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  • More
    • Home
    • About
    • Traditional Therapy
    • Equine Asst. Therapy
    • Insurance
    • Programs
    • Specialized Services
    • Veterans Programs
    • Active Military
    • Military Sexual Trauma
    • First Responders
    • Victims of Sexual Abuse
    • Kiddo Programs
    • Adolescent Therapy
    • Chris Finch, LCSW
    • Rachel Tenney, LCSW
    • Emma Kinney, CSW
    • Sierra Burnett, APRN
    • Courtney Summers
    • Sadie Moellmer
    • Elena Abatgis
    • Contact Gallop To Growth
    • Resource Links
    • Gus' Gallery
    • Lightning's Gallery
    • Annie's Gallery
    • Rhythm's Gallery
    • Stables Contact
    • Forms
    • Steve's Gallery
    • Fred's Gallery
    • Big Ted's Gallery
  • Home
  • About
  • Traditional Therapy
  • Equine Asst. Therapy
  • Insurance
  • Programs
  • Specialized Services
  • Veterans Programs
  • Active Military
  • Military Sexual Trauma
  • First Responders
  • Victims of Sexual Abuse
  • Kiddo Programs
  • Adolescent Therapy
  • Chris Finch, LCSW
  • Rachel Tenney, LCSW
  • Emma Kinney, CSW
  • Sierra Burnett, APRN
  • Courtney Summers
  • Sadie Moellmer
  • Elena Abatgis
  • Contact Gallop To Growth
  • Resource Links
  • Gus' Gallery
  • Lightning's Gallery
  • Annie's Gallery
  • Rhythm's Gallery
  • Stables Contact
  • Forms
  • Steve's Gallery
  • Fred's Gallery
  • Big Ted's Gallery

EQUINE ASSISTED PSYCHOTHERAPY (EAP)

Find YOUR PATH TO HEALING

  

Find the answers you seek to change behaviors and make your life better. Explore, problem-solve, and overcome challenges by being the expert in your own life. Find meaning and solutions to the problems that trouble you. Cultivate positive feelings, thoughts and actions to enhance your well-being. The eagala Model delivers life-changing outcomes. You already have all the answers you’re looking for. 

What is EAP?

  Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) that uses horses in a safe and controlled environment where clients engage in activities like grooming, feeding, and leading them helping the client develop trust, communication, and problem-solving skills. Clients learn to improve their relationships with others, regulate their emotions, and build self-esteem. EAP has been shown to be effective treating clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD and other mood disorders. 

  

EAP is an evidenced based therapy and has been shown to be effective and helps clients:

· Build confidence, self-awareness, and social skills.

· Provide Unique non-verbal opportunities for the client to enhance self-awareness, recognize maladaptive behaviors, identify negative feelings, and face self-defeating cognitions.

· Increase cognitive skills, reduces stress, eases symptoms of PTSD, and addresses.

Evidence Based Certifications & Training

Utilizing evidence-based practices is essential to the success of our clients and our therapists all hold certifications with the industry's most respected and reputable equine assisted psychotherapy (EAP) certification programs. 

eagala

Military Service Provider Designation

Military Service Provider Designation

  The eagala model is a form of equine-assisted psychotherapy that involves a team of a licensed mental health professional, a qualified equine specialist, and horses working together with the client in an arena. The client interacts with the horses on the ground, without riding or touching them, and engages in various activities or tasks

  The eagala model is a form of equine-assisted psychotherapy that involves a team of a licensed mental health professional, a qualified equine specialist, and horses working together with the client in an arena. The client interacts with the horses on the ground, without riding or touching them, and engages in various activities or tasks that are designed to address their treatment goals. The horses act as metaphors and mirrors for the client’s emotions, behaviors, and relationships, providing them with immediate and honest feedback. The mental health professional and the equine specialist observe and facilitate the process, but do not interpret or direct it. They believe that the client has the ability to find their own solutions within themselves, and they support them in discovering and applying them. The eagala model is based on experiential learning, client-centered therapy, and solution focused therapy.

Military Service Provider Designation

Military Service Provider Designation

Military Service Provider Designation

eagala's Military Services Designation raises the bar for equine-assisted psychotherapy for active military, reserves, veterans, and their families. The eagala Military Services Designation is unique in the equine-assisted therapy world. With the eagala Model as the foundation, eagala Military Services Providers are specially credentialed with a deep understanding of military culture and life.  


