Warriors and Horses
Rebuilding Trust. Restoring Strength. Renewing Hope.
Warriors & Horses is Alatheia Center’s equine-assisted therapy program designed to support Veterans, First Responders, and their families who are navigating the emotional and mental challenges of trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, or the transitions of civilian life.
We understand that trust must be earned. Especially for those who have served and sacrificed. That’s why every aspect of Warriors & Horses is rooted in safety, respect, and authentic connection. There are no clinical walls, no forced conversations. Just you, our horses, and a supportive team who understands the courage it takes to show up.
“Norman loving therapy and getting better is a huge weight off my shoulders. So I can’t thank you enough! You’re helping the offficer, but really you are blessing the whole family. ” ~ Participant’s wife
Why Horses?
Horses are deeply intuitive. They respond honestly to the energy, emotions, and body language of the people around them, without judgment, expectation, or agenda. This creates a powerful mirror, helping participants recognize emotional patterns and explore new ways of coping and connecting.
Whether observing, experiencing reflective self-discovery or simply being present, participants build trust, confidence, and clarity through the horse-human connection.
Program Overview
Warriors & Horses offers three distinct pathways of engagement. Each experience is grounded in equine-assisted work that is hands-on, empowering, and personalized for where each participant is in their journey.
The Warriors & Horses program offers three options. These services are provided at NO COST to Veterans, First Responders, and their families.
Warriors & Horses EAGALA:
For individuals seeking emotional insight and healing.
Our private mental health sessions follow the internationally recognized EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) model of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. Sessions are non-riding, metaphor-based, and co-facilitated by a licensed Mental Health Professional and an Equine Specialist.
In these 8-week, one-on-one sessions, participants engage in ground-based activities with horses in a quiet, enclosed arena. The horse becomes a partner in healing, mirroring internal experiences in a way that can’t be replicated in traditional therapy.
- Non-clinical, experiential setting
- Confidential and trauma-informed
- Family members may participate when appropriate
Offered year-round. To apply, click here.
Warriors & Horses Horsemanship Clinics:
For those seeking connection, learning, and empowerment.
This group-based experience introduces participants to the basics of horse behavior, groundwork, and riding. Up to six Veterans or First Responders engage in a 3-hour clinic focused on building skills, confidence, and camaraderie.
Clinics also include elements of Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL), a non-riding approach that uses horses to spark impactful conversations about personal growth, teamwork, and communication.
- Hands-on with Alatheia’s Norwegian Fjord horses
- Builds confidence, trust, and personal insight
- Great entry point for new participants
Offered twice per quarter. To inquire or sign up a group, email info@alatheiaridingcenter.com
Warriors & Horses Immersion:
For those ready for ongoing engagement and community.
The Immersion Program offers a sustained, weekly commitment for those looking to be part of something meaningful. Participants spend three hours a week at Alatheia Center engaging in horse care, facility projects, riding, and volunteering alongside our therapeutic adaptive riding team.
This program becomes a “place to land”. A steady rhythm of work, purpose, and peer support.
- Ongoing horsemanship and riding opportunities
- Involvement in real-life tasks that support our mission
- Builds strong bonds and renewed sense of belonging
Participation is by invitation following engagement in another Warriors & Horses program.
