Equine-Assisted Services

Willow Creek Ranch provides comprehensive equine-assisted services—including Therapy, Learning, and Horsemanship Programs for children and adults with special needs or mental health concerns. Through purposeful interactions with horses, our licensed professionals, certified equine specialists, and therapeutic riding instructors support emotional well-being, personal growth, and skill development. Each program offers meaningful opportunities for individuals of all abilities to build confidence, strengthen communication and relationships, and enhance overall well-being in a supportive, nature-based environment.

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy Services
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) sessions are led by a licensed mental health professional and an equine specialist and may include a certified therapeutic riding instructor and trained volunteer. Through equine-assisted psychotherapy individuals, families, and groups can build relationships, improve communication, develop coping skills, and discover personal strengths.

Sessions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual or group. Our experienced team provides ground-based horse experiences to help people facing depression, trauma, PTSD, substance use challenges, relationship issues, and other everyday life concerns.

Equine-Assisted Learning
Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) sessions are led by a certified facilitator guiding individuals or groups through unmounted activities that support education and personal development to set goals such as building confidence, strengthening relationships, improving communication, increasing empathy, and developing critical thinking skills.

Sessions promote essential life skills including self-awareness, problem-solving, social interaction, and healthy coping skills. Additional personal growth and healing sessions may be offered by WCR staff and trained volunteers for retreats or groups seeking self-reflection, nature connection, life skills development, and personal discovery.

Horsemanship Program
Horsemanship Program lessons are led by a certified therapeutic riding instructor and include mounted and unmounted activities designed to support physical, emotional, and cognitive development. Participants build self-confidence, while improving balance, motor skills, communication, social interaction, focus, and enjoyment.

The Horsemanship Program benefits individuals with special needs, including ADD/ADHD, autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, visual impairments, and developmental or cognitive delays. Every activity—whether mounted or on the ground—has a purpose, from brushing and tacking, to leading, feeding a treat, and waiting for a turn, all of which reinforce meaningful learning and growth.

Getting Started
If you are interested in equine-assisted services at Willow Creek Ranch, please send an email to info@willowcreekranch.org indicating which program you are interested in. Once received, our staff will contact you to discuss program options, availability, and whether our services are a good fit for your goals. Due to high demand, some programs may have a waitlist.