.  Clinicians work closely with our highly trained equine specialists to provide clinically proven mental health and behavioral health therapy.  PBJ Connections adheres to the EAGALA model of therapy, which pairs a mental health clinician, and equine specialist and horses to facilitate change in clients with a wide variety of issues. We follow strict policies to ensure the efficacy of our treatment and the safety of our clients.  Many of our clinicians are also trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).

All employees, contractors, and volunteers who work with our clients are trained in the skills necessary to do their jobs. We follow strict policies to ensure the efficacy of our treatment and the safety of our clients. Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI&I) background checks are required for anyone working with clients.

Our Equine Specialists have over 6000 hours of hands-on horse experience and are trained in the field of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. All have undergone a BCI&I background check, are trained in CPR & First Aid, and are dedicated to improving mental health in our community.

PBJ Connections is an LBGTQ affirming organization.

Our Staff

Erica Lewis

Erica Lewis
Pronouns: She/They
Specialties: Equine Ground Work, Therapy Team Equity, Equine Specialist in EAGALA Model

Erica graduated in 2015 with a BS in Agriculture from Ohio State University and became PBJ Connections Assistant Director that same year. She is certified in the Eagala Model of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Personal Development as an Equine Specialist and is currently working towards her Advanced Certification. She has 16 years of experience working with horses and a passion for making mental health services accessible to all by lowering barriers.

Erica says, "I didn't grow up with horses, but once I discovered them I began working in local barns and taking equine focused classes to learn as much as I could. I am grateful to be sharing my passion for horses and helping people in our community improve their mental health."

As PBJ Connections Lead Equine Specialist, Erica has been focused on elevating the voices of the horses in therapy sessions and supporting communication between animals and humans in all aspects of our shared lives. She hopes for PBJ Connections to be involved in more research of equine assisted therapy as a way to help others heal beyond Central Ohio.

Professional Development: Natural Lifemanship Training Path International Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning Eagala Certified Equine Specialist since 2015 - Pending Advanced Certification The Ohio State University Young Alumni Academy 2019-2020 New Albany Chamber of Commerce - Young Professionals Founding Board Member 2018-2020
Glenda Childress

Glenda Childress has over 30 years experience in organizational management in the telecommunications industry and is an effective and creative leader. Glenda is co-founder of PBJ Connections and served as Executive Director for five years followed by six years on the Board of Directors. Currently, Glenda is PBJ Connections’ bookkeeper and management consultant. Glenda has been certified as an Equine Specialist in the Eagala Model since 2007.
Book Keeper

Glenda Childress has over 30 years experience in organizational management in the telecommunications industry and is an effective and creative leader. Glenda is co-founder of PBJ Connections and served as Executive Director for five years followed by six years on the Board of Directors. Currently, Glenda is PBJ Connections’ bookkeeper and management consultant. Glenda has been certified as an Equine Specialist in the Eagala Model since 2007.
Staff

Glenda Childress has over 30 years experience in organizational management in the telecommunications industry and is an effective and creative leader. Glenda is co-founder of PBJ Connections and served as Executive Director for five years followed by six years on the Board of Directors. Currently, Glenda is PBJ Connections’ bookkeeper and management consultant. Glenda has been certified as an Equine Specialist in the Eagala Model since 2007.
Holly Jedlicka, MSW, LISW-S

Holly Jedlicka, MSW, LISW-S
Pronouns: She/Her
Specialties: children, adolescents, and adults with mental health struggles, life changes, trauma, and relational issues. Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. Somatic Approaches.

Holly Jedlicka, MSW, LISW-S specializes in child, adolescent and family therapy as well as working with LGBTQ clients, all through a trauma-informed lens. Holly believes in a somatic approach to helping people connect their thoughts and their feelings, as well as utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy. Holly holds a bachelors degree in psychology from Otterbein University and a Masters in Social Work from The Ohio State University. She worked in community behavioral health before focusing her efforts on equine-assisted psychotherapy. She holds an Advanced EAGALA certification and is an Eagala Mentor.

Holly has worked professionally as a dressage trainer for over 30 years and has had horses her entire life. Holly believes horses are honest and that honesty calls us out on our own issues, if we listen to them. They are just reacting, not attached to the outcome and are experts at staying in the moment. This is part of what makes them powerful in therapy.

