Navigating Trauma’s Complexities: Dr. Rhea Hill’s Vision for Equine-Assisted, Integrated, Trauma-Informed Therapy

February 17, 2025

Dr. Rhea Hill’s journey in behavioral health is driven by a deep passion for understanding and addressing the connection between trauma and autoimmune disorders. With a strong foundation in psychology and mental health counseling, she has dedicated over 25 years to healing modalities, transitioning from a licensed massage therapist to mental health counseling, and ultimately to integrated behavioral health. After earning her Doctor of Behavioral Health from Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies in 2024, Dr. Hill has focused her work on understanding the connection between trauma and autoimmune diseases, as well as the impact of equine-assisted therapy on treatment outcomes. Inspired by her own health journey following a systemic sclerosis/scleroderma diagnosis in 2010, she is now pioneering programs that integrate equine-assisted therapy with healthcare providers. With a vision to establish an equine-assisted treatment center specializing in women’s health and holistic care, Dr. Hill is paving the way for transformative advancements in behavioral health. In this interview, Dr. Hill discusses how the DBH program shaped her career path, broadened her expertise in integrated behavioral healthcare, and enhanced her perspective on effective leadership to drive meaningful advancements in behavioral health outcomes.

How has the DBH program transformed your understanding of behavioral health and influenced your career?

The Doctor in Behavioral Health (DBH) program has changed my understanding of the subject and career path. Before this academic journey, my knowledge of behavioral health was primarily theoretical, including essential ideas and methods. However, the DBH curriculum combined intense academic research with practical application, helping me understand behavioral health from multiple angles. Recognizing mental health as part of total health changed my perspective. The biopsychosocial model, which showed how biological, psychological, and social variables affect mental health, was stressed in the DBH curriculum. This comprehensive approach made me realize how complex human behavior is and how important it is to address mental health issues. Effective interventions must target the individual’s surroundings, relationships, and life experiences, not just symptoms. The curriculum also gave me enhanced evidence-based practice training to execute successful solutions. Studies methods and data analysis classes improved my critical thinking and allowed me to evaluate and apply behavioral health studies. This gave me the confidence to contribute to the field’s knowledge base through practice and research.

What innovative approaches or strategies do you believe have the potential to revolutionize the behavioral health landscape?

After the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth has become essential for rural and underprivileged patients. Mobile apps offering CBT, mindfulness, and real-time mood tracking can empower people to manage their mental health actively beyond video sessions. Wearable gadgets that detect physiological signs like heart rate variability can alert users to mental health problems in time.

Physical, social, and environmental aspects affect behavioral health, and integrating mental health with basic care can meet all individual needs. Collaboration between behavioral health professionals and primary care clinicians improves communication and treatment. Community dynamics influence behavioral health concerns, and innovative community-based peer support and outreach programs help fill care shortages. Training community members as mental health advocates can eliminate stigma and provide vital support.

Preventive education is key to changing behavioral health, and school and workplace mental health awareness programs can teach people how to cope before problems emerge. Policy advocacy and systemic change are essential for increasing mental health insurance coverage, community mental health financing, and primary care behavioral health integration.

Researching new therapies, such as equine-assisted therapies, can lead to new treatments for PTSD and severe depression. Strong research methodologies and ethical frameworks are needed to understand and use developing medicines. To transform mental health, technology, care integration across disciplines, community involvement, and push for systemic change are necessary.

Looking back at your DBH journey, what specific insights or skills have you gained that have been instrumental in your professional development?

My experience in mental health (DBH) has given me many insights and skills that have molded my career. This path has enhanced and transformed me, helping me comprehend and handle mental health issues. Cultural competency in mental health was one of the things I learned the most. I realized from my experiences that cultural, social, and economic settings strongly influence mental health difficulties. My practice has benefited from understanding varied perspectives and client cultures. This information has improved therapy interactions by enhancing communication and trust. I now see that cultural humility—acknowledging one’s limits in understanding others’ experiences—is necessary for courteous and effective care.

I have excellent interpersonal skills and cultural competence for client involvement. I base client relationships on active listening, empathy, and validation. Creating a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere where people feel heard has transformed healing. I’ve learned that open-ended questioning and reflecting feelings empower clients and encourage self-discovery.

