Veteran Support Organization Offering Equine Therapy
Mission
HORSES FOR HEALING FOUNDATION is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to restoring hope, resilience, and emotional well-being in U.S. military veterans through equine-assisted therapy. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to provide a safe, supportive environment where veterans can heal from the invisible wounds of war—such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, and moral injury—by building meaningful connections with horses.
The Need
Every day, an estimated 17 U.S. veterans die by suicide. Many more struggle in silence, battling emotional pain, isolation, and the long-term effects of trauma. As a dedicated veteran support organization, we understand that traditional talk therapy has its merits, but not all veterans feel comfortable expressing their emotions in a clinical setting. Horses offer something unique: a nonjudgmental presence, immediate feedback, and the ability to connect without words.
Our Approach
HORSES FOR HEALING FOUNDATION employs Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) as evidence-based tools to promote mental health and personal growth. Each session is guided by a licensed mental health professional and a certified equine specialist, ensuring safety and therapeutic integrity.
- No Riding Required: Our work is ground-based, focusing on relationship-building, trust, and emotional regulation.
- Veteran-Centered: We adapt each session to the needs, goals, and comfort levels of participants.
- Whole-Person Healing: Horses reflect our emotions, helping veterans develop self-awareness, communication skills, and confidence.
Benefits of Horses
Horses are incredibly attuned to human emotions. They mirror our feelings and body language, creating powerful opportunities for self-reflection and growth. For veterans who may feel disconnected from themselves or others, this connection can be life changing. Working with horses helps reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure, and improve mood—effects that extend far beyond the barn.
Impact
Since our founding, HORSES FOR HEALING FOUNDATION has served veterans from all branches of the military, including those living with PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and other service-related challenges. Veterans who complete our program often report:
- Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression
- Increased confidence and self-esteem
- Renewed sense of purpose
- Stronger family and community connections
Learn more about our healing and support services for veterans.
Our Vision
We envision a future where every veteran has access to alternative and complementary therapeutic options like equine therapy—no matter where they live or what their financial situation is. We strive to expand our program, train more facilitators, and partner with VA hospitals, veteran service organizations, and military family support networks.
How You Can Help
Your support allows our veteran support organization to provide services at no cost. Donations cover the care and training of our therapy horses, facility upkeep, therapeutic staff, and veteran outreach. Together, we can ensure that those who served our country have the opportunity to find peace, purpose, and healing—one step, one breath, and one horse at a time.