Chloe's Place
What is Equine Assisted Psychotherapy?
Equine-assisted psychotherapy is a form of experiential therapy that takes place alongside horses. The focus isn’t on riding or horsemanship skills, but on relationship, awareness, and emotional regulation.
In experiential therapy, we work through real experiences rather than only conversation, using what happens in the moment to build understanding, regulation, and change in a way that feels natural and grounded.
Horses are highly attuned to nervous systems and respond honestly in the moment. This makes them powerful partners in therapeutic work, especially for clients who struggle to put feelings into words.
Do I (or my child) need experience with horses?
No horse experience is needed at all. Many clients arrive feeling unsure or even a little nervous around horses, which is completely okay. Sessions are always guided, grounded in safety, and adapted to each person’s comfort level. Much of the work happens simply through observation and presence.
Who do you work with?
I work with children, teens, adults and families in Connecticut. Clients often come in navigating anxiety, trauma, emotional regulation challenges, life transitions, or neurodivergence. Some are drawn to this work because traditional talk therapy hasn’t felt like the right fit.
What does a session usually look like?
Sessions don’t follow a rigid formula, and often take place outdoors.
Some sessions involve movement and interaction with animals. Others are quieter and more reflective. We may spend time outside, engage in play or creative expression, or simply notice what’s happening in the body and environment.
We move at a pace that feels safe and supportive.
Is this therapy “instead of” traditional talk therapy?
It can be either. For some clients, this is their primary form of therapy. For others, it complements ongoing talk therapy. We’ll talk together about what makes the most sense for you or your child.
What if my child doesn’t want to talk?
That’s okay. Many children (and adults) process experiences through movement, play, or connection rather than conversation. Therapy here does not rely on constant talking. Often, meaningful work happens without many words at all.
Is this appropriate for trauma work?
Yes, when done thoughtfully and at the right pace.
This work is grounded in nervous system regulation and safety. We prioritize stabilization and attunement before moving into deeper exploration. Nothing is forced, and clients are always supported in staying within their window of tolerance.
What about safety?
Safety is central to everything we do.
Sessions are facilitated by a licensed mental health professional with training in equine-assisted psychotherapy. Horses and other animals are carefully selected, and interactions are always guided and intentional.
