Hidden Gems: Meet Karol Santistevan of Ropes and Roses Therapy Services

Today we’d like to introduce you to Karol Santistevan.

Karol, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Raised by parents who deeply ingrained in me a passion for aiding both animals and people through tangible actions, it’s no surprise that my life’s calling led me to establish Ropes and Roses Therapy Services. This journey began in 1999 during my college years when I formulated a business plan for Ropes & Roses, a concept intertwining the symbolism of horse lead ropes and the blossoming stages of growth.

Despite the initial dream of establishing an equestrian center, practicality dictated otherwise. However, fate intervened when I answered an advertisement seeking assistance for the Special Olympics equestrian team. Subsequently, I obtained certification as a Special Olympics Equestrian Coach, achieved Level 2 Western & English Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) Instructor status, and in 2004, earned my PATH Int’l Registered Level Instructor Certification.

That same year I co-founded Reach 4A Star Riding Academy, serving as its executive director. This academy became a Premier Accredited Therapeutic (PATH) Riding Center. My dedication and expertise were recognized when I received the PATH Int’l Region 10 Instructor of the Year award in 2007. Encouraged by both students and colleagues, I decided to further my education by pursuing a Master of Occupational Therapy program through the University of North Dakota.

I began offering occupational therapy services in addition to running Reach 4A Star and, after 18 years, transitioned out of my role at R4AS in 2022 to focus full-time on my occupational therapy practice on a new 36-acre campus with 4 buildings and plenty of room to incorporate horses and other animals into our treatment strategies. The lodge is a 3400 square foot home with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, and a state-of-the-art kitchen which allows us to offer a variety of programs and training for clients, professionals, and the community.

My approach is holistic, and nature-based, and allows clients to get in touch with themselves in our beautiful Wyoming environment. It gives clients the chance to realize who they are in a truly authentic way. Our location is a peaceful, tranquil place. The lodge has a 2 story living area with floor-to-ceiling windows and a spectacular view of Casper Mountain. I currently have three employees, several volunteers, and several therapy animals including 12 horses, 2 dogs, 2 sheep, and 2 goats.

In 2023, I achieved accreditation as a DIRFloortime® Practitioner through the International Council on Development and Learning (ICDL). My educational background, coupled with years of hands-on experience and a holistic, nature-based approach, enables me to establish profound connections with my patients.

By returning to the essence of occupational therapy, I ground myself and my equine partners to collaborate effectively in supporting our clients. My extensive ties within the mental health community allow for the development of comprehensive wraparound services that cater to our community’s needs.

I feel fortunate to serve as an adjunct at Casper College. This role allows me not only to teach but also to mentor associate students in OTA, Pre-OT, Social Work, Addiction Studies, Nursing, and Education. Additionally, I regularly collaborate with UW Social Work Students and University of North Dakota OT Doctorate students. As an active member of the Natrona County Suicide Prevention Task Force, I am currently dedicated to expanding The Pick-Up Man Campaign.

This initiative aims to raise awareness of and prevent suicides within the cowboy, rodeo, and western communities. The campaign involves distributing yellow feathers for individuals to wear in their hats or hair, symbolizing their commitment to supporting one another during challenging times. I advocate for individuals to become the “pick-up man” for others, providing support and encouragement, and reaching out for help when needed.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
While I wish I could say that my journey was paved with golden road apples, the reality is quite different. Initiating a non-profit organization from the ground up is no easy feat, and transitioning from a successful non-profit business to establishing a for-profit practice presented its own set of hurdles.

Nevertheless, I’ve been fortunate to have an incredible support network consisting of family, friends, and dedicated supporters of my endeavors, which has helped me navigate through these challenges.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Ropes and Roses Therapy Services is an outpatient therapy and wellness service with an emphasis on Mental Health specializing in nature-based and animal-assisted approaches. We blend the tranquility of nature and the healing power of horses to provide a unique environment for rejuvenation and mental health support.

We are on a 36-acre campus with 4 buildings and plenty of room to incorporate horses and other animals into our treatment strategies. Our location is a peaceful, tranquil place. The lodge has a 2 story living area with floor-to-ceiling windows and a spectacular view of Casper Mountain. Our experienced team offers 30+ years of combined experience offering comprehensive services and innovative treatments, all delivered with empathy, privacy, and professionalism.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up.
I have cherished memories of my initial job, which involved warming up and cooling down the pick-up horses my dad utilized as a pick-up man. For those unfamiliar, a pick-up man in a rodeo is responsible for assisting riders to get off a bucking horse in a rodeo. They ensure the safety of both the rider and the horse by swiftly maneuvering to their aid and offering a helping hand.

Essentially, they act as supportive figures, helping to keep the event running smoothly, and safely, and ensuring the well-being of all participants. One of my dad’s retired pick-up horses became my first show horse. Socks and I could do it all even though our approach was a bit unorthodox for the show ring.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ropesandrosestherapy.com
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Ropes-Roses-Therapy-Services/100057399311577/

Image Credits
Cindy Schneider (Angel Mountain Media) and Bruce Nichols