Where HorsesHeal Hearts& Open Minds
Transformative therapy combining the healing power of horses with creative art expression — designed for neurodiverse students with ADHD, autism, and unique learning needs.
Healing Through the Bond Between Child & Horse
At Happy Hooves and Art Equine Therapy, we believe in the extraordinary capacity of every neurodiverse child. Our program brings together the gentle, intuitive nature of horses with expressive art therapy to create a uniquely safe and stimulating healing environment.
Horses are naturally sensitive to emotions and respond to non-verbal cues — making them ideal therapeutic partners for children who struggle to communicate in traditional ways. Combined with art-based activities, our sessions build confidence, emotional regulation, social skills, and self-expression.
Comprehensive Support for Every Child
From hands-on equine therapy to IEP advocacy, we offer a full spectrum of support designed around your child's individual strengths and needs.
Equine-Assisted Art Therapy
Our signature program combines direct interaction with horses alongside guided art-making activities. Children engage in grooming, leading, and spending time with horses, then process their experiences through painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed media.
- Builds emotional regulation skills
- Improves sensory integration
- Develops non-verbal communication
- Boosts self-esteem and confidence
- Reduces anxiety and stress
- Encourages social connection
Small Group Sessions
Carefully structured small groups (2–4 students) allow for peer connection and shared experiences while maintaining individualized attention. Group sessions focus on turn-taking, cooperative tasks, and building friendships in a low-pressure outdoor setting.
- Peer socialization in a safe setting
- Cooperative learning activities
- Communication practice
- Shared storytelling through art
- Building empathy
- Conflict resolution skills
IEP Consulting
Navigating the IEP process can be overwhelming for families. Our certified IEP consultants help you understand your child's rights, review evaluations, prepare for meetings, and advocate for appropriate services and accommodations that truly fit your child's needs.
- IEP document review & guidance
- Meeting preparation & coaching
- Evaluation interpretation
- Advocacy at school meetings
- Goal-setting support
- Transition planning assistance
Family Support Coaching
We equip parents and caregivers with evidence-based strategies to support their neurodiverse child at home and in the community. Coaching sessions are personalized, compassionate, and focused on practical day-to-day tools.
- Customized home strategies
- Behavior support guidance
- Sensory diet planning
- Caregiver wellness support
- School-home communication tips
- Community resource connections
Celebrating Every Unique Mind
We specialize in serving students whose neurodiversity means they learn, feel, and experience the world differently. Our program meets each child exactly where they are.
ADHD
Children with ADHD benefit enormously from the structured yet flexible outdoor environment. Working with horses requires focused attention, emotional control, and patience — all skills that transfer to daily life. Art activities provide a positive outlet for high energy and creative minds.
Autism Spectrum
For students on the autism spectrum, horses offer a non-judgmental connection that many children find easier to form than with other people. Our sensory-friendly environment and predictable routines create comfort, while art therapy supports communication and self-expression in meaningful ways.
Learning Differences
Students with dyslexia, dyscalculia, processing disorders, and other learning differences often shine in our program. Freed from the pressure of academic performance, children discover their strengths, build resilience, and develop a positive sense of self through hands-on creative work.
Anxiety & Emotional Challenges
Many neurodiverse children experience co-occurring anxiety, emotional dysregulation, or trauma responses. The calm, rhythmic nature of horses has a proven calming effect on the nervous system. Our trauma-informed approach creates safety and gradually builds emotional resilience.
Don't see your child's specific needs listed?
We work with all students with special and unique needs. Reach out to us — every child is welcome and we'll design a program that fits.
Talk to Us About Your ChildHow We Work Together
Starting therapy can feel daunting. We've made the process simple, transparent, and supportive every step of the way.
Free Discovery Call
We start with a warm, no-pressure conversation to learn about your child, their strengths, challenges, and goals. We'll answer all your questions and determine if our program is a good fit.
Personalized Assessment
Our therapist conducts a thorough intake assessment — reviewing records, speaking with caregivers, and meeting your child. We design an individualized therapy plan tailored to their unique profile.
Meet the Horses
Before formal sessions begin, your child is introduced to our gentle therapy horses in a low-key, exploratory visit. This builds trust and excitement at your child's own pace.
Begin Therapy Sessions
Weekly or bi-weekly sessions blend equine activities with art-making. Each session is adapted in real-time to meet your child's energy, sensory needs, and emotional state that day.
Progress Reviews
Regular check-ins with caregivers ensure you're informed and involved. We track progress, adjust goals, and celebrate every breakthrough — big and small.
Home & School Support
We bridge the gap between sessions with practical strategies for home, and collaborate with your child's school team — including IEP meetings — so gains carry forward everywhere.
Ready to take the first step?
Schedule Your Free CallNavigate the IEP Processwith Confidence
The Individualized Education Program (IEP) is the most powerful tool available to families of children with disabilities — but only if it's done right. Too often, families feel confused, pressured, or unheard during IEP meetings.
Our certified IEP consultants are experienced advocates who understand both the legal framework and the day-to-day realities of raising and educating neurodiverse children. We're in your corner.
IEP Document Review
We carefully review your child's current IEP to identify gaps, assess whether goals are measurable and appropriate, and flag areas where services may be lacking.
Goal Development
We help craft meaningful, measurable IEP goals that reflect your child's true strengths and address their real needs — not just what's convenient for the school.
Meeting Advocacy
Attend IEP meetings with confidence. We prepare you beforehand, help you understand your legal rights, and can attend meetings with you as your advocate.
Evaluation Interpretation
Psychological and educational evaluations can be confusing. We translate the reports into plain language and help you understand what services your child is entitled to.
School Communication
We help you build a collaborative relationship with your child's school team — communicating effectively, following up on commitments, and resolving disputes when needed.
Transition Planning
From early intervention to elementary, middle school to high school, and beyond — we help plan transitions that keep your child supported at every stage.
Real Stories, Real Breakthroughs
The greatest reward is watching children grow. Here's what families are saying.
My son has ADHD and was really struggling. After just a few months at Happy Hooves and Art, he's calmer, more focused, and talks about the horses every single day. It's been life-changing for our whole family.
The IEP consulting service was incredible. I went into that meeting finally knowing my daughter's rights, and we walked out with the services she'd been denied for two years. I can't recommend them enough.
My daughter is non-verbal and I worried she wouldn't connect with anyone. Watching her bond with the horses and express herself through painting brought me to tears. She is thriving.
Loved by families across the community
Let's Talk AboutYour Child
Every journey starts with a conversation. Reach out — there's no obligation, no pressure, just a warm chat about how we might be able to help your child thrive.