About Us

OBH

At the heart of our program is the belief in the resilience and strength of veterans. With added support from fellow veterans who understand the challenges firsthand, our team is dedicated to providing a supportive environment where participants can embark on a transformative journey towards healing.

Equine-assisted therapy and nature immersion offer unique pathways to healing and self-discovery. Horses, with their intuitive nature and nonjudgmental presence, serve as powerful allies in the journey towards emotional healing and personal growth. Combined with the restorative power of nature, this approach provides a whole-person and immersive experience that can catalyze profound transformation.

We look forward to seeing you at the farm.

Joe, Jake, Mykela, Dustin and Jen

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

The staff

Jennifer Bandy, CTRC, NLC-EP, ESMHL

“Hi, I’m Jennifer, the founder of Walk With Me Healing Steps. My passion is working with horses and people who are struggling to find the healing they desire. I am a mom with two sons who are now veterans themselves. I once found myself stuck in my own trauma. But by putting the pieces together, I realized that my horses, along with God, have given me the strength and desire to make the changes I needed to be successful in my trauma recovery and as a coach. I have witnessed lives completely transformed through Trauma Recovery Coaching and Equine therapy. I am constantly amazed by all that can be accomplished through this work. You can find the relief, peace, and happiness you’re looking for – I did.”

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.

Joe Nash, OBH Director, ESMHL Intern

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.

Liz Wise, Early Childhood Development, Program Liaison

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.

Mykela Lofendo, ESMHL

Hello, my name is Mykela Lofendo and I am an Equine Specialist in Mental Health Learning here at Walk With Me. My husband and I have lived in Vale, North Carolina since 2021 with our two dogs, Ringo and Zoey, and our horses, Chief, Keg and Vera. Before setting our roots, we lived in many states and moved around quite a bit, learning a bit more about ourselves and values each time. I grew up in Illinois riding, showing, and training horses almost as long as I have been able to walk. Working with horses has always been a passion of mine and through this passion I have experienced how a relationship with them can benefit all aspects of my own life, as well as my relationship with others. I joined the Marine Corps in 2017 where I was stationed in Camp Pendleton, California. When I was there I learned more about myself and my desire in life to help others. Through working at Walk With Me, I have been able to combine these two passions. Due to my background with the military, I specialize in our veteran program Operation Battle Horse.

Dustin Thompson, Barn Manager

Dustin, a devoted husband and father to his daughter and two stepchildren, is a combat veteran who found his way to our farm through a friend’s recommendation. Having tried other programs without lasting impact, Dustin discovered unparalleled insight and healing through equine-assisted therapy. The connection he forged with horses provided a transformative path to understanding and overcoming the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. Now, as a peer support, Dustin passionately guides other veterans, sharing his journey to show them they are not alone in their struggles.

Lindi Cline, ESMHL

Hello my name is Lindi Elizabeth Cline I live with my husband in Granite Falls NC. We’ve been married 3 years and have 3 daughters and 1 son. We have 3 dogs and 1 cat & 1 horse. I currently work as an assistant for an accountant at J&D taxes Inc. In my spare time, I love volunteering and assisting with Trauma Recovery Coaching group sessions that partner with a therapy horse. I am currently working toward my 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

Paul Kern, IT Specialist

Paul, married to Mykela and an avid animal lover, is a vital part of our team, blending his passion for technology and equine therapy. As our behind-the-scenes IT specialist, he ensures our systems run smoothly, keeping the farm connected. A veteran himself, Paul also steps forward to offer peer support, providing guidance and camaraderie to fellow veterans navigating the transition to civilian life. His love for animals and dedication to helping others make him an essential part of our mission, reminding veterans they are never alone.

Jake Bandy, Peer Support

Jake, a recent military veteran who separated from service in January 2025, found his calling at our 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.