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Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy 

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Equine-assisted psychotherapy is a form of experiential therapy that incorporates supervised interaction with horses to support emotional regulation, self-awareness, and social skill development.

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Working alongside horses creates opportunities for real-time feedback, emotional awareness,
and regulation in a more natural, hands-on environment.

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This approach can be particularly helpful for individuals experiencing anxiety, emotional regulation challenges, social difficulties, or feeling stuck in more traditional talk therapy.

Equine-assisted psychotherapy offers a different way to engage in therapy, especially for those who don’t connect with traditional office-based settings.

Who can benefit from
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy?

Children, youth and adults with the following concerns can likely benefit from Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy:​

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  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

  • Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

  • Trauma

  • Grief

  • Depression

  • Anxiety

  • Adjustment concerns

  • Relationship dynamic issues

  • ​and other mental health concerns

What are the Benefits of
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy?

  • Learn through experience

  • Improve self-awareness

  • Increase empathy

  • Enhance social skills and awareness

  • Boost confidence and self-esteem

  • Improve self-regulation and coping skills

  • A better understanding of oneself and interpersonal relationships

  • Increase joint attention and social thinking skills for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

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A 2026 Swedish university study found equine-assisted therapy associated with improved self-esteem, greater presence, and reduced emotional distress in children and adolescents (Halmstad University, 2026).

 

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Horse Whisperer
Girl with Horse

This program was developed and is clinically
overseen by:


Dr. Angela Fountain (Ph.D., C.Psych., Registered Psychologist, Founder)

Dr. Emily Jones (Ph.D., C.Psych., Registered Psychologist, Director of Clinical Operations) 

Her doctoral research specifically examined the impact of equine-assisted therapy on children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Robin Perry (C.Y.W., Registered Psychotherapist)

 

Clinical facilitators:

Dr. Angela Fountain (Ph.D., C.Psych., Registered Psychologist, Founder)
Dr. Carly McDonell  (Psy.D., C.Psych., Supervised Practice)
Shelly Buckingham (M.Ed., C.Psych., Registered Psychologist),
Robin Perry (C.Y.W., Registered Psychotherapist)
Julie Hernden (RP Qualifying)
Alexandra MacTavish (Psychology Doctoral Resident)
Mila Popovic (Psychology Doctoral Resident)
 

Equine specialists:

Every session is also supported by a dedicated equine specialist who manages horse welfare and safety throughout.

 

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Last reviewed: September 2026

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