Equine Assisted Counselling and Coaching is Coming to Aspire Services!
Aspire Services is excited to announce the launch of Equine Assisted Counselling and Coaching, starting this summer and running through late fall.
What is Equine Assisted Counselling and Coaching?
The goals are similar to those of our traditional coaching and counselling services, but with the incorporation of horses as a tool during sessions. Instead of taking place at our office, these sessions will be held in collaboration with Stable Ground EAL, located approximately 20 minutes north of Barrie.
Why Horses?
Equine Assisted Services have been gaining attention over the last several years as more research highlights horses' unique ability to sense and respond to human emotions.
As prey animals, horses are naturally aware of their surroundings and are highly alert, making them excellent partners and teachers in the process. Their size and presence can also have a powerful impact during sessions, creating meaningful opportunities for learning, growth, and self-reflection.
All horses involved in the program are trained and experienced therapy horses.
What Goals Can Horses Help With?
As mentioned above, horses can be valuable partners in supporting goals related to:
Emotions (recognizing emotions, emotional regulation, and coping skills)
Communication (including non-verbal cues and expressions)
Self care (learning to take care of the horse and relating back to yourself)
Boundaries and social skills (respecting personal space and role-playing conversations in a judgment-free environment)
Self-advocacy and self-awareness
Personal growth and connection
Building confidence and trust
Group opportunities to work on communication and team work
Not Ready to Work Directly With the Horses?
If you feel hesitant about immediately working with the horses, the farm offers many other unique opportunities to benefit from and could include:
Watching the horses interact from outside the paddock
Walking the trails and fields around the farm
Interacting with and observing other farm animals during sessions (e.g., cats, chickens, and donkeys)
Using the outdoor picnic tables for creative activities, worksheets, and other coaching or counselling activities
Whether you choose to work directly with the horses or simply enjoy the calm farm environment, our Equine Assisted services offers a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and connect in a different way. Services can be accessed using OAP, extended workplace benefits, SSAH, and DSO funding.
We look forward to welcoming you to the farm this summer!