Meet our staff, the heartbeat of teen wellness and healing at Rustic Way Ranch, an equine-assisted psychotherapy center for teens struggling with mental health.

Our Staff

Meet the Heart and Soul of Rustic Way Ranch: Our Compassionate Staff. Guided by years of experience and a shared commitment to teen wellness, they bring our mission to life.

At Rustic Way Ranch, our staff forms the cornerstone of our therapeutic environment. With their diverse backgrounds, profound expertise, and unwavering dedication, they cultivate a space where teens can thrive. Each team member brings unique skills and experiences, united by a common goal: to nurture the mental and emotional well-being of every teen we serve. Their passion and work ethic are evident in the transformative changes we witness in our participants, embodying our commitment to fostering resilience, healing, and joy in young lives.

Laura Lyn Bell, M.A., LPC

Counseling Program Director

Laura Lyn brings over two decades of experience in professional counseling to Rustic Way Ranch. A University of North Texas and Amberton University alumna, Laura Lyn is known for her warm, encouraging demeanor, and her approach to holistic and integrative care.

She focuses on understanding each teen's unique needs, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and accepted. Laura Lyn excels in both individual and family sessions, skillfully guiding teens on their path to healing.

Her passion for reading, painting, and music adds a creative dimension to her therapy sessions, making her a beloved figure at the ranch.

Courtney Wilson

Horsemanship Program Director

Courtney brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, with a background in Equine Science and Psychology from North Dakota. Over five years, she served as an Equine Specialist, managing a barn and a 20-horse herd, while developing a curriculum that merges horse training with transformative counseling techniques. She's proficient in teaching Levels 1-3 Horsemanship and EAGALA, among other equine-assisted activities.

Her advocacy extends beyond horses, having worked with victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and homelessness. Courtney also holds certifications as an NR-EMT, in trauma-informed care, and non-violent crisis interventions.

Her bright, bold, compassionate, and insightful nature, coupled with her view of the barn as a "safe space," drives her passion to create such environments for others, especially young people in need.

Join Our Supportive Team

At Rustic Way Ranch, every hand makes a difference. Don your boots or gloves and volunteer alongside our dedicated staff to help guide teens on their journey of healing and growth.