A groundbreaking three-year initiative is set to transform how women across the Highlands heal from trauma and its deep connection to alcohol and addiction.

ACI Recovery Services and Highland Therapeutic Animals have secured significant funding from the Volant Trust to deliver Roots of Resilience, a pioneering trauma recovery programme specifically designed for women and families in the region.

The collaboration brings together trauma-informed counselling expertise with the therapeutic power of animals and nature, creating a holistic approach to healing that recognises the profound link between traumatic experiences and alcohol and addiction.

A Comprehensive Approach to Healing

Roots of Resilience offers participants a multi-layered trauma recovery programme that addresses emotional wounds at their source. The initiative combines three core elements: one-to-one trauma-informed counselling sessions, personal growth workshops that build confidence and resilience, and immersive therapy retreats in natural settings—all incorporating animal therapy.

Sharan Brown, development manager of ACI Recovery Services, explained the significance of the funding: “This is transformational. Roots of Resilience combines the expertise of ACI’s trauma-informed therapists with the healing presence of animals and the natural environment. Together, we create safe and restorative experiences for women who have faced addiction and trauma.”

The programme acknowledges that many women struggling with alcohol and addiction have underlying trauma that requires specialised support. By addressing these root causes, the trauma recovery programme aims to provide lasting healing rather than temporary solutions.

The Power of Animal-Assisted Therapy

Highland Therapeutic Animals brings a unique dimension to the programme through animal-assisted interventions. Research increasingly demonstrates that interactions with animals can reduce stress, lower anxiety levels, and help individuals develop trust—particularly crucial for those recovering from traumatic experiences.

Sandi Elliot, founder of Highland Therapeutic Animals, emphasised the collaborative approach: “By working side by side, our organisations are bringing a unique, holistic approach to recovery for women and families across the Highlands.”

The animals provide non-judgmental companionship and create opportunities for participants to practise nurturing behaviours, rebuild self-worth, and experience moments of joy during their recovery journey.

A Safe Space for Transformation

Roots of Resilience will operate as a free, safe, and inclusive service—removing financial barriers that often prevent women from accessing the support they need. The programme recognises that creating a trauma-informed environment is essential for genuine healing to occur.

One participant’s testimony powerfully illustrates the programme’s impact: “After years of NHS (mis)treatment, I never thought I’d get any better. But then I started coming to Highland Therapeutic Animals with ACI and I finally started to feel safe again.”

She continued: “Coming to see the animals became the best part of my week and talking to Erica helped me through a lot. Sandi and Yana would be there and always asked me how I was and to them I am forever grateful. I finally had a place where I could talk about anything and wouldn’t be told that they didn’t know how to deal with me.”

Building Confidence Through Connection

The personal growth workshops within the trauma recovery programme focus on developing practical skills and emotional resilience. Participants learn coping strategies, build self-awareness, and develop healthier ways of processing difficult emotions—all whilst surrounded by supportive facilitators and therapeutic animals.

The participant added: “I love animals so coming to see them every week is amazing, they and the humans are all so loving and kind. I mentioned Erica, she is the person I have been speaking to from ACI and she has been incredible. We have talked about everything from my problems to my interests and she always listens to me and offers her views which come from a place of genuine caring rather than a book.”

Addressing Root Causes, Creating Lasting Change

The programme’s emphasis on addressing trauma represents a crucial shift in how we understand and respond to alcohol and addiction. Rather than focusing solely on addictive behaviours, Roots of Resilience recognises that healing must address the underlying experiences that often drive these patterns.

For many women, traumatic experiences create a cycle of pain that manifests in various ways, including alcohol and addiction as coping mechanisms. By providing comprehensive trauma recovery programme support, the initiative aims to break this cycle and offer pathways to genuine wellbeing.

Life-Changing Impact

The participant’s closing words capture the transformative potential of this approach: “Sandi and her animals have changed my life. She is an incredibly kind person and I have no end of thanks to her. Without Highland Therapeutic Animals and ACI I don’t know where I’d be, but with them my life has become so much brighter and something worth living.”

With three years of confirmed funding, Roots of Resilience is positioned to support numerous women and families across the Highlands, offering hope and practical pathways to healing for those who have experienced trauma and its far-reaching consequences.

The programme represents a growing recognition that effective support for women affected by alcohol and addiction must address the whole person—acknowledging past experiences, current challenges, and future aspirations within a framework of compassion, safety, and evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Source: dbrecoveryresources