Gina Mendez founded Gaits to Healing to provide active Military, Veterans, First Responders, and EMS Personnel, along with their families, a compassionate and effective approach to healing through EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) equine-assisted therapy and continued mental health support.

Gina began her career in addiction counseling, later working with youth involved in gangs or on probation, where she witnessed the profound connection between trauma, environment, and behavior. She went on to serve in Child Protective Services and Family Services, supporting foster youth, families in crisis, and individuals with disabilities affected by trauma. As a therapist, she has focused on trauma, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and suicide prevention—utilizing her years in social services and clinical practice to advocate for care that truly works.

After losing her brother to suicide, Gina became deeply committed to preventing suicide in populations that often go unseen or unsupported. Her other brother’s twenty-five-year career as a volunteer firefighter who served through 9/11 gave her firsthand insight into the toll of repeated trauma and the urgent need for comprehensive support. Witnessing the high rate of suicide among those who serve inspired Gina to create lasting, accessible care for them and their families.

Wanting to close the gaps in existing services, Gina adopted the evidence-based EAGALA Model of equine-assisted therapy, also utilized by the VA, and assembled a dedicated team of First Responders, Veterans, and passionate professionals who share her belief in this mission and use their skills and experience to help bring it to life.

Through Gaits to Healing, Gina continues her mission to break the stigma surrounding mental health and ensure that active military, veterans, EMS personnel, and first responders always have a place to find connection, healing, and support.

Allyn T. Goodrich

President

Allyn Goodrich is a Las Vegas native, S.W.A.T. Operator, author, and public speaker dedicated to advocating for the mental health of all first responders. He is the author of the best-selling book October Strong and a passionate voice for breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement and emergency services.

Throughout his career, Allyn has witnessed the profound effects of trauma and the heartbreaking loss of peers in the line of duty. These experiences have deepened his commitment to supporting first responder wellness and resilience.

A father of four and husband to a fellow law enforcement officer, Allyn draws from both his professional and personal experiences to promote healing, awareness, and connection within the first responder community.

Joe Stabley, PA-C

Vice President & Peer Support

Joe is a retired Army Captain and Green Beret, as well as a board-certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) that takes an integrative approach to treating Veterans and First Responders. He utilizes experience from Addiction Psychiatry, Men’s Health, and Lifestyle Medicine to address both mental and physical injuries. 

He gained invaluable life experience by joining the US Army at age 17 to “leave the Inland Empire for good and see the world.”

Joe’s highlights from twenty one years of service include:

• Peacekeeping missions and humanitarian crisis relief with the 101st Airborne Division.

• Time as a flight medic for the US Army Air Ambulance Detachment

• Combat operations as a Green Beret with 10th Special Forces Group.

• Retiring as a Medical Officer and Master Resilience Trainer in the CA Army National Guard.  

It was Joe’s personal experience with EAGALA that lead him to Gaits to Healing. What started as a simple call to service, by caring for horses and peer support, evolved into a second chance at fulfilling a dream. On the final stretch of his own hero’s journey, his desire to “bring everyone home” to their loved ones is what matters most. 

Herbert A. Tejada, MBA

Treasurer

Herbert is a Fire Captain, Non-Profit Founder, and Mental Health Advocate with nineteen years of experience in Firefighting and public service.

He specializes in PTSD awareness, suicide prevention, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in first responder communities. As the founder of a grassroots non-profit, he led impactful initiates for seven years, empowering individuals and organizations.

With an MBA from California State University, Long Beach, he brings leadership and strategic expertise to advance resources and collaboration for first responders.

Paula Roller

Secretary

Based in Las Vegas, Nevada, Paula Roller brings deep compassion, lived experience, and operational expertise to her role in the mental health field. As the spouse of a Desert Storm Army Veteran and someone who has been personally affected by the loss of a loved one to suicide, Paula’s commitment to supporting those who serve runs deep.

Her professional background includes working in clinical operations, where she supports Psychiatrists, Nurse Practitioners, and Therapists in delivering quality mental health care. Paula is especially passionate about suicide prevention, trauma-informed support, and increasing access to care for military members, first responders, and their families.

Through Gaits to Healing, Paula combines her advocacy and professional skillset to create pathways of hope and healing—one step at a time.

Mike L. Lichardi is a highly experienced Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in trauma surgery and critical care medicine, currently practicing at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center in Atlantic City, New Jersey. A graduate of Seton Hall University’s Physician Assistant program (1985), he has dedicated his career to saving lives in high-pressure environments.

Beyond his medical career, Mike served as a volunteer firefighter for twenty-five years with the Freehold Fire Department, giving him firsthand insight into the physical and psychological toll faced by first responders. Michael served as President of the Freehold Borough Board of Education, demonstrating his strong commitment to his fellow community members.

