Equine-Assisted Learning Programs

Discover the transformative power of Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) at H.U.G.S. Ranch

Welcome to H.U.G.S. Ranch, where our equine assisted learning programs aim to create a nurturing environment for children, families, women, groups, and corporations to experience the transformative power of EAL. Rooted in the principles of hope, understanding, grace, and support, our sessions are crafted to foster personal growth, healing, and encouragement.

Individual One-on-One Sessions

  • For children ages 5-18

    Experience a tailored journey of mental, emotional, physical, and social healing with our one-on-one sessions, available in 4-week blocks during the spring, summer, and fall. Crisis sessions are available by appointment.

    Our goal is to provide an experience where children and teens can be mentored and nurtured. Together the children, mentors and horses experience unconditional love, acceptance, and freedom to trust in one another.

    Children and mentors will engage in Equine-Assisted Learning including grooming, leading, braiding, painting, horse challenges, and herd observation. Children will first build a relationship with their horse and may eventually participate in mounted activities. Because each participant has unique abilities and challenges, everyone will progress at a different rate, so the timing for reaching the goal of riding will vary amongst participants.

    It is our hope and prayer that self-esteem, self-worth, self-confidence, dignity, independence and improved social skills will be developed as participants learn unconditional love and acceptance through Christ, who brings love, hope, and peace.

  • Summer sessions for groups are available in June and July.

    Suggested donation of $35 per session (4 week session = $140)

Two women leading a horse through obstacles.

Corporate Team Building

  • Unleash the power of your team with a corporate team building session.

    Let Our Herd Help Your Team

    - Depart from traditional methods for a new approach

    - Foster teamwork

    - Improve communication

    - Unveil team dynamics

    - Cultivate problem-solving skills

    - Create lasting bonds within your team and foster an environment of camaraderie and support

    - collaborative, not competitive atmosphere

    Certified in Equine Assisted Learning, our skilled team seamlessly blends horse-human interaction into a powerful metaphor for the work environment.

    The horses become co-facilitators in your emotional growth, creating “teachable moments” that leave a profound impact.

    Lisa will lead. Your team through immersive experiences where individuals and groups develop essential relationship and life skills.

  • Please contact us so we can customize an experience that is tailored to your group and provide you a quote.

Equine-Assisted Learning for Women

  • Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed? We have faith-based equine-assisted learning for women that will help you find peace in your current season of life. This is a group activity and no horse experience is necessary to participate.

    Women’s EAL participant: “I really didn’t know what to expect, but the Lord met me here. I learned more about myself, horses, and God’s love.”

  • Spring and Fall 2025

    Maximum group size of 8 women

    $140 per person for the 4-weeks

    If you need a scholarship, please contact the office for information.

    Childcare is not provided.

Family Sessions

  • This program focuses on the emotional health and growth of families through specific activities with horses. The facilitator will help integrate the lessons learned with the horses into your own family.

    After discussion with the facilitator you will chose an activity that focuses on family dynamics, living as a family unit, communication and stress, trauma responses, or verbal communication.

    Join us to strengthen family bonds and learn from the natural dynamics of horses.

  • Scheduled year round. Recommended donation of $65 per session.

Waivers

  • Please make sure to complete the waiver linked below and turn it into the office. Thank you!

Youth & School Team Building

  • Build trust and communication in a fun, engaging atmosphere that is collaborative rather than competitive. It is a powerful journey of teaching, learning, and understanding.

    Our team building program is a group event where the horse does the teaching and our facilitators offer explanations and provide guidance. Activities are designed to develop problem solving skills that encourage individuals to work cohesively as a team for positive results. Our horses reveal the hidden dynamics of your team.

    This program is facilitated by our team, certified in Equine Assisted Learning and co-facilitated by our horses who reveal the hidden dynamics of your team. Our facilitators find those “teachable moments” that will make a big impact.

  • Our Team Building program offers 2-hour sessions for your youth or school group. No horse experience is necessary and participants will not be riding.


    $35 per person

Equine-Assisted Learning FAQ

  • Equine Assisted Learning is a unique approach that involved interactive activities with horses to promote personal and professional development. Through guided exercises and reflection, participants gain valuable insights into communication, leadership, and teamwork.

  • Our sessions with children are designed to provide a one-on-one experience. For corporate or group team building sessions, we create a custom session tailored to fit your needs and the size of your group. Each session is carefully crafted to ensure a meaningful and impactful experience, with personalized attention and engagement for all participants. We are flexible and can accommodate groups of various sizes.

  • This depends on the type of session. One-time sessions generally focus on groundwork activities or working together with your teammates. The individual one-on-one sessions last four weeks so participants have more time to build a relationship with their horse through activities on the ground. We have also seen the importance of activities on horseback, so our goal is for each child to eventually participate in mounted activities with their horse. Because each participant has unique abilities and challenges, everyone will progress at a different rate and the timing for reaching this goal will vary amongst participants. Please understand we are working for the best interest of your child.

  • No, our Equine Assisted Learning sessions are designed for individuals with all levels of horse experience. Our mentors and certified facilitators will guide you through the activities, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

  • Yes, safety is our top priority. Our facilitators are experienced in working with horses and guiding participant through the activities in a controlled environment. We carefully select well-trained horses that are accustomed to human interaction to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

  • Please dress appropriately for the weather, as most activities take place outdoors. We recommend comfortable clothing and require closed-toe shoes. We have an indoor, unheated arena available for us.

“My daughter’s involvement in H.U.G.S. Ranch grounded her and gave her purpose.”

Mother of a Session Participant