About Us
OBH
At the heart of Operation Battle Horse is a simple belief: veterans are resilient, and healing happens best in the presence of horses, nature, and people who understand.
We are a veteran-centered program that uses equine-assisted activities and nature immersion to help service members and veterans rebuild trust — with themselves, with others, and with the families who have been waiting for them to come all the way home.
Many of us on the team are veterans or family members of veterans. We know the weight of transition, the quiet isolation, and the struggle to reconnect after service. That’s why we created a space that feels different from traditional talk therapy: honest, non-judgmental, and grounded in real relationship — starting with a horse.
We look forward to seeing you at the farm.
Mission
Our goal is to offer assistance to veterans and active service members facing challenges in their personal and social lives. We aim to help veterans develop healthier relationships with themselves and others.
Vision
Our vision is to improve quality of life, introduce healthy coping mechanisms and combat suicide in the the veteran community.
Values
- Integrity and accountability - ensuring that all relationships are based on ethical principles and conducted with respect
- Service - providing effective and responsive service to meet the needs of our clients
- Education – sharing the knowledge and skills with clients to facilitate their success
The staff
Jennifer Bandy, CTRC, NLC-EP, ESMHL
Founder of Walk With Me Healing Steps and the driving force behind Operation Battle Horse. A trauma recovery coach and equine specialist, Jennifer has two sons who are veterans. She knows firsthand what it means to fight for healing — and she has watched horses help people find peace, purpose, and connection again.
Joe Nash, OBH Director, ESMHL
Joe is a dedicated equine specialist in mental health and learning, bringing his unique perspective as a combat veteran, husband, and father of three boys to our farm. Initially joining a session at his wife’s request, Joe discovered the profound impact of equine therapy and now serves as a peer support for fellow veterans. With firsthand experience navigating the challenges of transitioning from a military mindset to civilian life, Joe is passionate about letting others know they are not alone. His commitment to supporting veterans through equine-assisted programs makes him an invaluable part of our team.
Julie Dollar, MA, LCMHC
Hi, I’m Julie, a Licensed Mental Health clinician. I specialize in dual diagnosis, which means I can help support your recovery from substance use, trauma, and any mental health diagnosis. I came on board at Walk With Me Healing Steps because I have a passion and a heart for healing. I wanted to use my skills to reach out and have a direct effect on the community. I began my career in mental health working with a residential living facility and recovery support for women with Substance abuse and mental health issues. I worked as a Team Lead for the Community Support team and moved into private practice before beginning her work with Vaya. I have earned a Bachelor of Art in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Science for Counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor.
I enjoy spending time with my twelve year old son, attending Church, and the outdoors. I am active in the Substance Abuse Community and hopes to bring awareness to the Opioid Abuse Crisis in North Carolina.
Liz Wise, LCMHC-A
Elizabeth received her undergraduate degree in Sociology in 2011. She has been an Infant Toddler Family Specialist with Little Angels Therapy since 2012. She has accumulated over 100 additional hours in training to support children and family. Training includes: Darkness to Light, Level 3 Director Certification, Registered Behavior Technician Training, Autism Modules, and Trauma Focused Care. She completed Partners in Policymaking where she presented a mock testimony to Legislation. In 2014 she traveled to Kentucky where she attended the DASY data institute and presented at the Division of Education – Special Education Division (DEC-SPED) International Conference. She served as the Parent Co-Chair for the Local Interagency Coordinating Council for 10 years.
Over the past decade she has created strong community connections.. Over the past few years she has been volunteering at the farm and spearheaded the 1st Annual Experience Christmas event. Since the moment she started planning for Experience Christmas she has not looked back. Elizabeth will be completing her double major in Psychology and pursuing her Masters in 2023. She is currently getting hands-on training and experience as an Equine Specialist to support Jen in documenting and supporting the curriculum for The Dirt Road Experience. It is her desire to support and grow each program at Walk With Me Healing Steps.
Spencer Setcavage, LCMHC-A
My approach to therapy is laid-back, empathetic, and collaborative. I believe you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to walk alongside you as you explore your experiences, relationships, emotions, and patterns.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, self-esteem, identity, or attachment injuries, therapy can provide a space to slow down, gain insight, and develop a deeper understanding of yourself.
I incorporate attachment-based, person-centered, and humanistic approaches, along with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and principles of Polyvagal Theory. Together, we can explore how your experiences have shaped the way you see yourself, relate to others, and respond to the world around you.
Lindi Cline, ESMHL, Community Out Reach
Hello my name is Lindi Cline. I am a certification as an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning and peer support. I’m doing this in memory of my Mother who dealt with a mental health issue, Bi-Polar Depression. I am active in my church at Waterlife in Lenoir NC.
My favorite quote is…
“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” Maya Angelou
Jake Bandy, Peer Support
Jake, a recent military veteran who separated from service in January 2025, found his calling at the farm, driven by a deep love for farm life and a desire to support his fellow veterans. Seeking camaraderie and a sense of purpose. Jake brings his passion for animals and the outdoors to our equine therapy programs. As a peer support, he offers understanding and encouragement, helping veterans build connections. Jake’s commitment to fostering healing and community ensures no veteran feels alone on their journey.