I want to take a moment to sincerely thank all first responders and veterans for their service.
I’ve been seeing more programs offering specialized services for these populations, which is amazing—but it also makes proper vetting more important than ever.
If you are a first responder or veteran seeking equine-assisted services, please take the time to carefully evaluate the agency you choose.
Many equine-assisted providers have the best intentions and truly want to help. However, good intentions alone are not enough—especially when working with trauma and high-stress nervous systems.
Not every provider is trained or experienced in working with first responder or military populations, and that level of competency is essential.
What to look for when choosing a facility:
1. Relevant Experience
Ask how many years of experience they have working specifically with first responders or military populations.
Personal connection (e.g., “my spouse is military” or “I served”) can be valuable—but it should not be the deciding factor.
2. Licensure & Scope of Practice
Ask if they are a licensed counselor.
If not, ensure you are comfortable working with a life coach. While many are ethical and skilled, there is often limited accountability if something goes wrong.
Even licensed clinicians should be researched to confirm their specialty areas and training.
3. Trauma-Informed Training
Look for providers who have formal first responder trauma-informed training and ongoing supervision or consultation.
4. Nervous System Knowledge
A strong understanding of the polyvagal system is key.
Providers should understand how chronic stress impacts the brain and nervous system in first responders and veterans, and how to safely support regulation. Understanding the differences in the size of some brain structures in first responders is important.
5. Horse Experience & Safety
Ask how many years of horse experience they have.
We recommend 3–5 years minimum before starting an equine-assisted practice.
- Liberty work (loose horses) can be powerful—but also risky without proper experience
- Horses tied for the entire session is not ethical or effective
Both client safety and horse welfare must be prioritized.
6. Professional Referrals
Ask for referral sources (not clients).
Find out which professionals or organizations trust and refer to them.
7. Goodness of Fit Matters
Agencies that offer trial sessions are a great sign—they’re prioritizing fit, not just filling spots.
8. Watch for Red Flags 🚩
No matter how well-meaning a provider is, lack of proper training and experience can unintentionally cause harm.
Be cautious of anyone who promises full healing in 3–6 sessions.
That timeframe is typically for rapport building and establishing safety, not complete treatment.
After 15 years in this field studying anxiety, trauma, and the nervous system, I still encounter clients who are not the right fit for our program—and that’s okay.
Ethical practice means being transparent, accountable, and willing to refer out when needed.
Remember:
Just because a facility wasn’t a good fit for you doesn’t mean it’s a bad facility—it just means it wasn’t the right one for your healing journey.
Healing takes time. Horses are powerful partners in the process, but meaningful, lasting change typically unfolds over months—not sessions.
I hope this helps guide you toward finding the right support for your journey.