His dedication to first responder mental health advocacy is deeply personal. He was present during the 9/11 attacks, an event that profoundly shaped his perspective on trauma and long-term stress exposure. He has endured devastating losses, including his brother’s death by suicide and the passing of his father-in-law due to 9/11-related cancer, the latter having worked closely with the Attorney General and Police Commissioner during 9/11. These experiences have fueled his mission to ensure first responders receive the psychological and emotional support they deserve.

Mike’s connection to the law enforcement and mental health communities runs deep. He is married to a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), whose father was a police detective, and continues to invest his time and energy toward caring for his family and our mission.

Justin Kalnas

Board Member

As a Fire Captain with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, Justin Kalnas has dedicated his career to protecting lives, leading firefighters, and fostering growth—both in the field and training environments. With over 16 years of experience as a Firefighter, Firefighter Paramedic, and Engineer, he brings expertise and a commitment to excellence to every role.

He has worked with the EMS Bureau in training and quality improvement, served as a Paramedic Preceptor, and contributed to the Fire Behavior Cadre alongside some of the most skilled and inspiring firefighters he has known. These experiences have sharpened his technical knowledge, leadership abilities, and passion for mentoring others. He holds numerous state and local certifications and continuously seeks opportunities to expand his skills and impact within the fire service.

Having grown up as the child of a firefighter, Justin witnessed firsthand the physical and emotional toll this career takes. Later, through his own experiences in both fire service and law enforcement settings, he saw the impact of repeated exposure to trauma and the limitations of traditional support systems. His father, a LAFD Fire Captain, earned a Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the Route 91 tragedy—an event that further reinforced the need for better mental health resources for first responders.

Recognizing the need for a different approach to resilience and healing, Justin joined the board of Gaits to Healing, a nonprofit equine therapy program dedicated to supporting first responders. This organization provides an alternative path to mental wellness, offering the kind of support he knows firsthand is essential for those who serve.

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.

A lifelong martial artist, Taylor trains in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to sharpen both his physical capabilities and mental resilience. His dedication to first responder wellness extends beyond the job, as he plays a key role in his department’s wellness team. He also finds balance and recovery through daily care of his family’s horses, witnessing firsthand the therapeutic power of working with animals. Whether on duty or in training, Taylor is committed to safety, resilience, and supporting those on the front lines

Zoë Dalton is a healthcare recruiter and HR professional based in Vernon, NJ, and founder of 30 Point 28, LLC. She holds a B.S. in Rehabilitation Services with a concentration in Deaf Education and Speech Pathology, and a minor in Psychology. A former First Responder and dedicated mental health advocate, Zoë is passionate about supporting First Responders, Military Veterans and their Families, and Trauma Survivors.

In 2024, she discovered equine-assisted therapy and is pursuing EAGALA certification to further her commitment to accessible alternative healing.

Zoë’s lifelong love of horses, professional background and life experience bring valuable insight to the board and its mission of advancing trauma-informed care.

Jamie Borba serves as an Equine Care Volunteer and Peer Support with Gaits to Healing. She brings two decades of experience as a peace officer with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, where she served in custody at the Intake and Release Center and the Central Women’s Jail, as well as patrol operations in Dana Point, Stanton, and Newport Harbor. Jamie’s career also included five years with the Mounted Enforcement Unit, seven years on the Dive Team, and eight years in investigations, where she worked in backgrounds, general investigations, and financial crimes.

In addition to her work with Gaits to Healing, she is currently pursuing her doctorate in forensic psychology, furthering her commitment to understanding and supporting the mental health needs of others.

Originally from New York, she moved to Orange County and has built a life rooted in service, family, and animals. She and her husband—also in law enforcement, with experience on the bomb squad and as a canine handler—are raising three children along with a lively household of animals, including two horses, two goats, chickens, a rescue bunny, a bearded dragon, and three dogs (one a bomb dog and two adopted ranch dogs). Her love for animals and commitment to supporting others make her a valued part of the Gaits to Healing team.

Emily Larson

Volunteer, Community Outreach

Emily has over 35 years of extensive equine experience. She worked as a PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) Certified instructor and the volunteer coordinator at the nonprofit HEARTS Therapeutic Equestrian Center where she led adaptive riding sessions and managed a full team of volunteers. Emily personally launched a successful program, Hearts for Hero’s, serving military veterans. As part of the equine team, Emily participated in evaluating new horses for program suitability and managed the equine conditioning program to ensure the horses remained mentally and physically sound for the unique demands of therapeutic work.