Holly is co-founder of PBJ Connections and now serves as the Executive Director. Under her leadership, she will ensure that PBJ Connections continues to grow and thrive. She has confidence in the staff at PBJ Connections and knows that we are leaders in Central Ohio in using horses professionally and therapeutically. She plans to continue to lead the way to pave a more secure path for equine-assisted psychotherapy.
Executive Director

Holly Jedlicka, MSW, LISW-S
Pronouns: She/Her
Specialties: children, adolescents, and adults with mental health struggles, life changes, trauma, and relational issues. Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. Somatic Approaches.

Holly Jedlicka, MSW, LISW-S specializes in child, adolescent and family therapy as well as working with LGBTQ clients, all through a trauma-informed lens. Holly believes in a somatic approach to helping people connect their thoughts and their feelings, as well as utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy. Holly holds a bachelors degree in psychology from Otterbein University and a Masters in Social Work from The Ohio State University. She worked in community behavioral health before focusing her efforts on equine-assisted psychotherapy. She holds an Advanced EAGALA certification and is an Eagala Mentor.

Holly has worked professionally as a dressage trainer for over 30 years and has had horses her entire life. Holly believes horses are honest and that honesty calls us out on our own issues, if we listen to them. They are just reacting, not attached to the outcome and are experts at staying in the moment. This is part of what makes them powerful in therapy.

Holly is co-founder of PBJ Connections and now serves as the Executive Director. Under her leadership, she will ensure that PBJ Connections continues to grow and thrive. She has confidence in the staff at PBJ Connections and knows that we are leaders in Central Ohio in using horses professionally and therapeutically. She plans to continue to lead the way to pave a more secure path for equine-assisted psychotherapy.
740-924-7543

Holly Jedlicka, MSW, LISW-S
Pronouns: She/Her
Specialties: children, adolescents, and adults with mental health struggles, life changes, trauma, and relational issues. Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. Somatic Approaches.

Holly Jedlicka, MSW, LISW-S specializes in child, adolescent and family therapy as well as working with LGBTQ clients, all through a trauma-informed lens. Holly believes in a somatic approach to helping people connect their thoughts and their feelings, as well as utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy. Holly holds a bachelors degree in psychology from Otterbein University and a Masters in Social Work from The Ohio State University. She worked in community behavioral health before focusing her efforts on equine-assisted psychotherapy. She holds an Advanced EAGALA certification and is an Eagala Mentor.

Holly has worked professionally as a dressage trainer for over 30 years and has had horses her entire life. Holly believes horses are honest and that honesty calls us out on our own issues, if we listen to them. They are just reacting, not attached to the outcome and are experts at staying in the moment. This is part of what makes them powerful in therapy.

Holly is co-founder of PBJ Connections and now serves as the Executive Director. Under her leadership, she will ensure that PBJ Connections continues to grow and thrive. She has confidence in the staff at PBJ Connections and knows that we are leaders in Central Ohio in using horses professionally and therapeutically. She plans to continue to lead the way to pave a more secure path for equine-assisted psychotherapy.
Joy Endrulas

Joy Endrulas
Pronouns: She/Her
Specialties: Detail Oriented and Organized

Joy comes to PBJ Connections after 30 years of office administration at the State of Ohio. As Office Manager, Joy answers the phones, processes client documents and keeps us all organized.

She first came to PBJ Connections through a wellness workshop in 2016. She fell in love with the mission of the organization and began volunteering as a horse buddy. Joy has a love for all animals but especially horses and dogs. She shares her home with her dog Ollie. Her hope for PBJ Connections is to continue to provide mental health therapy to everyone who needs it.
Office Manager

Joy Endrulas
Pronouns: She/Her
Specialties: Detail Oriented and Organized

Joy comes to PBJ Connections after 30 years of office administration at the State of Ohio. As Office Manager, Joy answers the phones, processes client documents and keeps us all organized.

She first came to PBJ Connections through a wellness workshop in 2016. She fell in love with the mission of the organization and began volunteering as a horse buddy. Joy has a love for all animals but especially horses and dogs. She shares her home with her dog Ollie. Her hope for PBJ Connections is to continue to provide mental health therapy to everyone who needs it.
Staff

Joy Endrulas
Pronouns: She/Her
Specialties: Detail Oriented and Organized

Joy comes to PBJ Connections after 30 years of office administration at the State of Ohio. As Office Manager, Joy answers the phones, processes client documents and keeps us all organized.

