Equine Pathways Series:
Social-Emotional Learning
A four-week equine-assisted group therapy program for children
Children’s Programs
At Hope Valley Psychotherapy, we believe children grow best when they are met with warmth, curiosity, and the steady presence of a safe environment. The Equine Pathways Series is a thoughtfully designed, research-informed program created to nurture one of the most important capacities a child can develop: resilience.
Drawing on the work of Masten and Barnes (2018), who describe resilience as the capacity to adapt successfully to challenges that threaten growth and well-being, this program offers children a gentle, experiential space to build the inner resources that help them navigate life with confidence and self-compassion.
What Your Child Will Experience
Over four weekly sessions, children are invited into a calm, supportive environment where learning happens through doing, feeling, and connecting. The program is Internal Family Systems (IFS)-informed, meaning we approach each child's inner world with curiosity rather than judgment, helping them understand that all parts of themselves are welcome here.
Through a thoughtful blend of art therapy activities, equine-assisted therapy strategies, and play therapy, participants are gently supported to:
Build self-awareness, self-compassion, and emotional regulation skills
Approach their own and others' behaviours with curiosity and compassion
Strengthen friendships and develop positive peer connection
Each week offers playful, developmentally appropriate ways for children to grow toward these goals, with careful attention given to minimizing social anxiety and performance pressure. Children are never asked to do more than feels right for them.
Our Equine Partners
Our work is supported by a small herd of rescue ponies and horses who are calm, loving, and (it must be said) absolutely adore being brushed. These gentle animals offer children something rare: honest, non-verbal feedback delivered without judgment. Horses respond to the world in real time, helping children become more aware of their internal states, practice co-regulation, and experience the quiet joy of connection with another being.
This program is facilitated in partnership with Oxford Sporthorses, whose experienced team and gentle herd provide the heart of our equine-assisted work.
Support for the Whole Family
At the end of each weekly session, families will receive a parent handout and take-home activities designed to extend the learning beyond our time together. These resources help caregivers understand what their child explored that week and offer simple, meaningful ways to continue nurturing growth at home.
Program Details
Population: Children in Grades 4 to 6
Dates: Thursdays, June 4, 11, 18, and 25
Time: 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM (90-minute sessions)
Location: Innerkip, Ontario (full address provided upon registration)
Group Size: Limited to 6 participants, with 4 staff and volunteers on hand to ensure every child feels well supported
Program Fee: $580 tax exempt for the full four-week program ($145 per session breakdown). Payment may be made weekly or as a single lump sum.
Insurance: Eligible for coverage under Registered Psychotherapy services where applicable
Program Leadership
Facilitated by a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with support from an experienced equestrian professional at Oxford Sporthorses, creating a uniquely experiential and inclusive therapeutic environment where clinical care and equine welfare are upheld throughout each session.
Registration
Because we want to ensure this program is the right fit for your child, registration begins with a brief conversation. Please reach out directly so we can chat about your child's needs and answer any questions you may have.
Registration deadline: May 28th (space dependent)
To register or request additional information, please contact jenny@hopevalleypsychotherapy.ca.
Ready to Get Started?
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