Frequently Asked Questions

Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) is a form of mental health counseling that takes place outdoors with the support of horses and nature. Sessions are led by a mental health counselor and incorporate structured interactions with horses to support emotional awareness, coping skills, confidence, relationship patterns, and nervous system regulation. No riding is involved. Clients participate in ground-based activities such as grooming, leading, observing horse behavior, mindfulness exercises, or collaborative problem-solving tasks. Horses are naturally sensitive to human emotion and body language, which often provides meaningful, real-time feedback that can deepen insight and support growth.

This approach can be especially helpful for:

• Children and adolescents

• Anxiety and stress

• Trauma and nervous system regulation

• Emotional awareness and expression

• Confidence and self-esteem

• Relationship challenges

• Individuals who feel stuck in traditional talk therapy

• Clients who benefit from movement, sensory experiences, or being outdoors

Sessions are always tailored to each client’s goals, comfort level, and therapeutic needs.

At Mind Aligned, the goal is not learning about horses — the goal is supporting mental health through experiential therapy. Sessions are: 

• Trauma-informed

• Consent-based (for both humans and horses)

• Person-centered and collaborative

• Developmentally appropriate for children and teens

• Integrated with evidence-based therapy approaches (CBT, DBT skills, somatic awareness, mindfulness, attachment-focused work)

• Grounded in safety and emotional regulation

• Getting to know you (or your child)

• Reviewing goals and comfort level around animals

• Orientation to the farm environment and safety guidelines

• Meeting the horses at a comfortable pace

• Beginning simple interactions if appropriate

Some clients interact with horses right away, while others prefer observation first. Both are completely appropriate and therapeutic.

No experience is needed. Everything is beginner-friendly and guided step-by-step.

No. All sessions are non-riding and take place on the ground.

That is very common. We move at your pace. Even standing nearby, observing, or working at a distance can be powerful therapeutic work. We can go into the office, walk on the trails, sit by the pond; whatever feels comfortable for you. 

• Closed-toe shoes (required) — sneakers or boots

• Comfortable clothing you can move in

• Weather-appropriate layers

• Clothes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty

Yes. Equine sessions are mental health counseling sessions led by a mental health counselor and follow the same ethical and clinical standards as office-based therapy.

Depending on conditions, sessions may:

• Take place under our covered arena

• Move to an indoor office space

• Be modified to nature-based or movement activities

• Occasionally be rescheduled if conditions are unsafe

Although parents do not join the sessions, parent involvement is an important part of the therapeutic process. We often include:

• Parent check-ins

• Strategies for home support

• Periodic progress updates

• Family sessions when helpful

Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy is billed as a psychotherapy session with a mental health counselor. 

Coverage varies by plan. Clients are responsible for:

• Copays

• Deductibles

• Farm fees if applicable

• Non-covered services if applicable

If you have questions about insurance or benefits, we can help guide you through the process.

Safety is a top priority for both clients and animals.

Key expectations include:

• Closed-toe shoes must be worn

• Clients follow therapist instructions around horses at all times

• Respect for horse boundaries and consent-based interactions

• Sessions may pause if safety guidelines are not followed

These guidelines help create a calm, safe, therapeutic environment for everyone.

Horses are highly attuned to human emotion and nervous system states. They respond honestly and without judgment, which can help clients:

• Increase self-awareness

• Practice boundaries and communication

• Build confidence

• Regulate emotions

• Develop trust and connection

For many people, working alongside a horse allows therapeutic progress in ways that feel more natural, engaging, and less intimidating.

Please reach out anytime with questions or concerns. We want you to feel comfortable and prepared before starting.