What is Equine assisted psychotherapy?

It is a collaboration effort between a mental health professional and a horse professional working with the people and horses to address personal and/or treatment goals. The HELP program provides a safe space to explore, problem solve, overcome challenges, and in general, discover one’s self more fully. This powerful and unique therapy touches the heart and brings about change.

The focus of equine assisted psychotherapy is not riding or horsemanship.

No previous experience with horses is necessary. The focus is setting up ground activities involving the horses which will require the Individual or group to apply certain skills. There will be no riding of horses involved.

Reasons to use Equine assisted psychotherapy.

It’s effective by revealing the REAL problem, quickly, while keeping people engaged. This therapy can be utilized by individuals, couples, families, and even groups.

equine assisted psychotherapy can assist with:

• Emotion Management

• Conflict Resolution

• Communication

• Responsibility

• Self-Confidence

• Respect

• Relational Skills

• Setting Boundaries

• Empathy

• Choices/Consequences

• Peer Pressure

• Self-Worth and Self-Confidence

• Attitude

• Motivation

• Anger Management

getting started

The HELP program runs from May to October. We have arenas located in both Topeka and Atchison, Ks.

Please call us at (785) 272-0778 or (888) 383-2322 to schedule.

additional information:

We are able to bill most insurance companies for Equine Therapy. Your insurance will be checked after the initial gathering of information. For those who are uninsured we do offer a Private Pay route.

our mental health facilitators:

Deborah Myers, LSCSW, LMAC, EAGALA Certified Learn More About Deborah

Stephanie Wessel, LPC, LMAC, EAGALA Certified Learn More About Stephanie

Dana Ober-Watts, Equine Specialist, EAGALA Certified Learn More About Dana