I’ve been receiving more inquiries lately from families and professionals seeking horse-based experiences for children or individuals with developmental or behavioral disabilities. I want to take a moment to clarify an important distinction, because while many forms of this work are meaningful and impactful, they are not all the same.
There are equine programs specifically designed to support individuals with developmental or behavioral disabilities. These programs often focus on skill-building, regulation, adaptive learning, or therapeutic goals. They are typically highly structured, staffed by trained professionals, and may include side-walkers, specialized equipment, and individualized supports to ensure safety and success.
That work is valuable and necessary.
Equine Gestalt Coaching, which is the foundation of DreamCatchers, serves a different purpose.
This work is designed for teens and adults who are able to engage independently in an emotionally focused, reflective process. Rather than teaching skills or directing outcomes, Equine Gestalt Coaching invites participants to notice what arises in the presence of the horse, emotions, patterns, beliefs, and choices, and explore those experiences with support and curiosity.
The horses are not tools or therapists. They are partners who respond honestly in the moment, offering powerful feedback through relationship and presence. This work relies on a participant’s ability to self-reflect, communicate, regulate themselves, and take responsibility for their own experience, while also following clear safety expectations around large, sentient beings. For the same reasons, the Hug a Horse program is not appropriate for individuals who require significant developmental or behavioral support.
Because of this, Equine Gestalt Coaching and Hug a Horse are not suitable for everyone. This is not a judgment—it is about alignment, safety, and honoring the integrity of the work for both humans and horses.
If you are seeking support for a child or individual with higher support needs, I encourage you to explore programs that are specifically designed to provide adaptive or therapeutic services. If you are a teen or adult seeking emotional growth, healing, or deeper self-awareness, Equine Gestalt Coaching may be a meaningful place to begin.
Both paths matter. Honoring different needs helps ensure that everyone receives the support that best serves them.
For more details on who this work is appropriate for, please see our FAQpage.