***UPDATED 10.2026***
Equine-Assisted Services
Strides offers trauma-informed, relationship-based services that support individualized goals through intentional interactions with horses. Our approach recognizes the connection between the brain, body, emotions, and relationships.
All services are provided by qualified professionals working within their education, training, credentials, and professional scope.
Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL)
Equine-Assisted Learning focuses on developing and practicing skills through structured experiences with horses.
Goals may include emotional regulation, communication, problem-solving, confidence, healthy boundaries, relationships, and everyday life skills.
Sessions are typically facilitated by a qualified equine professional with specialized training in relationship-based equine approaches.
Equine-Assisted Trauma-Informed Coaching
Equine-Assisted Trauma-Informed Coaching uses a brain-based, relationship-focused approach to support emotional regulation, self-awareness, connection, healthy relationships, and personal growth.
Through intentional interactions with horses, participants learn to recognize how their emotions, body responses, and past experiences influence their behaviors and relationships. They have opportunities to experience safe connections, practice healthy boundaries, develop regulation skills, and build confidence in navigating everyday challenges.
Sessions are typically facilitated by a qualified equine professional with specialized training in trauma-informed coaching and relationship-based equine approaches.
Equine-Assisted Coaching is non-clinical and does not constitute psychotherapy, diagnosis, or clinical mental health treatment.
Choosing a Service
The appropriate service and provider are determined by the participant's individualized goals, needs, and applicable program requirements.
Strides collaborates with families, referral sources, and service teams to identify an appropriate service and qualified provider.
Not sure which service is the best fit? Contact Strides, and we will help you explore the available options.
For CLTS and CCS participants, services must align with their individualized service plans, applicable program requirements, and county authorization.
Is Equine-Assisted Services a Good Fit?
Equine-Assisted Services may be a good fit for children, adolescents, and adults who would benefit from a hands-on, relationship-based approach to learning and personal growth.
Participants may benefit if they:
* Experience challenges with emotional regulation, communication, relationships, or healthy boundaries.
*Have difficulty expressing emotions or engaging in traditional, conversation-based services.
*Would benefit from building confidence, self-awareness, trust, and problem-solving skills.
*Learn best through movement, experiences, and practicing skills rather than conversation alone.
*Are working toward individualized behavioral, emotional, or relational goals.
No prior horse experience is necessary. Sessions are individualized, and activities are adapted to each participant's needs, abilities, comfort level, and safety considerations.
Determining Appropriateness
Not every participant will benefit from the same approach. Strides considers the participant's goals, interests, support needs, ability to participate safely, and the qualifications of available providers when determining whether equine-assisted services are appropriate.
Our team collaborates with families, guardians, and service facilitators, when applicable, to determine the most appropriate service and level of support.