Equine-Assisted
Psychotherapy
Ground-based experiences with horses that support emotional growth, connection, and healing in partnership with a licensed mental health professional.
Good to know
No riding involved
No horse experience needed
Children, youth & adults welcome
Trauma-informed approach
You don't need to know horses to begin.
You don't need riding experience, horse knowledge, or the “right words.”
Many people come feeling overwhelmed, anxious, disconnected, stuck, or simply curious about trying something different.
At Clarity Equine, we create a supportive environment where horses and people can work together to build awareness, confidence, and connection.
How Sessions Work
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Connect with our team
Reach out and learn whether EAP feels like a good fit.
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Meet the horses
Spend time getting comfortable in the environment.
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Participate in guided activities
Ground-based exercises support exploration and learning.
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Reflect and process
Insights and experiences are explored with your therapist.
What EAP Is (and Isn't)
What it is
✓ Ground based
✓ Guided by therapist + equine specialist
✓ Trauma-informed
✓ Relationship focused
✓ No horse experience required
What it isn’t
✗ Riding lessons
✗ Horse training
✗ Needing horse skills
✗ "Fixing" people
✗ Traditional office therapy
Why Horses?
Horses naturally notice and respond to what is happening around them. As prey animals, they are highly aware of body language, energy, boundaries, and emotional shifts.
Because they respond honestly and without judgment, they can help create opportunities to notice patterns, build awareness, and explore relationships in a different way.
At Clarity Equine, we don't view horses as tools to "fix" people. We see them as valued partners who help create a space where connection, curiosity, and growth can happen.
Present
Horses live in the moment and invite us to slow down.
Honest
They respond genuinely and without judgment.
Connection
Relationships with horses can create meaningful opportunities for growth.
Participants May Experience
Increased confidence
Stronger communication
Improved emotional regulation
Reduced stress
Greater self-awareness
New perspectives
Meet the Team
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Caitlin Heckbert
EC Licensed Western Coach
Equine Specialist
Trauma-Informed Practitioner
Caitlin supports the horse-human relationship and creates a safe environment where learning and growth can happen naturally. -
Wendy Holm
LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL
Wendy provides therapeutic guidance and supports the clinical aspects of sessions. -
Stacey Hutchingson-Maund
LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL
Meet Our Partners.
Our horses are not tools or treatment methods. They are valued partners whose wellbeing and individuality matter. We are fortunate to work alongside a herd of over 30 horses and ponies, each with their own unique personalities and strengths. Their individuality helps create opportunities for connection, learning, and meaningful experiences.
FAQs
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No. Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) at Clarity Equine is completely ground-based. Sessions take place alongside the horses through guided activities, observation, and interaction — there is no riding involved.
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Not at all. No horse experience is needed. You do not need to know anything about horses, and there is no expectation that you know what to do. We guide you through the process in a safe and supportive environment.
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EAP may support children, youth, adults, families, and individuals experiencing a variety of life challenges or simply seeking personal growth and greater self-awareness. Sessions can support areas such as stress, anxiety, emotional regulation, confidence, relationships, communication, and life transitions.
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Each session looks a little different because every person is unique. Sessions may include meeting and interacting with the horses, participating in guided ground-based activities, and reflecting on thoughts, emotions, and experiences with your therapeutic team.
No horse skills are required — there is no right or wrong way to participate.
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Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather and closed-toe footwear such as sneakers or boots. Since sessions take place in a farm environment, clothing that can get a little dusty is recommended.
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Some services may be eligible for coverage through extended health benefits depending on your individual plan. Questions regarding billing, coverage, and insurance can be discussed through our partner team at In Good Time Wellness Collective.
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Our horses are carefully selected and supported for this work, but we view them as partners rather than tools. Their wellbeing, comfort, and individuality are important, and sessions are designed with the wellbeing of both horses and people in mind.
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That is completely okay. Many people arrive feeling unsure or nervous around horses. We move at a pace that feels comfortable, and there is never pressure to interact beyond what feels safe for you.
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The first step is simply reaching out. We can answer questions, discuss whether EAP may be a good fit, and help guide you through the next steps.
Connection begins before words.
Whether you're exploring support for yourself, your child, or simply wondering if this approach feels right, we'd love to connect.
Professional Standards & Partnerships