She first came to PBJ Connections through a wellness workshop in 2016. She fell in love with the mission of the organization and began volunteering as a horse buddy. Joy has a love for all animals but especially horses and dogs. She shares her home with her dog Ollie. Her hope for PBJ Connections is to continue to provide mental health therapy to everyone who needs it.
Nichelle Atkinson

Nichelle Atkinson
Pronouns:
Specialties:

Nichelle Atkinson graduated from The Ohio State University and has been fundraising for non-profit organizations in central Ohio for more than ten years. She shares that she was drawn to development work because she enjoys connecting extraordinary people and businesses to organizations with life-changing missions.

Nichelle came across PBJ Connections in 2018 and since then she has witnessed numerous lives being affected by just one day of experiencing the power of equine-assisted learning. One day, and the men and women she knew had the opportunity to begin their work in overcoming trauma that some had been carrying with them for a lifetime. When Nichelle learned just how vast the PBJ Connections programming was and the impact that they have had on the children, adults, and families here in central Ohio, she was thrilled for the opportunity to join the team.
Development Director

Nichelle Atkinson
Pronouns:
Specialties:

Nichelle Atkinson graduated from The Ohio State University and has been fundraising for non-profit organizations in central Ohio for more than ten years. She shares that she was drawn to development work because she enjoys connecting extraordinary people and businesses to organizations with life-changing missions.

Nichelle came across PBJ Connections in 2018 and since then she has witnessed numerous lives being affected by just one day of experiencing the power of equine-assisted learning. One day, and the men and women she knew had the opportunity to begin their work in overcoming trauma that some had been carrying with them for a lifetime. When Nichelle learned just how vast the PBJ Connections programming was and the impact that they have had on the children, adults, and families here in central Ohio, she was thrilled for the opportunity to join the team.
Staff

Nichelle Atkinson
Pronouns:
Specialties:

Nichelle Atkinson graduated from The Ohio State University and has been fundraising for non-profit organizations in central Ohio for more than ten years. She shares that she was drawn to development work because she enjoys connecting extraordinary people and businesses to organizations with life-changing missions.

Nichelle came across PBJ Connections in 2018 and since then she has witnessed numerous lives being affected by just one day of experiencing the power of equine-assisted learning. One day, and the men and women she knew had the opportunity to begin their work in overcoming trauma that some had been carrying with them for a lifetime. When Nichelle learned just how vast the PBJ Connections programming was and the impact that they have had on the children, adults, and families here in central Ohio, she was thrilled for the opportunity to join the team.

Clinical - Therapist

Anissa Kasarjian, MSW, LISW

Anissa Kasarjian, LISW
Pronouns: She/Her
Specialties: EAGALA Military Certified

Anissa has been involved with PBJ Connections since 2011, starting off as a volunteer, and joined the clinical staff in 2017.

She has worked as a social worker for over 15 years in the Central Ohio area. She received her BFA from The Ohio State University in 1995 and her MSW in 2006. Shortly after coming onto the staff at PBJ Connections she was certified in EAGALA model, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (2018) and enjoys the range of therapeutic services PBJ Connections has to offer their clients. Anissa has worked with groups, individuals and families in areas ranging from LGBTQ+, Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Expressive Arts Groups, School Groups, Substance Abuse Groups and Veterans Groups. Anissa is EAGALA Military Certified as a Mental Health Specialist and works with Veterans and their families. In the Spring of 2020 Anissa completed an Advanced Certificate from The Ohio State University in Serving Veterans and their Families. Anissa is currently working on completing an intensive trauma based certificate and continues to work with many clients and families with trauma histories.

Anissa is a firm believer in self care as a way of being, just as the horses have their way of being, and makes time for regular music lessons of the Banjo as well as daily practice of meditation and mindfulness. Anissa lives in Licking County with her partner and their pet family, including dogs, cats, donkeys & potbelly pigs.
Clinical Therapist

Anissa Kasarjian, LISW
Pronouns: She/Her
Specialties: EAGALA Military Certified

Anissa has been involved with PBJ Connections since 2011, starting off as a volunteer, and joined the clinical staff in 2017.

She has worked as a social worker for over 15 years in the Central Ohio area. She received her BFA from The Ohio State University in 1995 and her MSW in 2006. Shortly after coming onto the staff at PBJ Connections she was certified in EAGALA model, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (2018) and enjoys the range of therapeutic services PBJ Connections has to offer their clients. Anissa has worked with groups, individuals and families in areas ranging from LGBTQ+, Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Expressive Arts Groups, School Groups, Substance Abuse Groups and Veterans Groups. Anissa is EAGALA Military Certified as a Mental Health Specialist and works with Veterans and their families. In the Spring of 2020 Anissa completed an Advanced Certificate from The Ohio State University in Serving Veterans and their Families. Anissa is currently working on completing an intensive trauma based certificate and continues to work with many clients and families with trauma histories.

