About Our Therapy

What is Equine-Assisted Therapy?

Often people ask “Why horses? Is there any science behind it?” and the answer is yes! A human heart produces a small magnetic field, yet a horse’s heart, being x10 larger produces a much more powerful magnetic field. This is so strong that is thought to cause horses in a herd to sync their heart rates, so the herd effectively acts as one unit. Thus, when one horse becomes stressed and increases its heart rate, or vice versa, the whole herd instantly pick up on it. It is this incredible scientific discovery that has been able to link the calming effect horses have on the human body due to having a naturally slower heart rate and larger magnetic field.

Who will lead the sessions?

Currently, all our one-to-one Equine-assisted therapy sessions are led by Stevie who is our CEO and founder. Stevie was a professional horse rider for many years, originally training in Germany with the head of the German Olympic Dressage Federation. Stevie then went on to set up and run one of the South West’s largest equestrian centres. She understands the immense benefit of being around horses with their gentle, forgiving nature. Wanting to share this experience, Stevie went on to complete an integrative counselling course so she could combine her equestrian knowledge and counselling skills to provide a unique service.

Stevie became the Therapeutic programs manager for a large equestrian charity and led the development and implementation of a rehabilitation program for Class A offenders through Equine-assisted therapy. With over 10 years of professional experience in the equestrian industry and 5 years of experience in mental health, Stevie now leads all our equine-assisted therapy programmes with the support of the rest of the team.

Who are the sessions for?

The sessions are for anyone who sees the advantage of good mental health. There is no difficulty that is too mild or too heavy to bring to sessions. Sometimes it’s just nice to take a breath and spend time doing something relaxing and other times there may be more severe mental health difficulties to be faced such as processing grief, dealing with self-harm, eating disorders, depression, anxiety etc. Whatever you use the sessions for, we can promise you will be met with a non-judgmental and supportive environment.

Where are the sessions held?

Our stables are in Hanslope near Sally Forest which is on the border between MK and Northamptonshire. The full address and directions will be emailed to you upon booking.