Developing clinical evaluation abilities has also helped me progress. I can evaluate customers’ mental health issues thanks to my skill in numerous assessment tools and methods. I use interviews, self-reports, and standardized assessment data to create customized treatment programs. This analytical approach has improved my capacity to identify underlying issues and offer appropriate remedies, improving patient outcomes. Working with social workers, counselors, psychiatrists, and community organizations has enabled a more comprehensive approach to patient care. It has also highlighted the significance of lobbying for organizational, systemic changes to increase service access and quality.

Working in mental health may be emotionally draining, so I’ve learned to take care of myself to help others. Regular supervision, social support, and mindfulness help manage stress and prevent burnout. My DBH experience taught me cultural competency, interpersonal skills, clinical evaluation, evidence-based practices, collaborative care, and self-care. These factors have improved my professional skills and reinforced my dedication to helping mental health patients.

What are your future career goals within the behavioral health sector and how do you envision the DBH program contributing to your success?

My future career goals within the behavioral health sector are deeply rooted in my passion for understanding the complexities of trauma and its physical manifestations, particularly concerning autoimmune diseases. I am particularly interested in exploring the underlying factors that contribute to these conditions, especially among trauma survivors. My aim is to advance my understanding and contribute to the collective knowledge within the field, ultimately helping to develop more effective interventions for those affected.

In addition to my research interests, I envision establishing an inclusive equine-assisted therapy center. This center would provide specialized services for individuals aged nine and above, emphasizing addressing women’s health issues. Women face unique challenges in mental and behavioral health, and I am committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where they can explore innovative therapeutic options. Equine-assisted therapy, in particular, holds great promise as it combines physical activity, emotional connection, and a unique form of engagement that can foster significant healing experiences. Ultimately, my goal is to establish a legacy of healing that empowers trauma survivors, particularly women, to reclaim their health and well-being through accessible, holistic therapies.

How do you view the role of leadership in advancing behavioral health outcomes, and in what ways has the DBH program prepared you for leadership positions?

Leadership drives behavioral health results by articulating the vision, promoting cooperation, and executing innovative solutions to complicated problems. Behavioral health providers help organizations handle policy advocacy, community involvement, and care integration concerns that affect mental health services. DBHs must inspire and motivate teams to achieve a common goal. Leaders must promote teamwork, inclusivity, and diversity because diverse perspectives improve problem-solving and innovation. The DBH program taught me the value of transformational leadership. Self-awareness and empathy help me support clients and coworkers, improving outcomes and satisfaction.

Effective local, state, and federal advocacy is needed to improve mental health outcomes. The DBH program taught me about healthcare policy and the socioeconomic determinants of health. As a result, I can effectively advocate for neglected groups and influence policymaking. The degree teaches behavioral health leadership ethics and emphasizes ethical decision-making, giving me the foundations to handle these circumstances appropriately.

Collaboration is another key to behavioral health leadership. Modern mental health issues require a multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare experts, organizations, and community resources. My DBH education stresses collaborative care approaches and allows me to build cross-sector alliances. Learning to connect with varied stakeholders will help me form strong coalitions that improve service delivery and provide comprehensive support networks.

DBHs must also actively promote evidence-based approaches and quality improvement. I’m committed to lifelong learning and data-driven decision-making. I can lead projects that meet client goals and advance the field by examining outcomes and modifying treatments based on empirical evidence. My training has enabled me to implement client-centered care plans that are flexible and responsive to individual needs.

What advice would you give to prospective students or professionals considering the DBH program?

Before starting your DBH program, know your motivation and career goals. Consider how this degree fits your interest for behavioral health and systemic change. Your educational experience will depend on your ambitions, whether you want to work in clinical settings, policy development, or community participation.

Building relationships during your studies can broaden your connections. Use opportunities to collaborate with instructors. Their advice can help you manage the field’s intricacies. In addition, peer connections can promote cooperation, support, and shared learning throughout your program.
Behavioral health requires both theoretical and practical knowledge. Look for conference opportunities or applied projects linked to your interests. This practical experience will strengthen your studies and create networking possibilities. Real-world scenarios bridge theory and practice, preparing you for future challenges.

Behavioral health leaders must develop leadership abilities. Develop leadership and teamwork through courses or extracurriculars. Strong leadership may inspire change and promote collaboration and creativity in organizations, benefiting the communities you serve. Public policy affects behavioral health. Stay current on the latest laws, advocacy efforts, and industry trends. Understanding the policy landscape can help you advocate for systemic changes that increase access to mental health care and reduce disparities.

