Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) is an effective experimental horse-based learning technique that is actively used in mental health treatment.

Designed for individuals and/or groups who wish to develop emotional and personal growth in life through learning to communicate and interact with a horse.

Horses are very spiritual animals. They hold high therapeutic value due to their natural ability to sense, read, and mirror human emotion back to the participant. People will notice that if they change their behavior, the horses respond differently.

The art of working with horses is when you realize that if you can accomplish tasks with a 1,000-2,000 lbs animal, then you can apply these learned skills to other situations in life.

Previous experience with horses is not required in order to participate in sessions. Activities will be supervised and monitored by a certified equine specialist.

Equine-assisted learning is a versatile and inclusive approach that benefits many individuals and groups. Our services are designed to support those seeking personal growth, healing, and connection, including:

• Individuals Facing Emotional or Mental Health Challenges: For those dealing with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or grief, equine-assisted learning provides a safe, non-judgmental space to process emotions, rebuild trust, and promote healing.

• Children and Adolescents with Behavioral or Learning Challenges: Whether facing ADHD, autism, or low self-esteem, young individuals can develop emotional awareness, improve focus, and gain coping strategies through equine-guided activities.

• Adults Seeking Personal Development or Stress Relief: Through meaningful interactions with horses, adults can enhance their leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills while finding relaxation, mindfulness, and stress relief.

• Teams and Organizations: EAL offers powerful team-building exercises that improve collaboration, trust, and communication, as well as professional development focused on leadership and interpersonal skills.

• Individuals with Physical Disabilities: For those with conditions like cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis, equine-assisted activities provide therapeutic benefits, enhancing physical well-being, balance, and muscle strength.

Whether you're seeking to overcome personal challenges, enhance your team's dynamics, or embark on a journey of self-discovery, Quail Ridge Farm offers a unique and effective pathway to growth. With the guidance of our licensed equine specialists and the intuitive presence of our horses, each session is an opportunity for deep reflection and transformation.

Many studies have confirmed the beneficial effects and outcomes an individual develops when participating in equine-assisted learning activities. There has been scientific evidence obtained through qualitative and quantitative methods with different participants and surveys that have shown positive results. Participants were able to become aware of internal struggles that they were unaware of before. Through interacting with a horse, participants reported that they were able to identify these struggles by seeing them mirrored in the horse. These sessions open the door to healing, self-awareness, and a better understanding of ourselves.

A lot of clientele initially fear horses, so it is not uncommon. Sessions are held in a safe environment supervised and directed by certified horse specialists. Equine-assisted activities are also beneficial to overcoming this fear.

We recommend you wear something comfortable. Expect your shoes and clothes to get dirty, so make sure to wear something that is easily washable. Refrain from sandals, open-toed shoes, and steel-toed boots. We encourage you to wear boots and closed-toed shoes with a strong sole. Dress properly according to weather condititions since activities take place outside.