PATH, Intl.

Military Service Provider Designation

PATH, Intl.


PATH, Intl., which stands for Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International, is a non-profit organization that promotes equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT) for individuals with special needs. PATH, Intl. aims to improve the quality of life and health of its participants by providing education, accreditati


PATH, Intl., which stands for Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International, is a non-profit organization that promotes equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT) for individuals with special needs. PATH, Intl. aims to improve the quality of life and health of its participants by providing education, accreditation, certification, and resources to its members, who include instructors, centers, volunteers, and equines. PATH, Intl. was founded in 1969 and has over 4,800 certified instructors and 873 member centers around the world.

ARCH

Natural Lifemanship

H.E.A.L.

ARCH Arenas for Change is a non-profit organization that provides equine-assisted learning and psychotherapy (EAL/EAP) to individuals, groups, and families in need. ARCH stands for Animal Related Change and Healing, and reflects the organization’s mission to use the power of the human-animal bond to foster positive change and healing.

H.E.A.L.

Natural Lifemanship

H.E.A.L.

The HEAL Model™ uses a set of interrelated principles for understanding and managing emotion in ourselves and others, that we call “Six Keys to Relationship”. Each “key” provides a strategy for solving the most common interpersonal dilemmas, such as poor boundaries or negative self-esteem. 

Natural Lifemanship

Natural Lifemanship

Natural Lifemanship

Natural Lifemanship (NL), is a trauma-informed approach to helping humans, horses and other animals through a model of equine-assisted learning, therapy, and psychotherapy that fosters growth and healing through connected relationships.

Benefits of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy


· Assertiveness

· Confidence

· Developing and maintaining relationships

· Emotional awareness

· Empathy

· Impulse control

· Problem-solving skills

· Social skills

· Trust in others

· Trust in self

· Adaptability

· Distress tolerance

· Emotional awareness

· Independence

· Impulse control

· Self-esteem

· Social awareness

· Social relationships

 

Horses cultivate emotional safety. In the safe environment created by the non-judgmental presence of horses, you feel inspired to open up. You engage and move and respond. You may realize you have feelings and behaviors you were not aware of and that you want to change. In this safe space, you become open to discovering resources and strengths you didn’t realize you had. Overcome perceived obstacles and take control of your life. Incorporate horses in your mental health care and safely manage overwhelming emotions. Come through stronger than ever.

Meet our Staff

Chris Finch, LCSW, ASUDC

Chris Finch, LCSW, ASUDC

Chris Finch, LCSW, ASUDC

Founder and Equine Assisted Psychotherapist

Meet Chris

Rachel Tenney, LCSW

Chris Finch, LCSW, ASUDC

Chris Finch, LCSW, ASUDC

Equine Assisted Psychotherapist

Meet Rachel

Emma Kinney, CSW

Chris Finch, LCSW, ASUDC

Sierra Burnett, APRN

Equine Assisted Psychotherapist

Meet Emma

Sierra Burnett, APRN

Chris Finch, LCSW, ASUDC

Sierra Burnett, APRN

Nurse Practitioner Holistic Equine Specialist

Meet Sierra

Sadie Moellmer

Courtney Summers

Courtney Summers

Barn Manager, Equine Bodyworker & Trainer

Meet Sadie

Courtney Summers

Courtney Summers

Courtney Summers

Equine Specialist, Trainer & Riding Instructor

Meet Courtney

Elena Abatgis

Courtney Summers

Elena Abatgis

Director of Operations, Co-Founder

Meet Elena

Meet Our 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.

Our 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.

Photos of Gus

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.

Photos of Rhythm

Lightning


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.

Photos of Lightning

Annie

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.

Photos of Annie

Steve

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.

Photos of Steve

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.

Photos of Fred

Big Ted


At 16.5 hands tall, Big Ted 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, Big Ted 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: Ted 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.

Photos of Big Ted

Supporting Clients of all Ages Individually or in Groups

Adults

Adolescents

Children

 

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Children

Adolescents

Children

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Adolescents

Adolescents

Adolescents

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Our Facility

Gallop To Growth Stables

Our stable is a dedicated therapy facility, not an equestrian center. Our  clients have a safe and intimate space to heal and develop the coping skills with the assistance of horses who are the mirror of souls.

Rain or shine, our horses are ready for you.

Indoors

Outdoors

Outdoors

Outdoors

Outdoors

Outdoors

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