The program will allow the patients to utilize nature and outdoor activities. The equestrian program will be offered in an 11,000 square foot indoor riding facility. The horse program will be operated under the rules of PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International), which is the premier organization for the certification of therapeutic equestrian programs.

Our equestrian professionals started the first US equine assisted therapy program to be used with addiction treatment in 1989, when we started Red Canyon Ranch for adolescent girls. At inception, we created the horse program to conform to the guidelines of The National Association of Riding for the Handicapped (now called PATH), and hired a graduate of Meredith Manor International Equestrian Center with a Master of Social Work as our horse program director.

We had expected the horse program to be a valuable addition to our core treatment program but instead observed that the equine therapy was the most important part of the program. Our observations were corroborated by patient, family, and aftercare counselor interviews.

Since that time, we have continued to develop and refine the techniques that we use today. We designed and implemented a similar horse therapy program for Rocky Mountain Treatment Center where it is an important part of their success.

Core principles of our horse program

We recognize the horse as a co-facilitator with unique attributes as a sensitive herd animal that is capable of providing many different therapeutic uses.

We have developed a program that uses PATH standards for equine assisted therapy and uses the principles of natural horsemanship and other equestrian disciplines that place high value on the physical and emotional welfare of the horse. We value the relationship between the horse and the human.

As research grows with Equine Assisted Therapy, the specific therapeutic benefits are becoming more clear. It is now an evidence based clinical practice. It can be used in conjunction with standard treatment modalities such as CBT, Gestalt, and Attachment-based therapy. It can also be used as Equine Facilitated Learning, which is a form of experiential learning that aids the development of life skills.

Why Is Equine Therapy more effective than other therapies for many people?

Horses are highly sensitive to people. They mirror behavior and provide immediate feedback.

Horses are powerful and can contribute to serenity, confidence, and development of trust.

Horses are nonjudgmental. They project love and acceptance to those who treat them positively (Bachi, Keren. "Application of Attachment Theory to Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy).

Physical contact with horses through grooming and riding can be used to address trauma in a less threatening way.

Grooming also develops internal and interpersonal skills while contributing to the bonding experience.