How can Horse Therapy help?

We all get stuck. In our attempt to solve problems we often try harder and harder until we become exhausted and overwhelmed….and STUCK. In traditional counseling you talk about what happened in the past week or what happened in past trauma. You have heard that horses can help…somehow. You wonder how can they help. As animals of prey, horses give honest feedback about communication, leadership, relationship skills, and self-regulation.

They help you see your patterns - good and bad

With equine therapy instead of "just talking" about problems, you will be working with the horses to uncover patterns and mindsets that either help you move forward or keep you stuck. As you work with horses you will play out the same patterns of “trying harder” or “being overwhelmed” but you also have the opportunity to try new approaches or notice small things that are actually working.

They give you clear and honest feedback

As you practice those solutions, they give you feedback. Horses don’t have any agenda other than being safe. And they cannot lie and will let you know clearly what works and what doesn’t. As you practice what works, you will be developing new neural pathways in your brain that lead to healing and real change.

They help you manage anxiety

They are very sensitive to any kind of tension, anxiety or incongruency. In order to develop a good relationship with a horse (or a person), it is vital to learn how to manage your emotions and thoughts in a healthy way. We will help you learn how to manage emotions, let go of unhealthy thoughts and insecurities, and engage in clear communication. As you do this the horses respond by connecting more strongly to you.

Equine Therapy is relationship and solution focused

With horses, you have the opportunity to identify strengths and relationship skills in a non-judgmental environment Then you can practice different solutions until you find one that works! All work is on the ground. You will not do any riding and no horse experience is needed. Just like traditional therapy though, our licensed therapists will help guide the process of goal setting and change. And just like a good coach we are there to help you find your way.