Derek Root
Specialized Professional, U.S. Air Force (retired)
Derek is a retired Air Force officer with 26-years’ experience ranging from the cockpit to the White House Military Office. While aviation was his professional passion, he moved his small livestock homestead around the country five times before finally sinking roots in the Sandhills of North Carolina. Joined by his two youngsters and faithful service canine Casey, he carries on his sense of service by assisting others like him living with traumatic brain injuries and post-traumatic stress.
Although Derek’s everyday equestrian life focused on the practical aspects of horsemanship and care, it was not until he utilized Equine-assisted Psychotherapy that he truly appreciated the value of his four-legged companions. Through his new interaction and focus with horses, he was able to find relief and personal growth that more conventional clinical techniques could not provide. By relying on his success with equine therapy, Derek hopes his experiences can aid others looking for healing and growth in their lives.
Derek’s fusion of military experience and equine therapy participation brings relatable insights to those looking for lifestyle changes. He thinks of himself as a liaison between peer veterans and mental health professionals, comfortably able to translate “huah” to “stat” and “stat” to “huah.” In this intersectional role between military trauma and emotional healing, Derek helps others focus their ingrained servant-leader mindset on a new task and purpose—reintegrating their lives with the world beyond the camouflage using their same mission-focused discipline born while in uniform.
Getting started
Working with Derek
We offer a free 15-minute consultation. We respond as soon as we can. We are accepting new clients.