Healing with Horses Equine Therapy for Mental Health
What if the key to healing anxiety, trauma, or depression wasn’t just found in an office — but in the quiet connection with a horse? In this episode, I sit down with Summer to explore the world of equine therapy and how these incredible animals are helping people transform their mental health.
We dive into the difference between traditional hippotherapy and ground-based horse therapy, why spending time with horses has such a powerful impact on the nervous system, and the unforgettable breakthroughs Summer has witnessed with her clients. From easing stress and building confidence to creating trust after trauma, horses bring a kind of healing that’s hard to put into words.
We also open up about the real-life challenges of caring for therapy horses and why community support is so vital to keep this work alive. If you’ve ever been curious about how equine therapy supports mental health, or you just want a fresh perspective on healing, this conversation will inspire you.
BIO:
Summer Bouquet is currently working toward licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) while completing her clinical hours. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from UC Davis, where she was also a Division I beach volleyball athlete. Summer’s interest in psychology began early and has grown into a deep passion for helping others navigate life’s challenges. While she works with clients of all ages, she has a special focus on supporting adolescents between 12 and 18. In her clinical practice, Summer integrates equine therapy with psychodynamic approaches to create meaningful, individualized experiences for her clients.
RESOURCES/ REFERENCES:
https://www.walkintuit.org/
Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for their specific situations.