What is Equine Assisted Coaching?


Equine assisted coaching is a powerful tool that, in its simplest form, allows horses to be the teachers. Horses are masters of living in the present, and they have so much to teach us. They communicate very effectively if we can stay present and open ourselves to the way they communicate.

WHY HORSES?

Horses are prey animals. This means that they are attuned to their environment for the smallest crack of a branch, the most stealthy padded paw step, and the shifting energy of their herd. When one horse notices danger or change, the others are swift to pick up on this, without a single word spoken. As we integrate horses into our lives and our “herds” they are just as swift to pick up on changes in our energy. While most of us are not being chased by a mountain lion on a day to day basis, we fight internal predators like doubt, shame, and anxiety. These predators can plague our day to day living, and we are often left without the internal tool kit to deal with them.

Equine-assisted coaching works because it leverages the unique qualities of horses to facilitate personal growth and emotional insight. Horses are highly sensitive, intuitive animals that respond to non-verbal cues, allowing them to mirror a person’s emotional state. This immediate feedback helps individuals become more self-aware and present in the moment. Additionally, working with horses in a non-judgmental, natural environment can reduce stress, promote mindfulness, and foster trust and connection. Through this interaction, individuals often gain a deeper understanding of their emotions, behavior patterns, and interpersonal skills, making equine-assisted coaching an effective tool for personal development.

FAQs

  • No prior equine experience is necessary to participate in equine-assisted coaching. The sessions are designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of their familiarity with horses. All activities are conducted safely under the guidance of trained professionals, ensuring a comfortable and supportive environment for every participant. Horses naturally respond to human emotions and behavior, allowing meaningful growth and insights for anyone, whether it’s their first time around horses or not.

  • No riding is involved in equine-assisted coaching; all activities are done on the ground with the horse. These sessions focus on building connections, self-awareness, and personal growth through non-riding interactions.

  • Equine-assisted coaching can support mental health by fostering self-awareness, emotional regulation, and personal growth, but it is not a substitute for therapy. Unlike therapy, which focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, equine-assisted coaching emphasizes personal development, goal setting, and skill-building. The process involves partnering with horses in non-riding, ground-based activities that highlight patterns in communication, behavior, and relationships. While coaching can complement therapy, its focus is forward-thinking and solution-oriented, helping individuals move toward their goals rather than addressing clinical diagnoses or past trauma.

  • At Top Line Coaching, we are deeply committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for everyone. We celebrate diversity and respect everyone’s unique journey, identities, and experiences. Cori is dedicated to fostering an environment where all individuals feel seen, heard, and valued without judgment. You can trust that our work is grounded in compassion, support, and unwavering allyship for everyone. This proudly includes the underserved, marginalized, and LGBTQIA+ communities. You are valid and welcome here.