While most of our program at HopeWell Ranch focuses on horsemanship skills, there are times that a participant will find the opportunity for greater growth through equine assisted therapy or learning sessions. These sessions are facilitated by a trained horse specialist and a mental health specialist. Individuals do not ride during these sessions as all sessions are held completely on the ground. Participants are usually in the arena with one or more horses. A variety of activities are offered depending on the participants needs. These activities include interaction with the equine, who is considered part of the facilitator team. These sessions can also be used with more than one individual, such as family, parent, partner, or spouse, as well as groups for team-building purposes.
Equine Assisted Therapy: these services can help people deal with a variety of challenges such as, anger management, low self-esteem, conflict resolution, attachment issues, substance abuse issues, and trauma etc. Equine Assisted Activities and Learning are an experiential approach to incorporating horses in personal development. One of our horse specialists’ partners with one or more of our equine to work with clients to meet their personal goals. Clients do not need prior experience with horses to benefit from this approach. Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies are solution-focused, client-directed, and focused on personal goals rather than horsemanship. Because of the nature of these sessions, participants do need to have an adequate level of cognitive and language skills. Riding is not involved, so these sessions often include our horses that are not rideable. The sessions require a mental health specialist as well a an equine specialist and are offered on a limited basis. Therefore, there is a fee for services. |