Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy in Monmouth County, NJ

A Different Path to Healing

At Operation HOPE, we offer equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) as a powerful, nontraditional approach to emotional wellness. On our peaceful farm in Monmouth County, clients connect with rescue horses in guided, ground-based sessions designed to support trauma recovery, emotional regulation, and personal growth.

All sessions are led by Licensed Clinical Social Workers and rooted in safety, compassion, and trauma-informed care.

What to Expect in Equine Therapy

Equine sessions are structured but flexible, tailored to each client’s needs. Activities may include grooming, leading, observation, or simply sharing space with a horse.

We often incorporate metaphorical work—using horse behavior as a reflection of emotional experiences—and guided meditation to help clients regulate their nervous systems and find calm. No horse experience is required. We guide you every step of the way.

Learn About Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy

Interested in how equine therapy works? We offer an on-demand video training course available for purchase.

Why Horses?

Emotionally Intuitive Partners

Horses respond honestly to human energy and emotion, helping clients build awareness without needing to speak.

A Safe, Nonjudgmental Presence

Horses don’t need explanations. Their quiet feedback fosters trust, empathy, and emotional safety.

Teaching Regulation and Grounding

Through calm, co-regulating exercises, clients learn to manage anxiety, stay present, and process difficult emotions.

Who Benefits From EAP

Teens and adults processing trauma, anxiety, or depression

Individuals who struggle with talk therapy

Families working through communication challenges

Adolescents (12+) learning to regulate emotions and build confidence

Couples seeking a shared path to healing

First Responders

What We Address

PTSD and trauma

Anxiety and overwhelm

Depression and emotional disconnection

Emotional regulation and behavioral challenges

Grief, loss, and life transitions

Session Fee for Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy

Each 50-minute equine-assisted psychotherapy session is $270.

This service is offered on a self-pay basis. We can provide a super bill upon request for potential out-of-network reimbursement.


Good Faith Estimate Notice

Under the federal No Surprises Act, individuals who are uninsured or who choose not to use their health insurance for services have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate of expected charges before care is provided. If you’d like an estimate of my fees, how many sessions it might include, or what bundled costs might be, please ask. You can ask your provider to give you a GFE in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service, or you can also ask for a GFE before you schedule an item or service.

For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 425-357-9111.

Meet the Horses

Each therapy horse at Operation HOPE is a rescue with a story. Their resilience and gentle presence create a powerful connection for clients—one rooted in authenticity, trust, and healing.

Veteran Scholarship Opportunities

Bronze

$500-Provide 2 sessions

Silver

$750-Provide 3 sessions

Gold

$1000-Provide 4 sessions

Purple Heart

$2000-Provide 8 sessions

Schedule An Appointment

Begin Your Journey With Equine Therapy

Whether you’re seeking support for yourself, a loved one, or a client, equine-assisted psychotherapy offers a grounded, meaningful path forward. Come as you are. Let’s begin the work—together.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Equine Therapy

Sessions vary based on individual goals but often include observation, grooming, leading, and structured exercises with the horse. Some sessions focus on quiet presence, while others use metaphorical work or guided meditations to deepen emotional insight. All activities are ground-based and adapted to your comfort level.

No experience is required. We welcome first-timers, and we’ll guide you through every step.

Metaphorical work uses the horse’s behavior and responses as symbols for emotional experiences or relationship dynamics. For example, a horse’s refusal to follow might represent struggles with boundaries or trust. These metaphors help clients explore their emotions and challenges without needing to “explain” everything in words.

Yes. Many sessions include guided mindfulness or meditation exercises with the horses, helping clients slow down, regulate their emotions, and connect on a deeper level. These moments of stillness often lead to breakthroughs in awareness and calm.

Yes. Equine-assisted therapy is especially effective for young clients (12 years old and older) who struggle with verbal communication or emotional regulation.

Therapeutic Horseback Riding are horseback riding lessons for kids and adults with special needs (not mental health therapy). Our sessions are ground-based and focus on connection and facilitated by two mental health professionals.