Equine Therapy in California - Expert Care & Support

Hard to Open Up? Equine Therapy at California Mental Health Can Help

California Mental Health is a premier residential mental health facility serving clients across California. Discover what a horse can show you that words can’t.

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Let a Horse Show You What Words Can't

Equine therapy uses guided, ground-based work with horses to reveal emotional patterns that talk therapy can miss. No horse experience is needed, and a facilitator stays with you the entire time.

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 52 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   Will L. 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Treatment at CMH was wonderful and was exactly what I needed. Everyone was so caring and amazing. I felt like I was in a safe and trusted environment, surrounded by people who wanted to help me. I came to them when I was at my lowest and left a stronger person with the therapy and tools I needed. If you really need help and are ready to focus on getting better, then you should reach out to them and find out more.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Carolyn Watson (CECO Entertainment) 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My loved one spent 6 weeks in this program. This is the longest he has ever spent in a residential program. He experiences organic mental health issues and is a young adult. I was very concerned that the program was not dedicated to strictly age 18-25 because the programs for adults have been more on the older side (30+) and this is one of the reasons why he didn’t stay. However this program had a good array of clients from age to gender to race to experiences and I believe this really made a big difference. Also the care team was very focused on meeting my loved one where they stood. There is also family programming ongoing and this also had a very important impact on the recovery process. The resident was very nice and comfortable and a nice home away from home. We were able to visit on weekends and have good times just enjoying each other’s company. The restrictions were not extreme and the staff were all accommodating to all of our needs. The care program including therapist and the case manager were readily available to review status weekly. I was able to communicate with my loved one and the care team members by requesting family meetings. My loved one and I were the heads of the care team and this allowed us to input goals and aspirations regarding the recovery process. I continue to stay in touch with other family members who have loved ones in treatment centers around the country by way of a special weekly family care zoom meeting that allows us to learn more about dealing with struggling loved ones and to listen to and relate to others who are also going through this. It’s a very good program and I highly recommend it. My loved one is now in a PHP residential and will hopefully move on from there to more independent living thanks mostly to CAMHT program and the stepping stone they provided to a life well lived. Thank you to everyone at CAMHT and we miss you!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Gina Borden 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The housemates I have had over my time here have been amazing and supportive. It’s clean quiet and homey. I got to bring my dog and Daniela one of the staff brought her treats almost every night she worked. Rosemary would walk her in the mornings on the occasion I would be in the shower and she wanted out or if I was in therapy Areli taught her how to do rounds and would babysit it her when I would go to an AA meeting. She is going to miss all the extra love as well as I will miss everyone staff and housemates. Elly has taught me so much about how to use coping skills for my anxiety. My favorite are name it to tame it. Walk forward the storm and opposite action.  I feel have come along way towards finding my new normal thanks to all the staff at Marie Ct. California Mental Health is amazing
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Rex Baumgartner 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our son was in the 45 day program in San Martin. When he first arrived, he was withdrawn and closed off to receiving help. Thanks to the supportive staff, by the time he was discharged he had become open to treatment and
relationships with staff and peers. We highly recommend California Mental Health for individuals with mental health challenges.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Austin Lombard 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing place full of genuinely caring clinical and support staff. I didn’t want to leave but thems the breaks guess I gotta go pay taxes and stuff.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Laura “lorikitty” Flores 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The team here is very personable and responsive. I appreciate their focus on documenting your diagnoses to have a 100%clear understanding of your mental health and what roadblocks are impacting your ability to experience a normal life.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   katie kanaga 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Therapist were great. Really enjoyed EMDR therapy. Max (overnight BHT) was one of my favorites and I enjoyed bothering him every morning when I got up early. And Ely!!!! (Case manager) My best friend if we were in another lifetime was fantastic
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Juniper Salas Stephens 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a really wonderful experience here, the staff are all amazing, and the program really helped me with my recovery. They do a lot of outings and fun activities, so you’re never just stuck in the house, and they encourage self care and taking time for yourself just as much as they encourage going to groups. Everything is always optional of course. Highly recommend this place, I know I won’t be going anywhere else if I ever need mental health help in the future

Meet Our Team

We utilize a variety of treatment modalities to teach our patients the coping skills they need to find stability and discover their self-awareness.

