Meet Mallory Nicklas | Program Director/ Therapist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mallory Nicklas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mallory, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness” – Desmond Tutu This quote embodies what Mustard Seed Ranch strives to impart on the clients that go through the program. They’ve all experienced darkness, many with significant trauma, but learn what hope can look and feel like through working with the horses and their therapist Mallory.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Mustard Seed Ranch is a charitable non profit that provides equine assisted therapy to youth in Colorado and California. Mustard Seed ranch intentionally connects struggling youth and horses to be the catalyst in changing unhealthy patterns of behaviors, offering healing through the relationship of a horse. Operating now for over 20 years, MSR has been able to work with leading psychologists and therapists to develop a 16 week curriculum that targets specific underdeveloped skills for youth who have experienced trauma. Having a curriculum that is backed by research sets Mustard Seed Ranch apart from other equine assisted therapy programs. Since Mustard Seed Ranch does not currently have land of it’s own, we depend on the relationships of different barn owners to allow us to operate out of their facilities, which can be challenging, but it also allows us to have a presence in different counties and communities. Since Mustard Seed Ranch does not charge for services, we also depend on donors and supporters to fund our programming. I think once people see the impact of the program, supporting it isn’t a question.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’d say the best way to start the day is with a Pilates class at Fierce45, it’s not your typical Pilates, it is one of a kind that makes all of your muscles shake! No matter the season time outdoors is a day well spent, leaving the city for the afternoon for a day or two for some different scenery is a treat and close by is Evergreen. With many different trails to explore, there is no shortage of easy access to beautiful views for every hiking level. Creekside Cellars is staple in Evergreen, with fabulous wines and food, it’s a perfect place to unwind. While in Evergreen, if further relaxation is needed, there is no place like Tallgrass Spa. Whether it’s for a mani and pedi or a deep tissue massage, you’ll be sure to have a wonderful experience. Cucumber water and hot tea in their quiet room with the fireplace is sure to ease any tension you may have. When back in the city, grabbing a cocktail at Union Station for Happy Hour before heading over to Tavernetta for dinner, is an ideal night out. Sunday Vinyl is also close by, providing a wonderful menu as well. A day is never wasted shopping in Cherry Creek, with lunch at True Foods, and dinner at El Toro. With so many new establishments opening across the neighborhood’s, there is no shortage of options for good food and entertainment in Denver!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Mustard Seed Ranch wouldn’t be able to serve all the deserving youth we do without the support of our partner facilities, volunteers, and donors. We’d like to thank Bear Paw Connections, CSU Spur Temple Grandin Equine Center, and Robin’s Nest Foundation for hosting us at your facilities, without you opening your doors, we wouldn’t be able to provide our services. To all of our volunteers that show up each week for our clients, providing healthy relationships, encouragement, and support, you truly make our program special! And to the donors who allow us to provide our services to the most vulnerable youth at no cost, thank you for your continued support!

Website: www.mustardseedranch.org

Instagram: mustard.seed.ranch

Facebook: Mustard Seed Ranch-Colorado

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16CYpBz1oNM