What We Treat
- Depression
- Trauma and PTSD
- Anger issues
- Grief and loss
- Chronic pain
- Phobias
- Shame and guilt
- OCD
- ADHD
- Stress and Anxiety Disorders
- Relationship and family issues
Experienced. Compassionate. United by Purpose.
The Gallop To Growth Team
At Gallop To Growth, our team brings together a diverse group of licensed clinicians, equine
professionals, and support staff who share a common passion: helping people heal through
the transformative power of horses. Our therapists are experienced in treating a wide range of mental health concerns including PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, self-injury, and trauma. Each clinician is trained in evidence-based modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR.
Our clinicians hold certifications in equine-assisted psychotherapy models including EAGALA, PATH Int.l, Natural Lifemanship, HEAL, and ARCH. We work with individuals, couples, families, children, and veterans—offering a unique and powerful therapeutic approach that is trauma-informed, relational, and experiential.
Our clinical director, Chris Finch, LCSW, is a certified EAGALA Mental Health Specialist and
Military Service Provider with extensive experience in VA suicide prevention and trauma care.
He is planning to pursue his Doctorate in Social Work in the fall of 2025, focusing on advancing evidence-based treatment models within the field of equine-assisted psychotherapy.
We’re supported by a skilled and compassionate team of specialists:
• Elena Abatgis – Co-Founder and Director of Operations, blending decades of media
leadership with a passion for equine healing.
• Rachel Tinney, LCSW – Focuses on trauma recovery, OCD, and emotional regulation using
DBT/ACT and equine-assisted models.
• Emma Kinney, CSW – Specializes in advocacy and family therapy, integrating
horsemanship with clinical frameworks.
• Sierra Burnett, APRN – Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing individualized medication
management with optional animal-assisted care.
• Sadie Moellmer – Barn Manager and Equine Bodyworker maintaining herd health and
therapeutic environment integrity.
• Courtney Summers – Equine Specialist with over 16 years of horsemanship, EAGALA, and PATH Intl. training offering structured, safe sessions.
Together, our team blends professional experience with genuine empathy. We offer a safe
space for clients to explore, grow, and reconnect—with themselves and with the world around
them.
Whether you're navigating grief, rebuilding after trauma, learning to regulate emotions, or
seeking a different kind of therapeutic connection—we're here. And the horses are, too.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Are you ready to take the first step towards a happier and healthier life? Schedule an appointment with one of our experienced counselors today.
Chris Finch, LCSW
Sierra Burnett, APRN
Rachel Tenney, LCSW
Founder,
Clinical Director, Equine Assisted Psychotherapist and Equine Specialist
Rachel Tenney, LCSW
Sierra Burnett, APRN
Rachel Tenney, LCSW
Equine Assisted Psychotherapist & Equine Specialist
Emma Kinney, CSW
Sierra Burnett, APRN
Sierra Burnett, APRN
Equine Assisted Psychotherapist and Equine Specialist
Sierra Burnett, APRN
Sierra Burnett, APRN
Sierra Burnett, APRN
Nurse Practitioner, Holistic Equine Specialist
Courtney Summers
Elena Abatgis, Business Operations Manager
Elena Abatgis, Business Operations Manager
Equine Specialist, Trainer, Riding Instructor
Elena Abatgis, Business Operations Manager
Elena Abatgis, Business Operations Manager
Elena Abatgis, Business Operations Manager
Office Administration
Social Media
Communications
Meet Our Therapy Horses
At Gallop To Growth, our therapy horses are more than animals—they’re partners in healing. Each horse brings a unique horsonality and presence to the arena, helping clients build trust, develop emotional awareness, and practice real-time relationship skills.
Our horses are specially selected for their gentle temperaments and sensitivity to human energy. They respond honestly and without judgment, offering powerful insights through their natural behaviors and interactions. Whether standing quietly or moving freely, they help clients of all ages reconnect with themselves in meaningful, grounded ways.
We honor our horses not just as helpers, but as co-facilitators in the therapeutic process—and we care for them with the same compassion they offer our clients.
The Therapy Herd
Gus
Gus is a 6-year-old dark bay Mustang gelding adopted from the BLM—and while he may be small in size, his personality is anything but. With an abundance of playful energy and boundless curiosity, Gus is always ready to explore, connect, and keep you on your toes.
He’s the kind of horse that makes people smile just by being himself. Whether he's gently nudging for attention or investigating everything in sight, Gus brings joy and lightness to every session. He’s also a natural charmer with a heart full of courage.
Gus reminds us that confidence isn’t about size—it’s about spirit. And he's got plenty to spare.
Rhythm
Rhythm is a 7-year-old sorrel Mustang mare with a story as unique as her name. Adopted from the Bureau of Land Management, Rhythm brings a beautiful balance of quiet strength and spirited energy to our herd.