Joshua Fane

Program Director/Operations Manager

Jeannie Anderson

Executive Director

Joshua Fane

Program Director/Operations Manager

Jeannie Anderson

Executive Director

Erica Pace

Healthcare Supervisor LVN

What Is Equine Therapy?

Equine therapy in California refers to a guided, ground-based interaction with horses that helps a patient analyze their behavioral and emotional patterns. During a session, an experienced facilitator helps the person work through structured activities while observing how they respond to the animal and the environment. This immediate feedback about your communication skills, energy, and boundaries allows the specialist and their patient to recognize things that might be missed in a traditional therapy setting.

Equine therapy for anxiety is part of California Mental Health’s Holistic Approach – it is an experiential practice we offer alongside clinical treatment in our What We Treat programs. It does not replace counseling or medication – instead, it complements individual and group therapy by giving patients another setting where they explore their coping mechanisms, emotional responses, and interpersonal patterns.

Our clients travel to a local equine partner facility with the staff to attend equine-assisted therapy sessions. You will spend time in an outdoor setting with trained animals and appropriate supervision with consistent connection to the clinical team that oversees your care.

If things feel like too much

If painful memories or distress ever feel overwhelming, or you have thoughts of harming yourself, help is available at any hour. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or call 911 in an emergency.

Equine Therapy Benefits

The benefits of equine therapy for trauma, depression, or burnout extend beyond the session itself – this approach gives our residents opportunities to:

Notice emotions through connection

when you interact with an animal, its responses will help you notice your body language, reactions, and emotions that you overlook due to your anxiety.

Practice trust and boundaries

use real-time opportunities to respect personal space, communicate clearly, and build trust through predictable, consistent interactions.

Build confidence gradually

by completing small, concrete tasks such as leading a horse or grooming an animal, you will regain self-efficacy and improve your self-esteem.

Stay grounded and present

focusing on the horse, your surroundings, and your actions will allow you to reconnect with the present moment when the symptoms of PTSD distract you.

Express feelings without words

there is no need to explain everything you go through as interactions with a horse will let you communicate feelings you are not ready to verbalize yet.

Step outside your usual setting

we encourage our patients to leave the residential setting for fresh air and a different environment for a change of pace and new experiences.

Why Choose Equine Therapy?

Equine therapy in California may suit people who find talk-only sessions difficult – for some individuals, sitting across from a clinician makes it harder to stay engaged or open up. Working beside a horse in a different therapeutic setting might be more useful – grooming, observing, and guiding an animal will give you something concrete to do while you notice your emotions and reactions. Instead of relying on conversations, this shared, hands-on experience will let you explore your inner mind.

The things that come up during equine therapy sessions can become useful material for Individual Therapy and Trauma Therapy – your reactions to the horse, a certain hesitation, or a sudden feeling can be explored further in counseling. Note that equine work is not automatically included in your care plan – we match every patient with modalities they need to succeed which includes in-house practices such as Yoga Therapy and Sound Bath Therapy.

Who Is Equine Therapy For?

Equine therapy complements clinical care within the residential program offering experiential opportunities in addition to traditional treatment. It may support individuals diagnosed with PTSD, depression, or anxiety as it provides yet another setting for reflection and therapeutic growth.

No prior horse experience is needed – sessions are guided for beginners, and our center’s pet-friendly environment confirms that positive human-animal connection can facilitate the patient’s recovery.

How Distress Can Show Up	What It Might Feel Like	How Equine Therapy Helps
Emotions	Feeling irritated, numb, and unsure how to explain what is going on	Figure out how to focus and notice your emotions by spending time with a horse
Relationships	Becoming guarded, pulling away from friends and family, feeling unable to trust others	Working with a horse will encourage patience and enhance your self-awareness
Body	Muscle tension, shallow breathing, a disconnection from one’s body	Diverse guided activities will let you focus on your own physical activities
Daily life	Avoidance of social events, struggling to concentrate, inability to take care of daily tasks	Practice calm, steady engagement, and attention during structured sessions

What Should I Expect During Equine Therapy?

Here is what you may expect during equine-assisted therapy at California Mental Health:

Preparing at the Residence

You will review the day’s plan with a clinician, gather what you need, and talk about your expectations before heading out for the session.