Anissa is a firm believer in self care as a way of being, just as the horses have their way of being, and makes time for regular music lessons of the Banjo as well as daily practice of meditation and mindfulness. Anissa lives in Licking County with her partner and their pet family, including dogs, cats, donkeys & potbelly pigs.
Cheryl Dury, LCSW, ATR

Cheryl Dury, LISW
Pronouns:
Specialties:

Cheryl has worked in the mental health field for over 20 years in various settings including inpatient psychiatric hospitals with children and adults, domestic violence center, cancer support services, outpatient mental health clinics and private practice. Cheryl joined PBJ Connections in September, 2023.

Cheryl believes that every person is unique and there is no 'one size fits all' approach to helping people. She views her role as accompanying a client on their journey, collaborating to find ways that are helpful for the client’s unique situation and tapping into the client’s inner strengths.

Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of therapeutic approaches and modalities, including person-centered, trauma-informed, humanistic, existential, play therapy, sand tray therapy, and art therapy, Cheryl tailors her methods to suit each individual's unique needs. She has a special interest in the profound impact of the art process in providing a voice to unspoken emotions and utilizes sensorimotor approaches to foster a deeper connection between individuals and their inner wisdom. Cheryl obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from The Ohio State University, a Master of Professional Studies degree in Creative Arts Therapy from Pratt Institute, a Master of Social Work degree (with Child, Family and Trauma focus) from Fordham University and a certificate in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis from Westchester Institute for Training in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis.
Clinical Therapist

Cheryl Dury, LISW
Pronouns:
Specialties:

Cheryl has worked in the mental health field for over 20 years in various settings including inpatient psychiatric hospitals with children and adults, domestic violence center, cancer support services, outpatient mental health clinics and private practice. Cheryl joined PBJ Connections in September, 2023.

Cheryl believes that every person is unique and there is no 'one size fits all' approach to helping people. She views her role as accompanying a client on their journey, collaborating to find ways that are helpful for the client’s unique situation and tapping into the client’s inner strengths.

Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of therapeutic approaches and modalities, including person-centered, trauma-informed, humanistic, existential, play therapy, sand tray therapy, and art therapy, Cheryl tailors her methods to suit each individual's unique needs. She has a special interest in the profound impact of the art process in providing a voice to unspoken emotions and utilizes sensorimotor approaches to foster a deeper connection between individuals and their inner wisdom. Cheryl obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from The Ohio State University, a Master of Professional Studies degree in Creative Arts Therapy from Pratt Institute, a Master of Social Work degree (with Child, Family and Trauma focus) from Fordham University and a certificate in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis from Westchester Institute for Training in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis.
Erin Davies, LSW, JD

Erin Davies, MSW, LISW
Pronouns: They/She
Specialties: Anxiety, Body Positivity, Caregivers, Children, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Family or Personal Conflict, Grief, Education and Learning Disabilities, Life Transitions, Peer and Romantic Relationships, School Issues, Self Esteem, Stress, Substance Use, Suicidal Ideation, Transgender/Gender Creative, Trauma/PTSD Anxiety, Body Positivity, Caregivers, Children, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Family or Personal Conflict, Grief, Education and Learning Disabilities, Life Transitions, Peer and Romantic Relationships, School Issues, Self Esteem, Stress, Substance Use, Suicidal Ideation, Transgender/Gender Creative, Trauma/PTSD

I support clients by providing a comfortable, validating, judgement-free space to talk freely about challenges and successes. I believe clients are the experts in their lives and know what works best for them. I can offer perspective, tools, and information to validate their experience and help them make changes that work for them. I have experience and enjoy working with children, adults, couples/romantic relationships, and families, particularly people struggling with the impact of trauma. I look forward to working with you!
Clinical Therapist

Erin Davies, MSW, LISW
Pronouns: They/She
Specialties: Anxiety, Body Positivity, Caregivers, Children, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Family or Personal Conflict, Grief, Education and Learning Disabilities, Life Transitions, Peer and Romantic Relationships, School Issues, Self Esteem, Stress, Substance Use, Suicidal Ideation, Transgender/Gender Creative, Trauma/PTSD Anxiety, Body Positivity, Caregivers, Children, Coping Skills, Depression, Divorce, Family or Personal Conflict, Grief, Education and Learning Disabilities, Life Transitions, Peer and Romantic Relationships, School Issues, Self Esteem, Stress, Substance Use, Suicidal Ideation, Transgender/Gender Creative, Trauma/PTSD

