Healing with Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy takes place at North Country Ride in Esko, MN, and is ideal for those who haven’t found success with traditional talk therapy. This modality leverages the therapeutic power of horses to facilitate healing.

How Does Equine-Assisted Therapy Work?

Equine Assisted Therapy at Northern Edge Counseling integrates the unique bond between humans and horses to foster emotional and psychological healing. Conducted at North Country Ride in Esko, MN, this therapeutic approach involves direct interaction with horses, allowing clients to explore and process their emotions in a non-traditional setting.

The Benefits

Emotional Awareness

Horses mirror human emotions, helping clients gain insight into their own feelings and develop better emotional regulation.

Enhanced Communication Skills

Working with horses improves non-verbal communication and relational skills, translating to better interpersonal relationships.

Trauma Recovery

The calming presence of horses supports trauma healing, helping clients build resilience and a stronger sense of self.

Signature Psychotherapy Program

Who is Equine Assisted Therapy For?

Have not found success with traditional talk therapy
Are dealing with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, or depression
Struggle with ADHD or autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Experience relational difficulties or social anxiety
Seek personal growth and improved emotional regulation

The History of Equine Assisted Therapy

Equine therapy has a rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations where horses were revered for their calming and therapeutic presence. Modern equine-assisted therapy emerged in the 1960s, initially focused on treating physical disabilities. Over the decades, its psychological benefits have been increasingly recognized, leading to its current status as a well-established therapeutic practice supported by extensive research and clinical application.

Equine Assisted Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer a free consult to check the fit of the therapist-client relationship?

Yes, we offer a free consult to check the fit of the therapist-client relationship. Contact Us Here!

How can I schedule an appointment?

To schedule an appointment, you can call us at (insert phone number) or use our online booking system available on our website. Our administrative staff will assist you in finding a convenient time for your session.

What can I expect during a session? What does it look like?

Sessions work at the pace that the client is comfortable. We explore how horses respond to humans, how they mirror our emotions and thoughts, and how we can change the relationship by changing our own thoughts, energy, and responses to emotions. Horses are highly attuned animals (prey animals) and are super aware of their environment, this makes them a really solid companion for therapy for those who struggle to have solid human-to-human relationships, or seemingly struggle to feel effective in communicating with others.

What are your fees and do you accept insurance?

Our fees vary depending on the type of service and the therapist you see. We accept a range of insurance plans and also offer self-pay options. For specific information regarding fees and insurance, please contact our office.

How often do I need to attend therapy? What’s the time commitment?

Equine assisted psychotherapy should take place weekly to every two weeks. Each session will be 50-60 minutes in length.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?

If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please notify us at least 24 hours in advance. This allows us to offer the time slot to another client. Late cancellations or missed appointments may incur a fee.

Are my sessions confidential?

Yes, all counseling sessions are confidential. We adhere to strict privacy standards and ethical guidelines to ensure that your personal information and discussions remain private.

Where are the sessions held?

North Country Ride, 180 Hatinen Road, Esko MN