Mental Health Programs and Therapeutic Horsemanship

Special Equestrians offers two ground-based programs for children and teens with a mental health diagnosis in partnership with the Bucks County Department of Behavioral Health/Developmental Programs. 

Therapeutic Horsemanship program is conducted as weekly 30-minute sessions run by a PATH International certified equine specialist. Sessions involve working with the equine on the ground and learning horsemanship skills to build confidence, self-esteem, coping skills and social-emotional skills. 

Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy is conducted as weekly therapy sessions by independent contractors employed by Lenape Valley Foundation or Special Equestrians’ licensed social worker and a certified equine specialist. Working through these challenges allows the equine specialist and mental health professional opportunities to teach coping skills for daily life.