About Operation HOPE—Healing Through Connection with Horses, Nature, and Each Other

We help people heal through connection—to themselves, others, and the world around them. By blending traditional therapy with the power of nature and horses, we offer a new kind of mental health support for individuals who haven’t felt seen in clinical settings.

Located in Monmouth County, NJ, we provide equine-assisted psychotherapy, eco therapy, and talk therapy (including Telehealth) for clients ages 12 and up. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or everyday stress, we’re here to guide you toward lasting change—gently and intentionally.

With a Master’s in Social Work from Monmouth University and a Bachelor’s from the University of Miami, Sara Velez brings years of experience working with individuals, families, and those in recovery from addiction and mental illness. Her approach is compassionate, intuitive, and deeply rooted in trauma-informed care.

Sara founded Operation HOPE to create a space where therapy didn’t feel clinical—but instead felt like coming home. With her equine certification through EAGALA and her lived experience as a caregiver and mental health advocate, Sara helps clients feel seen, grounded, and safe—whether they’re standing beside a horse or meeting virtually through Telehealth.

Brooke Lichter has dedicated her life to the healing connection between animals and people. After volunteering with the Monmouth County SPCA and working at a therapeutic riding center, Brooke went on to earn both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from Monmouth University with a concentration in clinical practice with children and families.

She is certified through EAGALA as an Equine Specialist and has a special gift for guiding clients through equine-assisted psychotherapy in safe, grounded, and empowering ways. For Brooke, Operation HOPE is more than a career—it’s a calling to help others find peace through presence, nature, and connection.

Mocha is a sweet and soulful Black Mouth Cur hound mix who brings warmth and calm wherever she goes. Rescued from Louisiana at six months old, Mocha has grown into a smart, affectionate, and intuitive companion who plays a special role in our practice.
Mocha got her name from Brooke’s love of coffee and because, just like your favorite mocha drink, she’s warm, comforting, and irresistibly sweet.

A proud graduate of the AKC Canine Good Citizen program, Mocha is currently on her way to becoming a certified therapy dog. She loves cuddles, hikes, agility courses, and showing off her impressive repertoire of tricks. She also adores spending time with other dogs and being out in nature.

Because of her rescue background, Mocha sometimes needs a little time to warm up to new people, but once she does, she’s all in with tail wags, snuggles, and love. Her sensitivity to human emotions makes her a natural fit for therapeutic settings, and clients often find her presence grounding and comforting.

Mocha is honored to be part of our healing space and looks forward to supporting clients on their journey—one gentle paw at a time.

Bluemont Equine Sanctuary – Colts Neck, NJ

A nonprofit focused on rescuing and rehabilitating horses in need.

3 Sisters Forever Rescue – Freehold, NJ

A rescue dedicated to giving equines a second chance, aligned with our mission of healing through connection

We believe therapy should be accessible. That’s why we:

• Accept Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ for talk therapy and eco therapy.
• Offer superbills for out-of-network reimbursement.
• Provide scholarship support for veterans receiving equine-assisted therapy.
• Engage the community through events, workshops, and education.

Every session also helps care for our rescue horses—making healing a full-circle experience.