Dr. Rhea Hill’s journey—from hands-on healing modalities to groundbreaking research in trauma and autoimmune disorders—exemplifies how the Doctor of Behavioral Health program can expand expertise, enhance leadership preparedness, and inspire transformative change. Her vision for equine-assisted therapy, combined with her dedication to integrated behavioral health, is reshaping how providers approach holistic healing. As she continues to turn her visionary ideas into reality, her work serves as a shining example of innovation, compassion, and resilience. Dr. Hill’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the limitless potential of behavioral health professionals to create meaningful, lasting change. For aspiring Doctors of Behavioral Health and leaders within the field of healthcare, her path serves as both inspiration and a call to action—reminding us all that the future of healthcare is built by those who dare to think differently and lead with purpose.

Connect with Dr. Rhea Hill

Instagram: @iamdrrhea and @blissedbeing
Facebook: @blissedbeing
LinkedIn: Dr. Rhea Hill
Website: www.blissedbeing.com

Dr. Rhea Hill on Making an Impact with Her DBH Degree

Check Out Dr. Rhea Hill on the Disruptors at Work Podcast

Disruptors at Work: an Integrated Care Podcast, episode: DBH Students on the Frontline: Serving Communities of Color with Rhea Hill, DBH, LPC, Shadiase Jack LCSW-C, Jerrika Henderson, Clinical Mental Health Counselor, CDR Sean K. Bennett, LCSW, MSWAC, BCD, Jennifer Wims-Madden, MSN, PMHNP-B, and Napoleon Harrington MA, LPC.

Read more

Disruptors at Work: an Integrated Care Podcast, episode: DBH Students on the Frontline: Roe v. Wade Decision – Where do we go from here? with Jeny Rodrigue, LAC, SAP, SAE, Shadiase Jack LCSW-c, Jerrika Henderson, MA, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Rhea Hill, DBH, LPC, CDR Sean K. Bennett, LCSW, MSWAC, BCD, and Pauline Tolentino Pablo, BCBA, IBA.

Read more

Testimonials

“As a member of the AAPI community, I’m very familiar with the barriers to mental health services and the need to break through the glass wall of cultural stigma that prevents many from receiving potentially life–saving treatment. I was the only Asian American person in my master’s cohort, the only Asian American person in many of my clinical work settings, the only Asian American person to walk into many of the professional settings that I pushed myself to show up to. In my current practice, I’m constantly reminded by my patients of how difficult it is to find an Asian American mental health provider, though this reminder constantly informs me that more needs to be done for my community. Day after day, I read stories of Asian American people who die by suicide as a consequence of our culture’s avoidance of mental health topics. As a DBH, my biggest goal is to use my expertise in whole–person care to amplify the conversation around mental health and help my community understand that mental healthcare is not a privilege that we are not entitled to, it is a crucial part of our healthcare that will manifest differently in us than what many Western psychology or psychiatry textbooks will describe, and that our unique experience of mental health issues are valid, important, and is time to be part of the larger conversation.”
Willam Chum, LMHCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - September 16, 2022

“The DBH represents something that I've always embraced in my professional career. And that's collaboration and working across a lot of different disciplines to make sure you’re delivering the best care for the patient. Everything is about being patient centered about finding innovative ways and creative ways to collaborate with other professionals.”
CDR Sean K. Bennett, LCSW, MSWAC, BCDDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - October 10, 2023

“This program will change how you present to the world, not just as a professional but as an individual. Understand this is work but the work is worth it and the journey is undeniably transformative. If you are seeking a doctorate for the title, this is not the program for you. If you are seeking a doctorate to interrupt and disrupt the course of healthcare, then this is the program for you. You won’t find a more supportive program with professors who are dedicated to your success and your education. This program is not about the regurgitation of information. It is about the appropriate applied application of knowledge and information to push forward and become an advocate for equitable and quality care for all.”
Brandy K. Biglow LMHC, CCTP, QSDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - February 5, 2024

“The Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) program has definitely transformed my understanding of behavioral health. Understanding the links between physical and mental health has taught how to make better treatment decisions. The DBH program has also given me insights that otherwise would not be possible and allows me to view individuals through a lens that I was previously ignorant of. This program has helped me grow into a more confident individual, provider, and parent.”
Cory H. Cannady, BCBA, LBADBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - March 13, 2024

“The DBH program has been a pivotal turning point in my understanding and application of behavioral health principles. Recently, the concept of ‘whole person health’ has gained widespread attention in healthcare circles, becoming somewhat of a buzzword. Like many others, I embraced this term, believing in my capacity to deliver comprehensive care.

