Ague Accepted into ARCH (Arenas for Change) Certification Program through Horses for Mental Health

Double Hearts Ranch is proud to announce that Tamitha Ague, licensed social worker and owner, has been accepted into the ARCH (Arenas for Change) Certification Program through Horses for Mental Health, a national organization dedicated to advancing safe, ethical, and effective equine-informed mental health services. 

The ARCH (Arenas for Change) Certification is a nationally recognized professional designation that establishes high standards for equine-assisted and equine-informed services, with a focus on trauma-responsive practice, equine welfare, ethical service delivery, and expanding access to mental health supports. The certification process includes rigorous training, education, and program development to ensure services are delivered responsibly and in alignment with best practices. 

Ms. Ague is scheduled to complete her ARCH certification by April 30, 2026, following an intensive week-long in-person training and additional program requirements. Upon completion, she will begin serving individuals, families, and groups throughout Northeast Missouri at Double Hearts Ranch, an experiential agritourism and equine-informed learning destination. 

Following certification, Ms. Ague will also participate in the 2026 Horses for Mental Health Campaign, a national initiative focused on increasing awareness, access, and community engagement around equine-informed mental health services. 

"Participating in the 2026 Horses for Mental Health Campaign allows us to be part of a national movement that prioritizes ethical practice, professional accountability, and access to meaningful mental health support," said Ague. "Through Double Hearts Ranch, I am committed to providing safe, trauma-responsive equine-informed services while working collaboratively to expand mental health access in rural communities." 

This national certification advances safe, ethical, and effective equine-informed mental health services and positions Double Hearts Ranch to expand collaborative, trauma-responsive programming for individuals, families, and groups across Northeast Missouri. Upon completion of certification in April, Ms. Ague will also participate in the 2026 Horses for Mental Health Campaign, a national initiative focused on increasing awareness and access to equine-informed mental health services. Rural innovation in mental health access, professional certification, and community-based wellness services connected to agriculture and tourism. 
Collaborative Care Opportunities for Mental Health Professionals 
Mental health professionals across Northeast Missouri are invited to contact Ms. Ague to begin coordinating collaborative care services for their clients. These services are designed to complement traditional clinical treatment by integrating equine-informed, trauma-responsive sessions that support emotional regulation, self-awareness, communication, and overall mental wellness. 
Equine-informed sessions at Double Hearts Ranch are anticipated to run May through November, offering seasonal programming that aligns with client needs and personal goals. Services will be structured to support collaboration with licensed providers, ensuring continuity of care and alignment with each client's treatment plan. 
"As a licensed social worker, collaboration and ethical integration of services are foundational to my practice," said Ague. "ARCH equips us to work alongside mental health professionals to expand access to meaningful, nature-based supports for clients of all ages." Mental health professionals, community partners, and individuals interested in collaborative services or future programming are encouraged to contact Tamitha Ague, ACSW, LBSW-IP, directly at 573.735.7258 or by email at doubleheartsranch@yahoo.com.