Emily is currently working in education at a school located on a U.S. military base, supporting military-connected students and their families. In this role, Emily provides consistent academic and social-emotional support, assists students through the challenges of frequent moves and parental deployments, and works closely with educators and supports staff to create a stable, inclusive, and responsive learning environment tailored to the unique needs of military children.

Ava Ramirez-Ene, Ph.D.

Board Member

Dr. Ava is a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, Educator, and trauma-informed wellness practitioner with over fifteen years of experience in victim advocacy, forensic psychology, and holistic healing. She medically retired after nearly nine years of military service, including a deployment to Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom, where her passion for advocacy began as a Uniformed Victim Advocate supporting survivors of military sexual assault.

 She holds a Ph.D. in Forensic Psychology (Victimology) and has worked with Homeland Security Investigations, Court Appointed Special Advocates, and programs supporting victims of crime and at-risk youth. Dr. Ava now consults nationally on violence prevention, military victimization, and community response initiatives.

 Dr. Ava is also a lifelong equestrian and horse rescue advocate who has personally experienced the transformative power of horses. She is honored to serve on the Board of Gaits to Healing, supporting first responders and service members through equine-assisted therapy.

Andy Gryzwa, Fire Chief

Board Member

Andrew (Andy) Gryzwa began his public safety career in 1984 as a Firefighter with Cal Fire before joining the La Habra Fire Department, where he rose through the ranks from Firefighter/Paramedic to Battalion Chief/Paramedic. Over his distinguished career, Andy also served as Arson Investigator, Fire Marshal, and Chief Investigator of the Arson Unit with the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

Alongside his fire service, Andy served in law enforcement with the La Habra Police Department as a full-time Police Officer and later as a Designated Level 1 Reserve Officer until 2015. His assignments included Patrol, Traffic, Narcotics, Property Crimes, and service on the Warrant Entry and SWAT Teams as a Tactical (TEMS) Paramedic.

Following his retirement from L.A. County Fire, Andy became Fire Chief and Fire Academy Director at Rio Hondo College and currently serves as Fire Chief for the Running Springs Fire Department.

Having served in both fire and police service, Andy has witnessed firsthand the toll of trauma, loss, and cumulative stress on first responders. He has lost colleagues to PTSD and job-related injuries and remains deeply committed to supporting responder wellness. Andy believes Gaits to Healing plays a vital role in addressing the emotional and physical pain experienced by those who serve, helping save first responder lives through acknowledgment, support, and treatment.

Michael Lichardi, PharmD, MHS is a Critical Care and Emergency Medicine Pharmacist and Advisory Board Member for Gaits to Healing. He earned his Doctor of Pharmacy and Master of Health Science in Healthcare Informatics from Fairleigh Dickinson University, followed by advanced residency training at Ocean University Medical Center (OUMC).

 At OUMC, Michael works on the front lines of patient care in the ICU and ER and serves on the Resuscitation Committee, helping improve emergency response and patient outcomes. Coming from a family of first responders—his father and brother are firefighters, and his grandfather was an NYPD officer and 9/11 first responder who later passed away from cancer related to Ground Zero exposure—Michael understands the physical and emotional toll of these professions.

 The loss of his uncle to suicide following a traumatic brain injury further strengthened his commitment to first responder mental health. Michael combines his clinical expertise and personal passion to advance wellness initiatives for those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.

Monica Nichols, MD, is a psychiatrist who attended medical school and completed her residency in Psychiatry at the University of California San Diego Medical School.

She has worked in a variety of settings, including Riverside County Mental Health, private practice, correctional settings, and a residential treatment center. Her extensive experience includes working with active-duty military, veterans, first responders, and individuals recovering from trauma, including those with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Dr. Nichols is deeply committed to the mission of saving lives and helping patients overcome trauma, regain stability, and achieve healing. She values a holistic, integrative approach to treatment and appreciates incorporating modalities such as equine-assisted therapy to support recovery.

Joe Fox

Advisory Board Member

Joseph Fox served more than thirty-seven years with the New York City Police Department, retiring in 2018 after seven years as Chief of the NYPD’s Transit Bureau, leading over 2,600 members who secure the nation’s busiest rail system. Throughout his career, he commanded several divisions, including Patrol Borough Brooklyn South, Queens South, Internal Affairs, and the Office of Training.

Following retirement, Joe became Chief of Staff at Silverseal Security, where he focuses on leadership development and team empowerment. A certified Executive and Life Coach, he is dedicated to helping others reach their fullest potential. Joe also serves on the Presidential Medal of Valor Committee, 5Star Life Insurance Board, and Rockaway’s September 11th Tribute Park, and is a Master Trainer with Blue Courage.

