Operation HOPE is a mental health program founded by two clinical social workers, Sara Velez and Brooke Lichter. Both are EAGALA certified and trained to facilitate services that are equine based. Services are available for anyone 11 years or older who has a history of mental health disorders. Sara and Brooke also tailor their services to first responders, veterans, and others who are at high-risk of trauma exposure. In addition to Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, they now offer Telehealth and Ecotherapy sessions. They operate out of two locations in Monmouth County, all of which are sanctuary farms for equine animals.

See attached for brochure, if you are interested in learning more, outreach them at (732)-497-8078 or info@operationhopenj.com. In order to complete a referral, the family/guardian must contact Operation HOPE directly. 

Eligibility	11 years or older
Age Groups	Children Adolescents Adults Seniors
Community Services	Family & Support Services Family Support
Health Services	Behavioral / Mental Health Anxiety Behavioral Emotional Regulation Grief / Loss Mental Health Relationship / Peer Issues Resilience Building Self-Esteem Self-Injury Sexual Abuse Substance Use / Addiction Teen Issues
Treatment Services	Outpatient Services Alternative Therapies Equine Assisted / Hippotherapy
Payment Types	Self Pay

Last Updated: 07/07/25