Yes, this program is designed with you in mind! Our “Horses Without Pressure” introductory session offers a gentle, no-pressure introduction to working with horses. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with our calm, experienced herd in a safe and supportive environment, allowing you to take things at your own pace. Many of our participants who have been fearful of horses have found this experience both empowering and transformative. These 1-1 sessions are guided with your Lead Facilitator, Elissa, in a private setting where every step is at your own pace, on your own terms. We understand taking the first step into the arena takes a lot of courage and vulnerability, we’re here to ensure you’re comfortable the entire time! We take pride in knowing many of our first time participants have overcome debilitating anxiety around horses in just one session, removing the barrier to access the power in equine-assisted activities for their future!

Not at all. This program does not require any prior experience with horses. We always put safety first and each program begins with an orientation that includes safety and interpreting the many ways horses communicate.

In Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) horses are valued partners and guides. They offer immediate feedback through their responses to participants’ actions and emotions, aiding in the development of essential life skills such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving. Horses naturally assist in the process, supporting individuals in exploring personal goals and challenges, and fostering self-awareness, emotional regulation, and confidence. Overall, horses play a crucial role in guiding participants on journeys of learning, self-awareness, and personal development through their remarkable sensitivity and non-verbal communication skills.

At Authentically Rooted Wellness, horses are valued partners and facilitators in the Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) process. They provide immediate, honest feedback through their natural responses to participants’ actions and emotions, which helps develop key life skills such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving. Our horses support participants in exploring personal growth, overcoming challenges, and fostering self-awareness, emotional resilience, and confidence. Through their remarkable sensitivity and non-verbal communication, horses play an integral role in guiding individuals on their journeys of healing, learning, and personal development.

For safety, simple things like closed toe shoes. Also, dress in clothes suitable for the outside temperature (our facility is heated, but can still remain cool during the winter) and that you are ok if it gets a little dusty or dirty.

For public group youth programs, you’re free to drop off and pick up or wait in our loft area that overlooks the arena. For private bookings and larger groups, we may require adult(s) to accompany based on the needs and size of the group.

No. All of our activities are non-mounted. The horses are a part of your team and you will work alongside them to connect with a new style of communication. This way the horse can be their true self and you can be your true self.

In an Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) session, participation is experiential and hands-on. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed into a safe, welcoming space where you will meet your facilitators and equine partners. Throughout the session, you’ll engage in activities that are designed to foster personal growth, communication, and emotional resilience. These may include guided interactions with the horses, such as leading, grooming, or navigating obstacles, which provide immediate, non-verbal feedback from the horses. You’ll be encouraged to reflect on your experience and share your thoughts and feelings with your facilitator, who will help you process any insights gained during the session. The focus is on moving at your own pace, with no pressure, in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. By participating in these hands-on activities and reflecting on your interactions with the horses, you’ll discover new ways to develop self-awareness, build confidence, and enhance life skills.

We understand the need for a comfortable environment. Fortunately, our programs are held in a large open-space, indoor arena; making it optimal in the summer or winter.

Each retreat, workshop, or session at Authentically Rooted Wellness is tailored to the specific needs of the participants. A one-time session typically lasts around 60-70 minutes, while full-day workshops or retreats offer a more immersive experience. Depending on the program, you’ll engage in activities with our horses that may include leading, grooming, or navigating obstacles, all guided by a trained facilitator. The length and structure of each session will vary, but all are designed to offer a unique and impactful experience.

Yes, we are sure you will! In fact, you are already familiar with the kind of feedback horses can offer you. You understand that horses can “feel” everything when you are interacting with them. An experience of EAL may deepen your knowledge and appreciation of just how this non-traditional way of being with horses can be, and show you how you might view and understand horses at an even deeper level.