Horseshoes and Halos Equine Therapy Program

Equine therapy has proven to be an effective tool for victims of child abuse. This specific type of therapy provides victims with an opportunity to learn how to control and work with animals through hands-on experience. This in turn allows the child to mirror these positive interactions with other humans. Careful attention to the horses' body language is key to understanding the child's own emotions. Abuse victims are able to overcome learned helplessness, fear, shame, doubt, blame, anger, sense of worthlessness, and obstacles in life. The relationship and bond between the horse and child builds trust, attachments, and is a source of much needed affection and love. Children learn how to positively mirror the horse. Equine therapy is based on learning human skills, not horse skills, Everything done with the horse is a metaphor for different aspects of life. Therapy will be on the ground, not in the saddle. Children will learn problem-solving, assertiveness, non-verbal communication, creative-thinking, leadership, responsibility, and confidence.