Supporting Addiction Recovery Through Connection, Trust, and Emotional Growth
At Ventura Recovery Center, our Equine-Assisted Therapy Program offers a unique, hands-on approach to healing from drug and alcohol addiction. Through guided, ground-based interactions with horses, clients experience emotional growth, self-awareness, and renewed purpose—all within a peaceful, natural setting.
Rooted in trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices, this program provides an alternative to traditional talk therapy, helping individuals overcome barriers, process past experiences, and strengthen essential life skills for lasting recovery.
How Equine-Assisted Therapy Supports Recovery
Horses are deeply attuned to human emotions, offering nonjudgmental feedback and mirroring the feelings of those who interact with them. This powerful dynamic helps clients recognize and shift unhealthy patterns, build trust, and develop emotional resilience—skills vital for overcoming addiction.
Program Features
Ground-Based Interaction: All activities, such as grooming, leading, and bonding with horses, are conducted on the ground—no riding required.
Individual and Group Therapy Options: Clients may choose one-on-one sessions or small, supportive group experiences.
Recovery-Focused Sessions: Themes include trust, patience, healthy boundaries, accountability, and communication.
Trauma-Informed Approach: Designed for safety, empowerment, and respect, especially for those with PTSD, attachment wounds, or co-occurring mental health conditions.
Benefits of Equine Therapy in Addiction Recovery
- Builds self-esteem and confidence
- Encourages emotional regulation and grounding
- Enhances communication and interpersonal skills
- Reduces anxiety and depressive symptoms
- Reinforces accountability and responsibility
- Provides powerful metaphors for the recovery journey
Who Can Benefit
Equine-Assisted Therapy is available to all Ventura Recovery Center clients. It is particularly valuable for those who:
- Struggle with traditional talk therapy
- Have a history of trauma
- Seek deeper emotional connection during recovery
Our Facilitators
Each session is led by licensed mental health professionals trained in Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP), working alongside certified equine specialists to ensure both therapeutic effectiveness and animal safety.
Start Your Healing Journey Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, our compassionate team is here to guide you toward recovery — mind, body, and spirit.
Call us today or verify your insurance to learn more about our Holistic Addiction Therapy Programs and how they can support your long-term recovery.