A Different Kind of Space to Connect: Equine-Assisted Groups at Faith Hill Farm
Last week, PSN families gathered at Faith Hill Farm for their weekly equine-assisted group. Meeting over multiple sessions, the group gives families space to explore, connect, and experience the horses in their own way.
Some walked with the horses. Some explored the arena. Some found creative ways to guide a horse without touching it. And for the first time, participants could use glitter to decorate the ponies however they wanted.
The activities were simple, but the experience was personal.
Participants were given space to explore, make choices, and see what stood out to them. Rather than being told exactly what to do or how to feel, they were encouraged to notice what was happening around them.
During the activities, clinicians might ask questions like:
What do you see the horse doing?
What are you noticing?
What do you think is happening here?
Sometimes even watching the horses interact with each other can become something worth noticing and talking about.
The group ended by checking in with emotions—thinking about what they were feeling in that moment.
There isn't one way to experience it
One of the things that makes this group special is that each person can have a different experience, even while participating in the same activities.
For some, it might be about being creative. For others, it might be about spending time with the horses, trying something new, or simply having a place to slow down and be present.
The goal isn't to have the “perfect” experience. It's about giving families the space to explore what the experience means to them.
We’re grateful to Faith Hill Farm and the clinicians and peer facilitators who help make these experiences possible for PSN families.
Sometimes support looks like talking. Sometimes it looks like walking beside a horse, putting glitter on a pony, or simply noticing what you see.
And sometimes, that’s exactly what a family needs.
Interested in Future Opportunities?
PSN offers special opportunities like this equine-assisted group for families we support. Contact PSN to learn about upcoming programs and opportunities for families.
