Helping Teens Navigate Life’s Challenges with Horses
Adolescence is a time of rapid change, self-discovery, and emotional ups and downs. Many young people struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, or difficulties in relationships.
Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) program provides a unique, experiential approach to healing, integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Gestalt-based principles to help adolescents build emotional resilience, self-awareness, and healthy coping strategies.
How Are Horses Involved in Therapy?
Unlike traditional talk therapy, sessions take place in a natural, outdoor setting where adolescents engage in ground-based activities with horses.
Each activity is designed to support the unique needs for each client, encouraging emotional growth, self-discovery, and problem-solving in a meaningful way. Here are just some of the many ways the herd may show up in session:
Leading a Horse Through a Values-Based Course - Teens identify their core values (such as courage, patience, or trust) and guide a horse through an obstacle course that represents their unique values in life.
Mindful Grooming – Brushing and caring for a horse encourages mindfulness, emotional regulation, and a sense of calm. This practice helps teens stay present in the moment, reduce anxiety, and develop a nurturing connection with the horse.
Boundary & Communication Exercises – Horses are sensitive to nonverbal communication. Through structured activities, adolescents practice assertiveness, setting boundaries, and building trust, skills that transfer to their relationships with peers, family, and authority figures.
Reflective Observation & Connection – Simply being in the presence of a horse can be therapeutic. By observing their body language and energy, teens learn self-awareness and emotional attunement while gaining insights into their own behavior and interactions.
Trail of Thoughts - Map out a situation or problem in the paddock using materials and then walk with a horse to each cone representing thoughts, feelings, behaviors and the workability of these.
Ready to take the first step? Click below to schedule your appointment.
Who can Benefit?
Adolescents (ages 12- 19) who may be experiencing:
- Anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem
- Bullying and peer challenges
- Trauma, including childhood abuse or neglect
- Emotional dysregulation or difficulty managing stress
- Challenges in relationships with family, peers, or authority figures
- Struggles with self-identity, purpose, or life transitions
Assisting adolescents in gaining tools to:
- Recognise and learn to accept difficult emotions
- Stay present in the moment and engage fully in life
- Build confidence in their ability to navigate challenges
- Create meaningful connections with themselves and others
If you’re looking for a compassionate, innovative approach to therapy for your teen, click on the link below to schedule a session.