Do I need to have experience with horses to try equine therapy?
Not at all. Most people who come to Mustang Magic have little or no experience with horses — and that's completely okay. You don't need to know how to ride or have any prior knowledge of horses to benefit from this work. Our sessions are designed to meet you exactly where you are, and your therapist will guide you through every step of the process at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Is equine therapy safe? What if I'm nervous around horses?
Safety is our highest priority at Mustang Magic — for both the people and the horses in our care. All sessions are led by a licensed therapist and guided with careful attention to your comfort and the nature of the horses we work with. You will never be asked to do anything that feels unsafe or before you are ready.
If you're nervous around horses, that's a completely valid place to start — and honestly, it can become part of the work itself. Many clients find that learning to be present with a horse, even from a distance, is one of the most meaningful parts of the experience. We go at your pace.
What does a typical equine therapy session look like?
Every session is different, because every person is different. Generally, you'll arrive at the property, have a brief check-in with your therapist, and then move into the session itself — which might take place in the arena, pasture, or another outdoor setting depending on what you're working on. Some sessions involve groundwork with the horses, some involve walking or activities alongside them, and some may include simply being in their presence.
Your therapist will guide the experience and help you make meaning of what you notice — connecting what happens in the session to the patterns, relationships, or challenges you're navigating in your life.
What issues or concerns can equine therapy help with?
Equine-assisted psychotherapy can be a meaningful approach for a wide range of concerns, including trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, attachment challenges, relationship difficulties, grief, substance use, self-esteem, and the general experience of feeling stuck or disconnected. It can be especially helpful for people who find that traditional talk therapy hasn't been quite enough — or for those who are drawn to a more experiential, body-based approach to healing.
Do I have to ride the horses during equine therapy?
No. The majority of equine-assisted psychotherapy takes place on the ground — not on horseback. Mounted work (riding) is available as part of the therapeutic process if it feels appropriate and is something you're interested in, but it is not required. Many of the most profound sessions happen entirely from the ground, simply in relationship with the horses.
How do I get started?
The first step is simply reaching out. You can contact us through the Contact page, send us an email, or give us a call. We'll start with a brief conversation to understand what you're looking for and answer any questions you might have. From there, we'll schedule an intake session to begin the process together. There's no pressure — just a conversation to see if we're a good fit.
Do you offer telehealth or in-office sessions as well?
Yes. While much of our work takes place outdoors in the equine environment, sessions can also take place inside when that feels right for you. We recognize that healing looks different at different stages — and we're here to support you in whatever format serves you best.
What is your cancellation policy?