I support clients by providing a comfortable, validating, judgement-free space to talk freely about challenges and successes. I believe clients are the experts in their lives and know what works best for them. I can offer perspective, tools, and information to validate their experience and help them make changes that work for them. I have experience and enjoy working with children, adults, couples/romantic relationships, and families, particularly people struggling with the impact of trauma. I look forward to working with you!
Hannah Donely, LPC

Hannah Donley, LPC
Pronouns:
Specialties:

Hannah completed her bachelor's degree in animal science at The Ohio State University and her master's degree in clinical mental health counseling at Ashland Theological Seminary. She began working at PBJ Connections in 2022 as an intern and is now working as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Equine Specialist. Hannah is EAGALA certified and trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She sought a degree in counseling, knowing she would pursue work in equine therapy. She says, "horses have an undeniable way of bringing me into the present moment and encouraging my own self-awareness. They shift my focus, make me pause, and never fail to bring me joy!" She has ample experience working with young adults, but is passionate about helping people of all ages experience personal growth and self-acceptance.
Clinical Therapist

Hannah Donley, LPC
Pronouns:
Specialties:

Hannah completed her bachelor's degree in animal science at The Ohio State University and her master's degree in clinical mental health counseling at Ashland Theological Seminary. She began working at PBJ Connections in 2022 as an intern and is now working as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Equine Specialist. Hannah is EAGALA certified and trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She sought a degree in counseling, knowing she would pursue work in equine therapy. She says, "horses have an undeniable way of bringing me into the present moment and encouraging my own self-awareness. They shift my focus, make me pause, and never fail to bring me joy!" She has ample experience working with young adults, but is passionate about helping people of all ages experience personal growth and self-acceptance.
Stacia Barnes, LPCC-S

Stacia started working at PBJ Connections as a therapist in June, 2013 and has been EAGALA certified in equine-assisted psychotherapy since October, 2013. She has also been certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy since January, 2018. She provides EMDR therapy and recieved a certificate of completion in EMDR training in 2023.

Stacia has worked in the mental health field since July of 1991, when she received her Bachelor's degree from Otterbein University. She later received her master's degree from the University of Dayton in 1999, and has experience in the field of treatment foster care and adoptions, community mental health, developmental disabilities, and drug and alcohol treatment. Stacia says, "I love working at PBJ Connections for many reasons; one of the biggest reasons is that we offer a range of services, including traditional office visits, equine-assisted psychotherapy, telehealth, and even art therapy. We also offer scholarships for people who do not have health insurance or are unable to pay their insurance co-pays. Because of these things, we are able to reach and help a lot of people within our community."  Stacia's hope for PBJ Connections is that we continue to grow as an organization and at the same time remain small enough to provide personalized and individualized treatment for children and families that are in need.

Clinical Therapist

Stacia started working at PBJ Connections as a therapist in June, 2013 and has been EAGALA certified in equine-assisted psychotherapy since October, 2013. She has also been certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy since January, 2018. She provides EMDR therapy and recieved a certificate of completion in EMDR training in 2023.

Stacia has worked in the mental health field since July of 1991, when she received her Bachelor's degree from Otterbein University. She later received her master's degree from the University of Dayton in 1999, and has experience in the field of treatment foster care and adoptions, community mental health, developmental disabilities, and drug and alcohol treatment. Stacia says, "I love working at PBJ Connections for many reasons; one of the biggest reasons is that we offer a range of services, including traditional office visits, equine-assisted psychotherapy, telehealth, and even art therapy. We also offer scholarships for people who do not have health insurance or are unable to pay their insurance co-pays. Because of these things, we are able to reach and help a lot of people within our community."  Stacia's hope for PBJ Connections is that we continue to grow as an organization and at the same time remain small enough to provide personalized and individualized treatment for children and families that are in need.

