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Get to Know Speaking of Horses

Ada Haensel is a dynamic Virginia licensed speech-language pathologist and equine expert driven by a deep commitment to facilitating communication and empowerment in individuals with diverse abilities. Graduating from the University of Virginia with honors, Ada earned her undergraduate degree in Communication Disorders in 2019, followed by her master's degree in Communication Science and Disorders in 2021.

During her time at the university, Ada spearheaded groundbreaking research investigating the profound neurological effects of therapy animals on speech tasks. Her pioneering study illuminated the remarkable correlation between the presence of animals and enhanced cortical activation, particularly in crucial regions of the brain responsible for language processing and emotional regulation. Ada's findings, which drew from her innate curiosity and dedication to scientific inquiry, underscored the transformative potential of human-animal interactions in therapeutic settings.

Building upon her academic achievements, Ada embarked on a fulfilling career as a speech-language pathologist, where she honed her skills and expertise in diverse clinical settings. From her impactful work with South Eastern Therapy for Kids to her compassionate service within Prince William County Public Schools, The Keswick School, and Greene County Public Schools, Ada has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to tailoring her treatments to meet the unique needs of each individual client. Her holistic approach to therapy, rooted in empathy and innovation, has garnered praise from colleagues and clients alike.

In addition to her proficiency in speech-language pathology, Ada boasts extensive equine experience that has profoundly shaped her therapeutic philosophy. For over a decade, she volunteered at a therapeutic horse center in Northern Virginia, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of equine-assisted interventions. Ada's passion for horses extends beyond therapeutic practice; she is an accomplished equestrian who competes in the hunter/jumper discipline and has managed a bustling 30-horse show barn with finesse and dedication.

Ada's journey to becoming a trailblazing speech-language pathologist and equine expert is deeply personal. Diagnosed with dyslexia and severe anxiety in fourth grade, Ada navigated her own learning challenges with resilience and determination. Yet, her experiences with traditional therapeutic approaches left her feeling disconnected and disengaged. It was this realization that fueled Ada's vision for Speaking of Horses—a visionary endeavor aimed at revolutionizing speech therapy by infusing passion, engagement, and naturalistic experiences.

At Speaking of Horses, Ada is dedicated to creating a vibrant, nurturing environment where children not only discover their voices but also thrive in the process.

Through her innovative approach, Ada seamlessly integrates her passion for animals, particularly horses, into speech therapy sessions, allowing clients to engage with a diverse array of creatures—from dogs and cats to chickens and bugs—in a dynamic, multisensory environment. By harnessing the power of passion-based learning and equine movement, Ada ensures that each speech session is tailored to progress clients' specific goals while fostering a sense of joy, curiosity, and connection.

Ada's ultimate goal is to cultivate a safe, supportive, and fun environment where children not only meet their speech objectives but also develop a profound sense of confidence and self-worth. At Speaking of Horses, Ada envisions a place where clients eagerly anticipate each session, eagerly embracing the transformative journey toward communication and empowerment.

Ada's personal journey, coupled with her unwavering dedication to serving others, fuels her mission to redefine speech therapy and create lasting impact in the lives of children and families. With her unique blend of expertise in speech-language pathology and equine-assisted therapy, Ada is poised to lead Speaking of Horses into a future where every individual has the opportunity to find their voice, connect with others, and thrive.

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