Counseling ServicesIncorporating Equine Connection What We Offer
Compassionate Mental Health Support - With the Restorative Power of Nature and Horses
At High Horses Center for Equine-Assisted Services, we offer clinical mental health counseling that integrates evidence-based practices with the calming presence of nature and horses. Our licensed therapists work with individuals and families to support emotional growth and psychological wellbeing in a setting designed for healing.
Counseling Begins with Arrival
The therapeutic process begins the moment you step onto the farm. The natural rhythms of the land, the quiet presence of animals, and the freedom of open space create a unique environment for reflection, connection, and calm. Sessions may occur indoors, outdoors, or near the horses—each space selected to meet the needs of the individual.
Horse Partner in the Process
Horses are not the therapy themselves—but when appropriate, they become thoughtful, relational partners in the therapeutic journey. Whether grooming, leading, or simply being near a horse, these interactions are guided by a licensed therapist to support emotional regulation, relational insight, and a sense of calm presence.
What is Counseling?
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Counseling at High Horses includes all the foundational elements of traditional talk therapy—such as goal setting, emotional processing, and skill development—but offers the added therapeutic benefits of nature and, when appropriate, horses. These elements help create a calming, nonclinical environment where clients often feel more at ease opening up and engaging in the therapeutic process.
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When appropriate, your therapist may incorporate horses into sessions as a relational and reflective tool. Activities like grooming, observing, or simply being near a horse can support exploration of emotional themes such as trust, boundaries, and communication. The horse's responses provide immediate, honest feedback—offering opportunities for deeper insight and emotional growth in a way that's nonverbal, experiential, and powerful.
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All counseling sessions are conducted by licensed mental health professionals trained in evidence-based practices and, when used, the integration of equine-assisted interventions. Our therapists have specialized experience supporting clients with anxiety, trauma, behavioral challenges, relationship issues, and more—always with a focus on safety, consent, and the client’s unique needs and goals.
Benefits of Incorporating Equine Connection in Counseling
Horses and nature can enhance the therapeutic process in subtle yet powerful ways.
Emotional Awareness - Encourages clients to recognize, name, and understand their emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
Self-Esteem & Confidence - Builds a sense of personal value and capability through successful interactions and self-discovery.
Relationship Skills - Strengthens communication, empathy, and boundary-setting by exploring relational patterns with the horse and therapist.
Stress & Anxiety Reduction - The peaceful farm setting and grounding presence of animals help regulate the nervous system and ease symptoms of stress or anxiety.
Metaphor & Reflection - Horses often mirror client emotions and behavior, creating opportunities for insight, self-reflection, and discussion in the moment.
Nonjudgmental Presence - Horses offer unconditional acceptance—helping clients feel seen, valued, and emotionally safe during the therapeutic process.
Sessions may also include time in nature, gentle movement, mindfulness practices, creative expression, or time with other animals. Whether indoors or outside, each session is guided by the goals and preferences of the individual, creating a supportive space for healing and growth.
A Whole-Person Approach
Counseling That Meets You Where You Are
Our team provides compassionate, personalized care for children, teens, and adults. Sessions may incorporate mindfulness, movement, creative expression, or quiet time in nature. Every element is chosen with intention—to support healing, growth, and lasting change.