Caleb Cuthbertson, MS, NCC, LMFT

Caleb Cuthbertson, MS, NCC, LMFT
Pronouns:He/Him
Specialties: Behavioral Addiction, Grief & Loss, Trauma Associated with Violent Injuries

Caleb is a PhD candidate at The Ohio State University in Human Development and Family Sciences, specializing in Couple and Family Therapy. Caleb graduated from North Carolina A&T State University with his M.S. in Rehabilitation Mental Health Counseling and certification in Behavioral Addictions. He is currently a licensed marriage and family therapist working with youth experiencing homelessness providing suicide-prevention cognitive behavioral therapy.

Caleb believes in creating space for individuals, couples, and families to heal in authenticity; be true to yourself and others. Caleb collaborates with the client(s) to support their needs and challenge them in order to elicit change through reframing thoughts and creating new behaviors and interactions.

Caleb interned at HorsePower Therapeutic Learning Center, providing equine-assisted therapeutic services to individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. Caleb is excited to merge his love for Horses and passion for mental health together through the work at PBJ Connections.
Clinical Therapist - Galena

Caleb Cuthbertson, MS, NCC, LMFT
Pronouns:He/Him
Specialties: Behavioral Addiction, Grief & Loss, Trauma Associated with Violent Injuries

Caleb is a PhD candidate at The Ohio State University in Human Development and Family Sciences, specializing in Couple and Family Therapy. Caleb graduated from North Carolina A&T State University with his M.S. in Rehabilitation Mental Health Counseling and certification in Behavioral Addictions. He is currently a licensed marriage and family therapist working with youth experiencing homelessness providing suicide-prevention cognitive behavioral therapy.

Caleb believes in creating space for individuals, couples, and families to heal in authenticity; be true to yourself and others. Caleb collaborates with the client(s) to support their needs and challenge them in order to elicit change through reframing thoughts and creating new behaviors and interactions.

Caleb interned at HorsePower Therapeutic Learning Center, providing equine-assisted therapeutic services to individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. Caleb is excited to merge his love for Horses and passion for mental health together through the work at PBJ Connections.

Equine Specialist

Allana Salmon

Allana Salman
Pronouns:
Specialties:

Claire finished her Bachelor's degree in Equine Pre-Veterinary Science from Otterbein University in May of 2023 with a minor in Equine Assisted Therapy and Activities. She didn't always know she wanted to work in the mental health field, but during her second semester of her Junior year at Otterbein she took a class with co-founder Holly Jedlicka and was first introduced to the EAGALA model where she felt the gentle pull of the practice calling her name. She got involved in PBJ Connections prior to her graduation and then never left after falling in love with the organization's mission and goals. She officially joined the team as an Equine Specialist in July that same year.

Claire hasn't been around horses her whole life, but after that Girl Scout trip in 2010 to a ranch, she has been finding new ways to involve herself with them. This includes learning as many mounted and ground disciplines as she can, helping coach Westerville's Special Olympics Equestrian Team, gentling horses, and working with her own small herd. When she isn't working with horses, she is training mobility and psychiatric service dogs for those in need. Claire hopes that more organizations will take after PBJ Connections in helping provide affordable care to individuals and helping those in need.
Equine Specialist

Allana Salman
Pronouns:
Specialties:

Claire finished her Bachelor's degree in Equine Pre-Veterinary Science from Otterbein University in May of 2023 with a minor in Equine Assisted Therapy and Activities. She didn't always know she wanted to work in the mental health field, but during her second semester of her Junior year at Otterbein she took a class with co-founder Holly Jedlicka and was first introduced to the EAGALA model where she felt the gentle pull of the practice calling her name. She got involved in PBJ Connections prior to her graduation and then never left after falling in love with the organization's mission and goals. She officially joined the team as an Equine Specialist in July that same year.

Claire hasn't been around horses her whole life, but after that Girl Scout trip in 2010 to a ranch, she has been finding new ways to involve herself with them. This includes learning as many mounted and ground disciplines as she can, helping coach Westerville's Special Olympics Equestrian Team, gentling horses, and working with her own small herd. When she isn't working with horses, she is training mobility and psychiatric service dogs for those in need. Claire hopes that more organizations will take after PBJ Connections in helping provide affordable care to individuals and helping those in need.
Claire Kivala

Claire Kivala
Pronouns:
Specialties:

Claire finished her Bachelor's degree in Equine Pre-Veterinary Science from Otterbein University in May of 2023 with a minor in Equine Assisted Therapy and Activities. She didn't always know she wanted to work in the mental health field, but during her second semester of her Junior year at Otterbein she took a class with co-founder Holly Jedlicka and was first introduced to the EAGALA model where she felt the gentle pull of the practice calling her name. She got involved in PBJ Connections prior to her graduation and then never left after falling in love with the organization's mission and goals. She officially joined the team as an Equine Specialist in July that same year.