Traveling to the Partner Facility

Patients travel from the clinic to the partner facility with the appropriate support – this change of surroundings will give you a chance to shift from your usual routine.

Orientation and Safety

Once you arrive, an equine specialist will show you the setting, introduce you to the horses, and list basic safety guidelines so that you know how to interact with animals comfortably.

Guided Interaction

The session may include observing, grooming, walking with a horse, or gently guiding the animal. A facilitator will be with you at all times – they will watch how the interaction unfolds and help you notice your reactions.

Connection to Your Care Plan

The participation and frequency of sessions depends on the treatment strategy every patient follows – we believe in the effectiveness of the Individualized Treatment approach.

Carrying It Forward

After you return to the center, you can discuss what you have noticed during interactions with a horse with your therapist.

Equine Therapy Techniques

Equine therapy in California involves a range of activities that encourage observation, communication, and awareness – the following techniques as well as practices featured on our Therapy Options hub are often implemented by our facilitators.

Observation

Observe the movements, posture, and responses of a horse quietly while also paying attention to your own emotions,

physical sensations, and even intrusive thoughts if they arise.

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Grooming and Care

This is a simple, hands-on activity you may participate in to foster patience – use the opportunity to practice gentle,

consistent interaction with a horse.

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Leading and Groundwork

Guiding a horse through simple ground-based exercises or simply walking beside an animal will help you become more aware

of how your actions influence the interaction at hand.

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Boundary and Trust Exercises

Learn to respect the personal space of the animal and build trust through predictable interactions – later, you will connect

these experiences with patterns you explore in Trauma Therapy.

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Mindfulness With Horses

When you focus on the horse and your breathing, you can become more aware of the present moment – this mindfulness

-based technique is a part of our Holistic Approach.

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Reflection With a Facilitator

Talk to a facilitator about the things you have noticed during the session – this includes reactions, feelings,

and even relationship patterns that can be later analyzed in a traditional therapy setting.

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Levels of Care for Equine Therapy

Horse therapy for mental health is delivered in person – you will be escorted by staff from our residence which is why it is available as a part of Residential Treatment only. Our What We Treat programs will offer you different forms of support alongside equine therapy – learn more about therapy options via a Levels of Care overview.

RESIDENTIAL CARE WITH EQUINE THERAPY

Residential Treatment

We provide our patients with a home base for equine sessions – staff will accompany you to the partner facility and support you between outings.

A licensed nurse is available onsite round-the-clock
Clinical staff is going to support you in a 24/7 stabilization environment
Equine therapy will be incorporated into your treatment strategy

FLEXIBLE CARE FROM HOME

Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

When you are ready to continue individual or group therapy from home, remote counseling will serve as a complementary step-down option. Equine therapy is not included in virtual care.

Reach out to California Mental Health through our Contact Us page or at (408) 457-1453 to arrange a free, confidential assessment and learn more about equine therapy in California.

Why Choose California Mental Health for Equine Therapy?

Equine-assisted therapy is one of the several holistic and experiential options available at our center – we will map out a customized treatment plan that will include it as long as it matches your goals.

Our patients can count on consistent Clinical Support – recover in a welcoming environment with a high staff-to-client ratio and a licensed nurse onsite.

In order to accommodate our clients, we accept most major insurance plans – we discuss insurance coverage before your care begins and disclose all potential costs.

Same-day admissions are arranged for qualifying patients – Our Team will guide you through the process when you need urgent mental health support, and you may read more about Why Us to gain more insight into the care experience.

Our patients can count on consistent Clinical Support – recover in a welcoming environment with a high staff-to-client ratio and a licensed nurse onsite.

In order to accommodate our clients, we accept most major insurance plans – we discuss insurance coverage before your care begins and disclose all potential costs.

LOCATIONS

Equine Therapy Near Me

Our San Martin-based clinic offers experiential therapy in California – we work with adults from across the state, and equine therapy sessions take place at a nearby partner facility. You may explore California Mental Health through our Tour Our Facility page before your first visit and find the areas we serve on Locations Served.

Visit whichever of our two San Martin locations is closer for you:

Call us at (408) 457-1453 or check your coverage via Verify Insurance.

