Superstars in Business Winner: Courageous Hearts, LLC | 1-14 Employees

HOLISTIC HEALING AND COMPASSION

How Courageous Hearts is empowering growth through trauma-informed care and animal-assisted therapy

BY AMANDA SCHIMMEL | PHOTOS BY NICK WALLACE PHOTOGRAPHY

WHAT BEGAN IN 2012 as a collaboration between a licensed mental health professional and an equine expert has since evolved into a thriving organization dedicated to empowering individuals through innovative, holistic approaches. Originally envisioned as a small private practice on a farm, Courageous Hearts is an inspiring example of business acumen, creativity, and a commitment to helping others. Fully women-owned and operated with a unique business plan, this organization stands apart from its competitors not only as an exceptional supplier but also as a 2024 Superstar in Business.

“From the beginning, our services have encompassed equine assisted psychotherapy, canine therapy, nature-based therapy, and traditional talk therapy. Furthermore, we provide personal and professional development opportunities through workshops, professional education, meditations, retreats, and team discovery,” explains Co-founder and Executive Director Rosemary Baughman. Led by a certified team of professionals, their mental health programs are designed to address issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction recovery, helping clients reduce negative symptoms and adopt healthier coping mechanisms for better life outcomes.

At Courageous Hearts, a trauma-informed approach guides everything they do, emphasizing the question, “What happened to you?” instead of “What is wrong with you?” This philosophy fosters empathy and understanding, creating a foundation for personal and professional growth. Through structured activities involving horses, participants gain deeper self-awareness, engage in reflective discussions, and develop skills that lead to lasting change. “Developing a relationship in the arena with horses and following up with exploratory conversations has proven to foster authentic, long-term transformation,” explains Baughman.

With a deep respect for the value of each person, Courageous Hearts provides the tools and environment needed for clients to discover their own path to healing, and that starts with the environment. Baughman elaborates, “At our offices, we promote kindness, warmth, and meaningful conversations through our welcoming atmosphere. Clients are thrilled to see the horses, cows, ducks, and dogs when they arrive, and many find it calming.”

Additionally, team members are encouraged to take ownership of their personal and professional growth by initiating self-driven projects. This empowerment not only fuels individual development, but also enhances the organization’s collective strength. Family bonds are at the core of the company culture, where unwavering support is shown through both challenges and triumphs. This emphasis on community has created a work environment where team members thrive, not just as professionals, but as individuals connected by mutual respect and care. With the team consistently giving back to the community and actively participating in events such as Veterans Stand Down, the Mental Health Summit, and Delaware Joining Forces, it’s no wonder that Courageous Hearts’ outstanding efforts have gained recognition. The organization was honored as a 2023 Compassionate Champion by Governor Carney and is also a recipient of this year’s Warrior Friendly Business Award. Courageous Hearts also collaborates with community organizations like Compassionate Hearts, Thresholds Inc., and Delaware Joining Forces to raise awareness and further foster community connections.

One of the organization’s proudest achievements is its ability to attract talented and dedicated individuals without active recruitment. The friendly, inclusive atmosphere speaks for itself, drawing people who align with the company’s mission and values. Courageous Hearts is also committed to the continued growth and well-being of its team, with employees receiving regular training and self-care programming at no cost, ensuring they have the tools needed to excel in their roles.

“Family is always a priority at Courageous Hearts, and the flexible work environment allows team members to take time off for important family matters, whether it’s for big life events or something as simple as a child’s runny nose,” Baughman finishes. “This balance of professional excellence and personal fulfillment is what makes Courageous Hearts not just a workplace, but a true community.”