Julie Rylatt is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been providing services to children and families in the Rockford area for over 25 years. She graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Colorado State University and she obtained her Masters of Social Work from Aurora University. Julie holds a Type 73 certification as a school social worker and as a Professional Educator.

Ms. Rylatt worked in the field of Child Welfare for over 20 years, and provided training to the Rockford Police, Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department and the Rockford School staff. Ms. Rylatt developed a program combining children in foster care with dogs given to rescue, teaching the children the skills necessary to re home the dogs. She has an interest in providing animal assisted therapy to her clients in an appropriate setting.

Julie was fortunate enough to purchase a farm on the southwest side of Rockford that has a barn, an arena and 20 acres of land that can utilized for equine and animal therapy with families and individuals. Julie is excited to use these interventions with reunification counseling as it will be a hands on and interactive way to learn new and productive ways to communicate and problem solve. Julie has dogs and numerous cats on the property as well, and Julie believes that nature and the outdoors are critical to an individual’s wellbeing. Julie is certified as a mental health specialist and equine specialist through EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association). Julie is especially interested in utilizing equine therapy with first responder groups treating compassion fatigue. This is a non-riding program that is helpful with all individuals, and they do not need any experience with horses.

Julie enjoys spending time with her grown children and her animals. She runs Willow Creek Farm Animal Rescue, (not for profit) and is invested in helping horses that are sent to auctions and slaughter and advocates for their safety. Julie is especially interested in pregnant mares going through this process. These horses may become part of the equine therapy program once they are rehabilitated and determined to be safe with children. Julie would like for children to become interested in these programs to create interest in animal welfare.