Mary Rose's journey in mental health advocacy has been shaped by her dedication to bridging the gap between traditional therapy and alternative treatments. After founding Honey’s, she returned to graduate school and earned a Master of Social Work with honors from Saint Leo University. Her clinical expertise, particularly in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), complements her passion for equine-assisted psychotherapy, which has proven effective for individuals with PTSD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, autism, and veterans.

Throughout her career, Mary Rose has been honored with several prestigious awards, including:

• 2022 Tampa Bay Philanthropy Week Winner

• 2023 NAMI Pasco Heroes of Hope “Unsung Hero” Award

• 2023 University of Central Florida Public Safety Award

• 2024 Tampa Bay Philanthropist of the Year Finalist

• 2024 Equus Film and Arts Festival Winnie Award

These accolades highlight her significant contributions to the mental health field and her unwavering commitment to enhancing the accessibility of therapy services in underserved communities.

In addition to her work with Honey’s, Mary Rose currently serves as a Clinical Social Worker at Lakeland Regional Hospital in the Harrell Family Center for Behavioral Wellness, where she provides therapeutic interventions and case management services to patients with complex mental health needs.

Mary Rose’s efforts have led to impactful partnerships with hospitals, behavioral health facilities, schools, and law enforcement agencies. Through her leadership, Honey’s has introduced equine-assisted therapy in innovative clinical settings, where miniature therapy horses serve as catalysts for healing and emotional regulation, particularly for patients who may resist traditional therapeutic methods. Her work has been recognized for its ability to break down communication barriers and bring comfort to those experiencing trauma, stress, and emotional distress.