Darcy Bedortha, MS, MA
Founder & Director | equine specialist
Darcy has gathered 30 years of experience, research and training in the worlds of education, mental health and horses, bringing that knowledge together to found H.O.R.S.E.S on the Ranch.
Based in Prineville, Oregon with a global lens, her goal is to facilitate healing and growth through partnership with horses. Darcy’s work is grounded in the understanding that people have innate wisdom, and with support, can find their own powerful, unique answers to life’s challenges. Because horses are highly sensitive, offer a non-judgemental presence and a natural ability to facilitate truth, they are ideal partners in healing trauma.
Through her pursuit of both a Masters of Arts in Education and Masters of Science in Education Leadership and Policy, Darcy focused on marginalized populations, alternative pathways to education, and students who are often considered “At Risk”. She studied extensively in democratic, experiential and self-directed education, Restorative Justice, Social-Emotional Learning, addictions counseling, Systems Thinking, community education, leadership and change. As a parent, an educator, and an active community member, she has witnessed the devastating generational impact of substance abuse, and its deep roots in trauma. She has spent the last decade immersed in seeking solutions. Darcy is also a certified SMART Recovery facilitator.
Robyn Loxley, LPC
Mental Health Therapist and Veteran
Robyn received her masters degree in clinical mental health through the Oregon State University-Cascades campus. Post graduation, Robyn has worked within Prineville serving the greater Crook County area in county and private run behavioral health agencies. Robyn has enjoyed working with children and families as well as a focus on LGBTQ+ and Veterans’ issues.
As a mental health therapist and Veteran of the United States Armed Forces Robyn has had the opportunity to work in a wide variety of settings with individuals from diverse back grounds. During this time Robyn witnessed the effects of trauma, loss, substance use and alienation as well as exceptional resilience and she hopes to continue her service with people who find themselves in need of healing and peace.
Robyn enjoys spending time with her family, reading, traveling, eating all types of food and relaxing with her animals. As an owner of two cats and a rescue dog she knows and has directly benefited from the calm, quiet compassion that animals can bring to humans. Robyn feels blessed as a Prineville community member to give back in this very special way.
Alia Fern, LPC Assoc
Mental Health Intern and Yoga Teacher
Alia completed her Master’s degree in Counseling through Oregon State University – Cascades in Bend, OR. She specializes in trauma healing, using yoga and somatic awareness in therapeutic settings. Alia is trained in Yoga For Trauma and Resiliency through Sacred Roots Wellness in Asheville, NC and is certified at Level 3 to teach movement, breath, and body work for the treatment of PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, etc. through the lens of yoga. She is a certified yoga instructor through and has taught over 850 hours of classes and private lessons.
Alia incorporated these techniques for self-regulation in her internship with Saving Grace in Crook, Jefferson, and Deschutes counties, specifically working with survivors of sexual and domestic violence. Alia has a life-long love and reverence of horses and has herself experienced the beauty and growth of being in relationship with these incredible animals.