Tes Hankel is the founder of LogoFusion, an advertising specialty distributor based in Las Vegas, which she started in 2005. She holds a BA in Management with a minor in Psychology from the University of North Florida. Outside of her career, Tes is a proud mother and first-time grandmother, always balancing family life with her work.

As the daughter of a Veteran, Tes has a deep passion for supporting veterans and first responders. She’s committed to helping them navigate the resources available to them, ensuring they get the support they deserve. Along with running her business, Tes is an active volunteer, giving her time to causes that matter most to her.

Jason Law

Advisory Board Member & Peer Support

Jason has spent 17 years in the fire service at a captain for Henderson Fire department where he serves as peer support and over 20 years as a paramedic.

Through his own journey, he’s learned the importance of honesty, connection, and support—believing that “it’s okay to not be okay—but not okay to keep it to yourself.”

As part of Gaits to Healing, Jason serves on the Advisory Board and offers peer support, walking alongside first responders and their families with compassion and understanding.

Jeff Clark

Peer Support

Jeff Clark is a retired police officer with 18 years of service, including roles as a Field Training Officer, Assault Detective, and Vice President of the Inglewood Police Officers Association.

After retiring in 2011, he spent 10 years as a flight attendant with Southwest Airlines, ensuring passenger safety and security until his retirement in 2024.

Jeff enjoys time with his adult children and granddaughter, as well as hiking, fishing, golfing, and exploring the outdoors with his dog. Understanding the positive effects being active and outside, Jeff values the meaning behind the Gaits to Healing mission. Through his own personal practice he is led to be involved with peer support, enabling the growth of positive effects throughout the First Responder community.

As a Peer Support Candidate, Jeff is proudly walking through the Gates to Healing method with our team to gain first-hand experience with Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy and Learning.

Ramone D. Resop is a Program Development and Training Specialist for a Combat and Operational Stress Control Center in San Diego, CA, and a U.S. Navy Retired Chief Hospital Corpsman. Over his 23-year Navy career, he completed nine overseas deployments, including multiple combat tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

 As a Strategic Military Outreach Coordinator and Subject Matter Expert, Ramone provides psychological health training and consultation to military forces worldwide. Drawing from his own experiences with trauma and recovery, he is a passionate advocate for mental health among service members, veterans, first responders, and families affected by pediatric cancer.

Ed Monroe is a veteran of the Los Angeles County Fire Department. He was born in Del Rio Texas; learning invaluable lessons from his father, an Air Force pilot. He grew up on Air Force Bases across the United States and internationally in Japan; although, Monroe refers to Huntington Beach, CA. as his hometown. 

Ed holds a degree in Mathematics – Applied, graduating from California State University Northridge. He has been a member of LACoFD for almost 20 years and a fire Captain for the better half of a decade. Captain Monroe’s job specialties include incident command, wildland and structure firefighting, HAZMAT Specialist, and EMS.  He has also been involved in the mathematical analysis of the effectiveness of prepositioned resources during fire weather. 

Captain Monroe’s industry, non-job functions and skills, include Peer support and Honor Guard. In 2021, Captain Monroe was directly involved in a very notable, significant critical incident and speaks publicly on the topic.  Monroe addresses fire service crews, law enforcement officers, first responders, and clinicians on unimaginable critical incidence, and cumulative traumatic stress experiences. 

Ed is passionate about mental health and wellness and continues to advocate for first responders who have experienced and are struggling with their own cumulative traumatic stress, critical incidents, and PTSD. 

In addition to teaching awareness in his own department, he has spoken at the PSPSA Conference in 2022, the ICISF World Congress in 2023, 1st Responder Conferences – Tempe AZ, Brothers Helping Brothers in 2024, and has had numerous pod cast appearances.

As an Advisory Board Member and Peer Support, Ed is intentionally walking through the Gates to Healing method with our team to gain first-hand experience with Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy and Learning

Kristi Miedecke is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a professional background in both law enforcement and mental health. She served as a Psychiatric Emergency Response Team Officer and Field Training Officer with the San Diego Police Department before transitioning into clinical practice. Kristi earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and continued on to achieving a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Counseling/Therapy.

Drawing on her unique experience, Kristi specializes in trauma-informed care and equine-assisted psychotherapy. She is EAGALA Certified, allowing her to integrate evidence-based practices with equine-assisted approaches to support clients in developing resilience, healing from trauma, and strengthening relationships.

Kristi has focused her work on Veterans and First Responders, populations she is deeply committed to serving. Through her role with Gaits to Healing, she continues this mission by providing accessible, compassionate, and effective mental health services designed to help individuals and families overcome adversity and thrive.