Our Team | Gaits To Healing 3

Rachel Wittenberg

Co-Founder, Equine Specialist, & Trustee

Rachel Wittenberg is a dedicated Equine Specialist, certified through the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association. With a passion for holistic well-being, she is also a certified Professional Mindfulness Teacher through the International Mindfulness Teachers Association and a skilled Meditation and Yoga Nidra Guide. Rachel specializes in helping individuals regulate their nervous systems and cultivate resilience through evidence-based mindfulness practices. Her compassionate approach integrates equine-assisted learning with mindfulness techniques, empowering people to achieve balance, emotional regulation, and personal growth.

Operation Team

Dedication. Expertise. Passion.

Community Partnership Liaison

Fire Chief Eddie Sells, M.S

Eddie Sell holds a Master of Science degree in Crisis, Emergency, and Disaster Management. He is an innovative Fire Chief and Critical Paramedic who is dedicated to mentoring and encouraging firefighters at all levels. He also volunteers as the president of the California State Firefighters’ Association and the California First Responder’s Support Team. Chief Sell utilizes his personal experiences as both a mentee and a mentor in the fire service and the U.S. Navy to build others up and encourage teamwork, collaboration, support, and effectiveness in spite of the challenges of the career.

Community Liaison

Zoe Dalton

Assistant Clinical Director

Linda Alba-Lichardi, MSW, LCSW

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PeerSupport

Matthew Laughlin, AMFT, APCC

Matthew Laughlin holds a Master of Science in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution and a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy & Professional Clinical Counseling. He began his career in public safety as a deputy sheriff before transitioning to firefighting, ultimately attaining the rank of Captain. He now works with firefighters, paramedics, and law enforcement officers who are struggling with PTSD, operational stress, and trauma-related challenges.

Equine Volunteer and Peer Support

Jamie Borba, PhD

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Peer Support

Taylor LaPoint

Taylor Lapoint is a seasoned law enforcement and security professional with extensive experience in corrections, rural policing, SWAT operations, and executive protection. He began his career with the Nevada Department of Corrections before serving as a deputy sheriff in Esmeralda County, where he honed his skills in remote law enforcement. Now a SWAT operator and police officer with the Riverside Police Department, he specializes in tactical operations, crisis response, and high-risk incidents.