Prior to my engagement with the program, my approach, albeit well-intentioned, lacked an appreciation for the intricate interplay between physical and mental health. More importantly, the role of unmet social needs as a catalyst for health disparities was a dimension I had not fully integrated into my practice. The DBH program illuminated these connections, offering me a robust framework to understand and address the multifaceted needs of individuals, especially within marginalized communities.

Additionally, the confidence I have gained through the DBH program extends beyond theoretical knowledge. My role as a connector and advocate for these individuals has become more pronounced, driven by a deep-seated commitment to fostering accessibility, equity, and comprehensiveness in care.”
Michelle Stroebel MA, NCC, LCMHC, NADD-CCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - June 12, 2024

“I have worked in behavioral health for the entirety of my professional career starting with college internships up to my current role as Deputy Executive Commissioner of Behavioral Health for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. While I have years of experience in the field, the DBH program at Cummings has framed my perspective as leveraging therapy as a first line of intervention. As a public servant, much of the work I do is usually in the aftermath of crises or when the system is being forced to respond to a service gap. However, the DBH program takes a much more proactive and integrative approach to health. This perspective/approach has the potential to positively shape policy in Texas in my role as a public servant charged with addressing the safety net needs of the most vulnerable constituents in Texas.”
Trina K. Ita, MA, LPCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - July 10, 2024

“CGI feels like a community of long-lost cousins that finally met as adults and we realized that we share the same goals. The support from the faculty and classmates have been nothing short of amazing. I can reach out to my advisor at any given time to discuss course work, career endeavors, or to just vent about life. There is a feeling of closeness and belongingness at CGI that is just unmatched. I am very happy to be a member of the family and will continue to spread the word of how great this DBH program is.”
Michelle Francis, LCSW/LICSW-QSDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - September 10, 2024

“The DBH program’s mission, purpose, and objective say it all: We strive for intentional care outcome improvement practices that exemplify whole person-centered integrated healthcare advanced competency. The program of study drives insights and awareness of the ever-changing patient population and multidisciplinary practice environments to change how the world experiences healthcare. This is further reinforced by the pillars of medical literacy, integrated behavioral health intervention, and entrepreneurship skills and expertise. Development growth is needed to prepare the aspiring DBH for the future of the shifting healthcare marketplace through international networking in a growing community of disruptive innovators and an evolving movement toward systemic healthcare change. I feel that I will be positioned alongside a fellowship of like-minded professionals trying to improve the quality of healthcare service delivery value and outcome sustainability.”
Jose Mathew, LCSW, LAC, ACS, EMDR-T, CCTP-IIDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - October 8, 2024

“The DBH program has reinforced my vision of viewing behavioral health (BH) as an integrated component of the healthcare system rather than a siloed service. As a practitioner in the focused BH realm of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, I observe on a regular basis how identifying and serving SUD patients is often missed, ignored and stigmatized in primary healthcare, despite the fact that early intervention at these check-points often has the potential to intervene earlier and lessen the negative SUD outcomes frequently seen by the time a patient reaches specialty SUD services. Reinforcement received in my DBH program has motivated me to promote integration as a leader in my workplace and is a primary factor in considering the long-term trajectory of my individual career path.”
Kenneth L. Roberts, MPS, LPCC, LADCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - November 5, 2024

“By becoming a DBH, I have found that I am able to have different conversations with different people. Before having my doctorate degree, I was able to speak to certain items in behavioral health, but was only seen as a licensed therapist where as a doctor, I am able to speak to the changemakers and policy makers in a more collaborative manner which then allows us as a group to enhance the services we are providing. I also found that as a DBH, my confidence in the treatment room has improved immensely and cases that may have been more difficult for me before are no longer as difficult due to the training I have received in the program.”
Dr. Allison Earl, DBH, LPC-SDBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - November 13, 2024

“I think the DBH is quite groundbreaking, it allows you to study from anywhere in the world. The support is fantastic, and you can make out of the DBH what you want. Unlike standard professional doctorates, the DBH was trying to break new ground, not trying to go over just old ground. It greatly encourages its students to be those people who break new ground.

As a person who actually has a disability, I found CGI staff to be very supportive, very accommodating. If I need extensions, they are always there. In fact the staff will reach out and check on you, if they haven’t heard from you in a very short period of time. Which I have never had from any other university.