In the stall, she’s calm, observant, and deeply intuitive—often tuning in to the emotional energy around her. But out in the pasture, Rhythm shines with playful confidence, running with purpose and, of course, rhythm.
Clients often find comfort in her calm presence, while others are inspired by the contrast between her stillness and her spark. Rhythm teaches that it’s okay to be gentle and powerful all at once.
Lightning
13 Year Old American Quarter Horse | BGSA-Certified Therapy Horse
Lightning is a 13-year-old red roan Quarter Horse gelding who brings plenty of personality—and affection—to the barn. While his name suggests speed, Lightning moves at his own pace and saves his bursts of energy for the moments that matter.
More than anything, Lightning sees himself as a lover boy. He leans into connection, seeks attention with a sparkle in his eye, and knows exactly how to charm his way into your heart. His playful nature and expressive face make him a fast favorite among clients of all ages.
Lightning reminds us that love can be both bold and gentle—and that healing often begins with a nuzzle and a kind eye.
Annie
10 Year Old American Quarter Horse | BGSA-Certified Therapy Horse
Annie is a 10-year-old red roan Quarter Horse mare and the undisputed sweetheart—and heavyweight—of our herd. As the largest horse at Gallop To Growth, Annie carries a quiet confidence that the other horses recognize instantly.
But don’t let her size fool you—Annie is all heart. She adores affectionate attention and isn’t shy about asking for it. If she feels overlooked, you’ll likely get a gentle nudge reminding you she’s ready for some love.
Her affectionate, grounded presence offers clients a sense of security and acceptance. Annie shows us that strength and softness can live side by side—and that it’s okay to ask for what you need.
Steve
23 Year old American Quarter Horse | BGSA-Certified Therapy Horse
At 23 years old, Steve is a retired barrel racing champion and a registered Quarter Horse with a heart as big as his stride. After an impressive career, Steve found his true calling in 2021—not in the arena, but in the hearts of those he comforts.
Steve has a gentle, affectionate nature that draws people in. He’s especially gifted at making clients feel seen, safe, and valued—whether it's a child taking their first step into the round pen or an adult seeking quiet reassurance. He genuinely loves people and lives to show it.
Now a beloved member of our therapy herd, Steve reminds us that second chapters can be even more meaningful than the first.
Fred
Fred is a 7-year-old buckskin Quarter Horse/Paint gelding with a big build and an even bigger heart. Standing just over 16.5 hands tall, he’s one of the tallest in our herd—but it’s his affectionate nature that truly stands out.
Fred came to us through the kind recommendation of his owner, who recognized his gentle soul and knew he'd make a perfect therapy partner. She was absolutely right. Fred thrives on connection—whether he’s quietly standing beside a client or nudging in for some extra love.
Clients are drawn to his calm confidence, and his steady presence often provides comfort and reassurance during emotional moments. Fred teaches us that strength and sweetness go hand-in-hand.
The General
12 Year old Grade |BGSA-Certified Therapy Horse
At 16.5 hands tall, The General lives up to his name—but it’s his heart, not just his height, that makes the biggest impact. A 12-year-old flea-bitten grey gelding, The General came to Gallop To Growth through a serendipitous connection. His owner, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, generously offered him to our program after learning about our work with equine-assisted psychotherapy.
What we didn’t know at the time: General had already been serving as a therapy horse for veterans. It was in his blood, and it shows. Gentle, affectionate, and incredibly intuitive, Big Ted brings a grounded, calming presence to our sessions—especially for those seeking safety, stability, and strength.
He reminds us that healing often comes full circle, and sometimes the right horse finds you when you need them most.
Poncho
6-year-old Appaloosa | BGSA-Certified Therapy Horse
With his golden-spotted coat and even more golden heart, Poncho is as charming as they come. Often described by his owner as her “golden retriever,” Poncho brings a playful, affectionate energy to the herd—and to every client he meets.
Once living alone and isolated, Poncho now thrives as part of a loving herd, where he’s found his purpose as a therapy partner. He has a special way of connecting with people, especially women and teens, earning him the affectionate nickname “the ladies’ man.”
Whether he’s quietly standing beside someone in need or playfully seeking attention in the paddock, Poncho’s presence brings joy, comfort, and connection to all who work with him.
Our Locations
Traditional Therapy
Cottonwood Corporate Center
2825 E. Cottonwood Pkwy.
Suite 500
Cottonwood Heights, UT. 84121
(385) 446-3080
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
Gallop To Growth Stables
1010 S. Angel Street
Layton, UT 84041
(385) 446-3080
Visit Our Stables
Our stables provide a space for clients to practice mindfulness, to find peace and to heal.