Equine-Assisted Therapy

Many clients entering our equine-assisted therapy program have a history of trauma, a confused sense of personal identity, fears of inadequacy or unmet needs for unconditional love. By creating a safe space where vulnerability is encouraged, participants discover a sense of acceptance that allows them to express their feelings openly without fear of judgment. This supportive environment helps individuals recognize and overcome psychological and emotional barriers that have prevented them from confronting the underlying issues contributing to their dysfunctional behaviors and dependence on drugs as a coping mechanism. 

Our equine-assisted therapy program focuses on helping clients rebuild their confidence and self-worth, which plays a significant role in empowering them to take control over their addiction. Clients gradually reconnect with feelings they have seemingly lost through their suffering from addiction, such as trust and responsibility. This enables them to communicate their needs, establish healthier relationships, and take accountability for their own lives in a proactive way.

Through our group therapy sessions, clients learn to value the importance of diversity, support, and teamwork, gaining practical skills they can apply to better communicate and relate to others on their path to recovery.

The journey of the horses in our equine-assisted therapy program, many of whom were neglected, abused or given up on, holds valuable lessons for the men and women who come to Bluff for drug and alcohol rehab. Each month, we rescue and rehabilitate another horse in need, providing our clients with an opportunity to learn about resilience, compassion and the importance of proper care.

Every year, thousands of U.S. horses are sent to slaughterhouses in Canada and Mexico. Lucky the horse was bound for a similar fate—until he was adopted by Dale Phillips. Withdrawn and skinny when he arrived, Lucky was given plenty of fresh air, exercise, nutritious food and proper grooming. As part of our equine-assisted therapy program, clients at Bluff bathed him, exercised him, fed him twice a day and ensured he had clean bedding to sleep on. After a month of tender loving care, Lucky was fully restored to health.

Sporting a gleaming coat and a gentle disposition, Lucky was adopted as a therapy horse for a family whose young son has spina bifida. To say goodbye, Bluff clients held a “graduation ceremony” for Lucky, wishing him well as he headed for his new home.

Lucky’s story is just one example of how our equine-assisted therapy program at Bluff Augusta not only helps patients but also gives back to the community by saving and rehabilitating horses in need.