I find the community of fellow DBH students absolutely wonderful, we reach out across numerous social media platforms, we email each other. Doesn’t matter where I am in the world or where they are in the world, everyone is supportive. Its support, support and encouragement with the DBH.”
Jason P. Sargent, B Policing, GDip Psych, MSW, JPDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - December 10, 2024

“Graduating from the DBH program has influenced and enhanced my approach to addressing behavioral health challenges and making a difference in the field by preparing me to become a serious business owner. Through the DBH program, I understand now that becoming a business owner not only assists me in reaping the financial benefits of working for myself, but the program also offers me a sense of freedom to make a difference in an individual’s life.”
Dr. Rebecca K. Wright, DBH, LBA, BCBA, QBADBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - December 18, 2024

“I have always wanted to pursue a higher degree but never found a program that met my needs. When I investigated the DBH program, I can honestly say I was excited. It was a program that would expand my knowledge in behavioral health but also how it relates to physical health. The philosophy of treating the whole person was exactly what I was looking for.”
Elizabeth Nekoloff, M.Ed., LPCC-S, NCCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - January 16, 2025

“Prior to obtaining my DBH, I practiced behavioral health within the boundaries of behavior analysis. The DBH degree has given me the ability to broaden my scope of competence allowing me to provide a higher quality of care to my clients through a person-centered approach, while still staying within my scope of practice. I was in the beginning stages of opening my business when I enrolled in the DBH program which set my trajectory towards being a stronger leader. The program equipped me with essential healthcare leadership and entrepreneurial skills, allowing me to ensure high-quality services for my clients and foster a supportive work environment for our staff. It has also given me the confidence to expand my business and pursue other healthcare ventures, reaching a broader range of patients in need.”
Dr. Pauline Tolentino Pablo, DBH, BCBA, IBADBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - January 21, 2025

“Although I have worked with many patients who have mental health diagnoses, or behaviors which make managing their medical diagnoses and day to day life difficult, the DBH program at CGI is broadening that knowledge and providing a deeper understanding of behavioral health and how best to help these individuals manage their health and improve their quality of life. This will allow me to provide and advocate for more meaningful and seamless integrated care, providing new tools for my intervention toolbox, and the confidence and skills to collaborate within and lead whole person focused interdisciplinary teams. I also anticipate building upon my knowledge as a nurse case manager and long time caregiver, as well as my personal passions and professional vision, learning about processes and operations, to be in position to start up and lead my own company one day, offering the services and care I know every person should have access to.”
Hollie Wilson, MSN, RN, CCMDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - February 11, 2025

“The Doctor in Behavioral Health (DBH) program has changed my understanding of the subject and career path. Before this academic journey, my knowledge of behavioral health was primarily theoretical, including essential ideas and methods. However, the DBH curriculum combined intense academic research with practical application, helping me understand behavioral health from multiple angles. Recognizing mental health as part of total health changed my perspective. The biopsychosocial model, which showed how biological, psychological, and social variables affect mental health, was stressed in the DBH curriculum. This comprehensive approach made me realize how complex human behavior is and how important it is to address mental health issues. Effective interventions must target the individual’s surroundings, relationships, and life experiences, not just symptoms. The curriculum also gave me enhanced evidence-based practice training to execute successful solutions. Studies methods and data analysis classes improved my critical thinking and allowed me to evaluate and apply behavioral health studies. This gave me the confidence to contribute to the field’s knowledge base through practice and research.”
Dr. Rhea Hill, DBH, LPCDBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - February 17, 2025

“The DBH program will open opportunities for me to contribute to healthcare system innovation, particularly through trauma-informed care and integrated behavioral health settings. I will be better positioned to advocate for and implement holistic care models that improve health outcomes for underserved populations. Ultimately, this program will help me transition into higher-level roles, such as a director or consultant in behavioral health, where I can influence broader system changes and contribute to the future of healthcare delivery.”
DeKyn Rashad Peters, MPH-CHES,BSW/BA,APCDBH Candidate, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - March 4, 2025

“The DBH program has been integral in preparing me for leadership roles by providing a solid foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of leadership within the behavioral health sector. Through coursework, case studies, and hands-on experiences, I have learned to lead with empathy, data-driven decision-making, and strategic planning. The program has also honed my skills in organizational development, communication, and policy advocacy, equipping me to effectively lead teams, drive impactful change, and foster environments that promote positive behavioral health outcomes. With this training, I am confident in my ability to lead initiatives that address systemic barriers and improve care delivery.”
Dr. Jerrika Henderson, DBH, CMHCDBH Alumna, Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies - March 18, 2025

DBH Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Rhea Hill, DBH, LPC