Claire hasn't been around horses her whole life, but after that Girl Scout trip in 2010 to a ranch, she has been finding new ways to involve herself with them. This includes learning as many mounted and ground disciplines as she can, helping coach Westerville's Special Olympics Equestrian Team, gentling horses, and working with her own small herd. When she isn't working with horses, she is training mobility and psychiatric service dogs for those in need. Claire hopes that more organizations will take after PBJ Connections in helping provide affordable care to individuals and helping those in need.
Equine Specialist

Claire Kivala
Pronouns:
Specialties:

Claire finished her Bachelor's degree in Equine Pre-Veterinary Science from Otterbein University in May of 2023 with a minor in Equine Assisted Therapy and Activities. She didn't always know she wanted to work in the mental health field, but during her second semester of her Junior year at Otterbein she took a class with co-founder Holly Jedlicka and was first introduced to the EAGALA model where she felt the gentle pull of the practice calling her name. She got involved in PBJ Connections prior to her graduation and then never left after falling in love with the organization's mission and goals. She officially joined the team as an Equine Specialist in July that same year.

Claire hasn't been around horses her whole life, but after that Girl Scout trip in 2010 to a ranch, she has been finding new ways to involve herself with them. This includes learning as many mounted and ground disciplines as she can, helping coach Westerville's Special Olympics Equestrian Team, gentling horses, and working with her own small herd. When she isn't working with horses, she is training mobility and psychiatric service dogs for those in need. Claire hopes that more organizations will take after PBJ Connections in helping provide affordable care to individuals and helping those in need.
Beth Herzog

Beth Herzog
Pronouns:
Specialties:

Beth lives in Johnstown with her herd of horses and dogs, and loves to explore how bringing a mindful approach to communicating and listening can improve the quality of her interactions with people and animals. Beth has spent most of her life around horses, has been caring for her own herd at home since 2006, and has been working as an Eagala certified Equine Specialist with PBJ Connections since 2012. Beth has spent time in her career in the affordable housing industry, and has a BA in Psychology and an MBA from The Ohio State University. She spent many years teaching young children, and has deep understanding of the struggles that kids and families sometimes go through, and the power of animals to heal our wounds and help us grow.
Equine Specialist

Beth Herzog
Pronouns:
Specialties:

Beth lives in Johnstown with her herd of horses and dogs, and loves to explore how bringing a mindful approach to communicating and listening can improve the quality of her interactions with people and animals. Beth has spent most of her life around horses, has been caring for her own herd at home since 2006, and has been working as an Eagala certified Equine Specialist with PBJ Connections since 2012. Beth has spent time in her career in the affordable housing industry, and has a BA in Psychology and an MBA from The Ohio State University. She spent many years teaching young children, and has deep understanding of the struggles that kids and families sometimes go through, and the power of animals to heal our wounds and help us grow.
Julie Reiswig

Julie Reiswig
Pronouns: She/Her
Specialties: Trail riding

Julie joined the PBJ staff as an Equine Specialist in 2013 and is EAGALA certified. Julie graduated from Oberlin College with a BA in psychology, and for several years taught Special Education in central Ohio. She has a lifelong love of horses, and began systematically training once her kids were in school. She learned English riding through foxhunting, and was a member of the Central Ohio Mounted Search Unit from 2007 to 2015. Julie and her husband Jeff owned Equine Veterinary Dental Services in Newark, and she recently retired from that exciting work. Now her volunteer focus is on youth ministry and summer camp with United Church of Granville. Traveling to visit family across the country keeps her busy, but one of her goals is to again own her own equine, hopefully a mule!

Julie believes that horses have an intuition that is a perfect match for therapeutic work, and that their keen and constant perception of their environment allows them to sense human emotion and provide an honest reflection to the clients.
Equine Specialist

Julie Reiswig
Pronouns: She/Her
Specialties: Trail riding

Julie joined the PBJ staff as an Equine Specialist in 2013 and is EAGALA certified. Julie graduated from Oberlin College with a BA in psychology, and for several years taught Special Education in central Ohio. She has a lifelong love of horses, and began systematically training once her kids were in school. She learned English riding through foxhunting, and was a member of the Central Ohio Mounted Search Unit from 2007 to 2015. Julie and her husband Jeff owned Equine Veterinary Dental Services in Newark, and she recently retired from that exciting work. Now her volunteer focus is on youth ministry and summer camp with United Church of Granville. Traveling to visit family across the country keeps her busy, but one of her goals is to again own her own equine, hopefully a mule!

