At White River Academy, we’re proud to offer equine therapy as part of our comprehensive treatment program for adolescent boys. Our therapy center provides a unique and powerful approach to healing and personal growth. Located in the serene landscape of Utah, our facility offers the perfect setting for teens to connect with horses and nature, facilitating profound therapeutic experiences.
Our horse therapy program is designed specifically for teenagers facing various challenges, including mental health issues, behavioral problems, and substance abuse. We’ve seen firsthand how interactions with horses can break down barriers and open new pathways to healing that traditional therapy alone may not achieve.
Equine therapy, also known as horse therapy or equestrian therapy, is a form of experiential therapy that involves interactions between patients and horses. This therapeutic approach goes beyond traditional horse riding therapy; it encompasses a range of activities with horses, including grooming, feeding, and leading, as well as riding.
This therapy is based on the premise that horses can mirror and respond to human emotions, providing immediate and honest feedback. This unique characteristic of horses makes them excellent partners in therapeutic settings.
At White River Academy, our trained therapists guide adolescents through these interactions, helping them gain insights into their own behaviors, emotions, and relationships.
Equine assisted therapy offers numerous benefits for teens, particularly those struggling with mental health issues or behavioral problems. Some key advantages include:
These benefits make equestrian therapy for mental health a valuable part of our comprehensive treatment approach.
Why Choose us?
Our equine-assisted therapy program is tailored to meet the unique needs of each adolescent. We combine traditional therapeutic horseback riding with ground-based activities, ensuring a well-rounded experience that addresses various therapeutic goals.
Our program is led by certified equine therapists who work closely with our clinical team to integrate equestrian therapy into each student’s overall treatment plan. Sessions may include individual work with horses, group activities, and family sessions that incorporate equine therapy. This multi-faceted approach allows us to address a wide range of issues, from trauma and addiction to anxiety and depression.
We believe that the combination of our expert staff, our specially trained therapy horses, and the natural beauty of our Utah facility creates an ideal environment for healing and growth. Through our equine therapy program, we’ve helped countless adolescents develop the skills and confidence they need to overcome challenges and build a brighter future.
Successfully Helping Families
Treating Sex Addiction & Compulsivity
Graduation Success Rate
Of Family Advancement & Foster Care Experience
Community Service Improvement Projects Completed
We understand that seeking treatment for your child can raise many questions. To help you make informed decisions, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about our programs and our approach to treating teenagers.
If you don’t find the information you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to contact our admissions team for personalized assistance.
Absolutely! Safety is our top priority. Every session is led by trained professionals, and we work with calm, well-trained therapy horses to ensure a secure and positive experience.
Unlike traditional therapy, horse therapy is an interactive, hands-on experience. It’s especially beneficial for teens who find talk therapy challenging, as horses provide instant, non-judgmental feedback and create meaningful learning moments.
Yes! Activities like therapeutic horseback riding help improve balance, coordination, and core strength, offering both mental and physical benefits.
Yes! We encourage family involvement. Our family equine therapy sessions help improve communication and strengthen relationships in a unique, hands-on way.
We assess progress through clinical evaluations, behavioral observations, and feedback from teens, their families, and our staff. This well-rounded approach helps us track each individual’s growth and success in the program.
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