Therapy with Horses on a Beautiful Farm in Maryland
Individual, Personalized, Private, Experiential, Meaningful Therapy with Horses
Experience therapy on a whole new level, with these gentle giants, conditioned by nature to help us heal, rest, and live mindfully. |
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What is Equine Psychotherapy?
Imagine a brain, that evolved like ours, in an animal that looks quite different.
Horses "get" HumansHorses and humans are both social animals, so neither of us enjoys solitude. Our brains have evolved to steer clear of loneliness. In equine psychotherapy, following the H.E.A.L. model, we explore these "keys" in our brains that foster connection. Essentially, horses possess an intuitive understanding of our needs and can aid in our healing process without the need for verbal communication.
Healing in the MomentResearch demonstrates that the most effective and enduring changes occur through action. This principle is fundamental to equine therapy, where individuals actively engage in learning and experiencing transformation in real-time. This active process provides a secure environment for the brain to encounter new experiences, acquire fresh skills, and undergo personal growth and change.
Herd MagicHorses are big, majestic creatures, but they're also prey animals. This means their first instinct is to stick together for safety and balance, rather than confront threats head-on (although they will if they have to). Spending time with a herd can teach us a great deal about ourselves. The herd's main goal is to keep everyone safe, calm, and free from danger. Being part of a herd is a fantastic way to learn and practice mindfulness in a natural setting. |
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Meet the TherapistCindy Cisneros is a licensed therapist, serving Maryland for over 15 years. She has always had a love for animals, especially horses. Finally able to pursue a relationship with horses as an adult, Cindy knows first hand the therapeutic benefits of building a relationship with these magnificent animals.
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Meet The Horses
SIMON SAYS ("Simon")
Simon is a standard-bred cross chestnut gelding, with lots of love to give. He loves humans, and he quickly took to therapy sessions. To know Simon is to love him- he has converted many people into horse lovers! |
MADE A DECISION ("Guess")
Guess is an appendix bay lead-mare of her own little herd, and takes her responsibilities for the well-being of those around her, seriously. She prefers to "select" her own clients, but if you are one of those lucky enough to be "chosen," you have a friend for life. |
Horse Therapy Benefits
Build Better BoundariesHorses reveal areas where our boundaries are damaged and guide us in repairing them.
Reduce AnxietyHorses, by nature, avoid living in fear, opting instead to mindfully check in with themselves and their herd. By following their lead, we can embrace this mindfulness approach to overcome anxiety and heal.
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Improved Social SkillsHorses, as social animals, communicate honestly and without overthinking, making them excellent teachers of good social skills.
Feel HappierScientists have found that animals, like horses, release chemicals in their bodies that make them feel happy. They also do things like play and get creative to find happiness.
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Trauma ResolutionHorses stay focused on the here and now, helping each other figure out what's safe and what's not. Hanging out with them can help us fix any past experiences that messed up our ability to trust our instincts.
ADHD and Neurodiversity LifeskillsIn horse therapy, you can let go of the usual ways of organizing and learning and make your own routines with the horses, which can help support different ways of thinking and learning.
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Two Beautiful Locations
Silver Hooves Stable
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Coming Soon
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How it Works
Horse therapy sessions are private, one-on-one sessions with your therapist and horse facilitator on a beautiful private farm. They are 45 minutes long and follow an assessment session where we explore your needs and goals for the therapy. It all starts with a free 15-minute discovery call with your therapist- use the contact information below to book or request more information.
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The Latest Horse Things
I regularly try to capture moments of everything from training to therapy exercise practice, to cute horsey moments. Check out some of our latest moments (click to see more, including vids):