Julie believes that horses have an intuition that is a perfect match for therapeutic work, and that their keen and constant perception of their environment allows them to sense human emotion and provide an honest reflection to the clients.
Tim Spradlin, 1stSgt (Ret) USAF

Tim Spradlin, 1stSgt (Ret) USAF, is an EAGALA certified military equine specialist. He has over 20 years’ experience training and riding western trail horses. An Iraq combat veteran, he served 30 total years military active duty and military reserve. In his civilian career he retired from over 30 years in fire rescue and law enforcement. In 2017 Tim partnered his Finally Home Farm Military EAP program with PBJ Connections “On Mission” program to serve veterans in central Ohio. Tim currently works with Greene County Veterans Service Office in Xenia.

 
Equine Specialist

Tim Spradlin, 1stSgt (Ret) USAF, is an EAGALA certified military equine specialist. He has over 20 years’ experience training and riding western trail horses. An Iraq combat veteran, he served 30 total years military active duty and military reserve. In his civilian career he retired from over 30 years in fire rescue and law enforcement. In 2017 Tim partnered his Finally Home Farm Military EAP program with PBJ Connections “On Mission” program to serve veterans in central Ohio. Tim currently works with Greene County Veterans Service Office in Xenia.

 
Claire Kivala

Grace Shafer
Pronouns:She/Her
Specialties:

Grace is a graduating student from The Ohio State University, receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology along with a minor in Equine Science. She has always loved animals and encountered horses at a very young age. Grace quickly became aware of the incredible connection that can form between human and horse and how sensitive the equine is to the temperament of the person even when no words are spoken. She has witnessed first hand that horses provide a profound and honest pathway to express and work through the sometimes internalized emotions and behaviors that can affect an individual's life. Grace has also experienced how horses provide a unique sensory opportunity to the person engaging with them that allows for positive impacts to their overall health and wellness. Grace is passionate about finding ways to share this knowledge and experience with others. She has over ten years of equine experience including riding, training, breeding and competing. Grace knew very early on that her career would be one that allowed her passion for horses and heart for people to work together to help to bring healing and wholeness to hurting individuals. She is so excited to join the PBJ team and the impactful work they do. In her free time, Grace enjoys spending time with her horses and her golden retriever “Archie”.
Equine Specialist

Grace Shafer
Pronouns:She/Her
Specialties:

Grace is a graduating student from The Ohio State University, receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology along with a minor in Equine Science. She has always loved animals and encountered horses at a very young age. Grace quickly became aware of the incredible connection that can form between human and horse and how sensitive the equine is to the temperament of the person even when no words are spoken. She has witnessed first hand that horses provide a profound and honest pathway to express and work through the sometimes internalized emotions and behaviors that can affect an individual's life. Grace has also experienced how horses provide a unique sensory opportunity to the person engaging with them that allows for positive impacts to their overall health and wellness. Grace is passionate about finding ways to share this knowledge and experience with others. She has over ten years of equine experience including riding, training, breeding and competing. Grace knew very early on that her career would be one that allowed her passion for horses and heart for people to work together to help to bring healing and wholeness to hurting individuals. She is so excited to join the PBJ team and the impactful work they do. In her free time, Grace enjoys spending time with her horses and her golden retriever “Archie”.
Glenda Childress
Glenda Childress
Pronouns:
Specialties: Corporate Culture, Strategic Planning, Nonprofit Start Up and Financials

Glenda Childress has over 30 years experience in organizational management in the telecommunications industry and is an effective and creative leader. Glenda is co-founder of PBJ Connections and served as Executive Director for five years followed by six years on the Board of Directors. Currently, Glenda is the CFO and management consultant. Glenda has been certified as an Equine Specialist in the Eagala Model since 2007.
Co-founder, CFO, & ES
Glenda Childress
Pronouns:
Specialties: Corporate Culture, Strategic Planning, Nonprofit Start Up and Financials

Glenda Childress has over 30 years experience in organizational management in the telecommunications industry and is an effective and creative leader. Glenda is co-founder of PBJ Connections and served as Executive Director for five years followed by six years on the Board of Directors. Currently, Glenda is the CFO and management consultant. Glenda has been certified as an Equine Specialist in the Eagala Model since 2007.

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