Equine Therapy

Equine Therapy

At Brightquest, Equine Therapy is used to address a variety of mental health conditions, such as mood and anxiety disorders, addiction, and trauma and/or PTSD. Our trained therapeutic and equestrian counselors employ educational components and experiential opportunities so clients can explore core issues and learn new life skills.

What Is Equine Therapy?


Also known as equine-assisted counseling or equine-facilitated psychotherapy, equine therapy is a unique form of psychotherapy that incorporates horses into the healing process. This sophisticated form of therapy can be traced back to ancient civilizations, evolving over the years to become widely utilized in modern mental health care practices.

Through care activities like feeding, grooming, and leading, clients develop a deeper sense of self-worth and confidence, personal responsibility, emotional regulation, problem solving, and trust. All therapeutic activities are led by a qualified mental health professional, not local horse groups, clubs, or trainers.

How Equine Therapy Works for Emotional Growth and Development


Horses are large and powerful, making them naturally intimidating to many people, who may be hesitant to approach them. This creates a wonderful opportunity to overcome fear and emotional challenges in order to develop strong, long-lasting coping strategies. Working alongside a horse, in spite of fears, creates confidence and provides valuable insight when dealing with other intimidating or difficult life situations.

Emphasis is placed on developing skills relative to communication, assertiveness, creative thinking, self-awareness, honesty, relationships and boundaries, trust and empathy, problem solving, work ethic, leadership, responsibility, and teamwork, in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

Equine Therapy at BrightQuest


Equine-assisted programs are held weekly at BrightQuest, providing vast opportunities for metaphorical learning, an effective therapeutic technique. We are partnered with leaders in equine-assisted therapy who offer quality mental health services and educational programs utilizing Equine-Assisted Learning and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy for greater personal growth, team building, and leadership.