How to Start Equine Therapy?

If you want to undergo animal-assisted therapy in California at our facility, sign up for a confidential assessment – once we confirm that equine therapy is the right solution for you, we will include it in your customized plan of treatment. The Admissions Process is streamlined, and we frequently arrange same-day admissions for our patients.

Call (408) 457-1453 or visit our Contact Us page to get in touch with California Mental Health – practice emotional regulation and self-awareness through guided interactions with horses.

There are four straightforward steps to take:

Reach out. Access 24/7 confidential support – there is no obligation as you have a confidential conversation with our specialists.

Review coverage. We will explain what your insurance plan covers – you may also check your benefits through our Verify Insurance page.

Sit down for an assessment. A clinician will explore your history and goals before coming up with a personalized treatment plan.

Start healing. Equine therapy will be incorporated into your residential schedule once you are settled in.

Equine Therapy FAQs

What Is Equine-Assisted Therapy and How Does It Work?

Equine-assisted therapy is a guided, ground-based interaction with horses – observing, grooming, or leading an animal while a facilitator helps you notice how you respond. Because a horse reacts immediately to your energy, body language, and boundaries, the session surfaces patterns that can be missed in a talk-only setting, which is why it sits within our holistic approach alongside the clinical care in our What We Treat programs.

Do I Need Any Experience With Horses to Take Part?

No – sessions are guided for complete beginners, and no prior horse experience is required. The activities you take part in and how often you attend are set by your clinical team through our individualized treatment approach, so the work starts at a level that feels comfortable.

Where Do Equine Therapy Sessions Take Place?

Sessions take place outdoors at a local equine partner facility near our San Martin residence, and staff accompany you there and back. You stay connected to the clinical team overseeing your care throughout – take a tour of our facility to see your home base, and review the locations we serve to confirm we work with your area.

How Does Equine Therapy Help With Trauma or PTSD?

Focusing on a horse, your surroundings, and a concrete task pulls attention back to the present when PTSD symptoms intrude, and the animal’s predictable responses give you a safe way to practice trust and boundaries. What comes up in the arena – a hesitation, a sudden feeling – becomes material to explore further in trauma therapy.

Is Equine Therapy Safe for Someone Who Is Nervous Around Animals?

Yes – an equine specialist walks you through the setting and basic safety guidelines before any contact, a facilitator stays with you at all times, and you can begin with quiet observation rather than hands-on activity. The pace is designed to build confidence gradually, which is why it is offered alongside anxiety treatment, with clinical support available throughout your stay.

Is Equine Therapy Included in Residential Treatment and Covered by Insurance?

Equine therapy is offered only within residential treatment and is added to your plan when it matches your goals rather than automatically. California Mental Health accepts most major insurance plans and discloses all potential costs before care begins – verify your coverage online or ask our admissions team what your plan includes.

Progress can begin with a different kind of connection. Contact California Mental Health at (408) 457-1453 or visit our Contact Us page to schedule a free, confidential assessment.

Equine Therapy in California - Expert Care & Support

Hard to Open Up? Equine Therapy at California Mental Health Can Help

Let a Horse Show You What Words Can't

Meet Our Team

Joshua Fane

Jeannie Anderson

Joshua Fane

Jeannie Anderson

Erica Pace

What Is Equine Therapy?

Equine Therapy Benefits

Why Choose Equine Therapy?

Who Is Equine Therapy For?

What Should I Expect During Equine Therapy?

Preparing at the Residence

Traveling to the Partner Facility

Orientation and Safety

Guided Interaction

Connection to Your Care Plan

Carrying It Forward

Equine Therapy Techniques

Observation

Grooming and Care

Leading and Groundwork

Boundary and Trust Exercises

Mindfulness With Horses

Reflection With a Facilitator

Levels of Care for Equine Therapy

Why Choose California Mental Health for Equine Therapy?

Equine Therapy Near Me

How to Start Equine Therapy?

Equine Therapy FAQs

CDSS

DHCS

Joint Commission

Our Admissions Team is here for you 24/7

Verify Your Insurance

Embark on Your Journey to Wellness

What We Treat

Therapy Options

Levels of Care

Mental Health Approach