Q: Do we ride the horses?
No. When a person is on a horse's back the horse is responding to how it was trained to respond. Instead, when a person is on the ground working with a horse, the horse is responding directly to the person and their energy in that moment. This makes for a very authentic experience that brings about real learnings that are specific to that client.
Q: Why horses?

Horses are able to read and mirror body language and are instinctively attuned to internal states for survival. This ability allows them to respond to behavior, inner conflicts, as well as, unspoken emotional states, such as fear, anger, sadness, and joy. This heightened sense of awareness makes the horse a perfect guide through the difficult process of self-discovery, healing, and growth.
Q: Who can benefit from Acres for Life?
Equine-assisted work has proven successful with individuals and groups from all walks of life: children, adolescents, families, couples, the elderly, and professional teams. Programs are specifically tailored for everything from addiction recovery to corporate team building, each with unique exercises that focus on the needs of the individual or the group.

Q: I have never been around horses, is that a problem?
No. When you contact Acres for Life, we can discuss anything you need to know about safety around horses and any other issues you may have.
Q: What should I wear for a session?

Dress comfortably. We work year-round in all types of weather, so dress for all types of Minnesota weather. While there is some protection from the cold, you will still be outside, so dress warmly in the winter months. It may be best to dress in layers to prepare for any type of weather since a session may start out at one temperature and change as the session progresses. Jeans are always appropriate. Closed toe shoes are required for footwear.
Q: What is the difference between Equine Assisted Learning and Equine Assisted Therapy?

Equine Assisted Learning is a personal growth process that helps participants develop improved communication skills, team building skills, healthier relationships, improved self confidence and self esteem, improved personal work ethics, greater recognition of responsibility, appropriate assertiveness and self discovery.
Equine Assisted Therapy is a collaborative effort between a licensed therapist and a horse professional. It is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, abuse issues, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs.
Q: I am afraid of horses. Can I still benefit from this type of therapy?
Absolutely! Working within our supportive environment, it is your fear that may prove especially effective in breaking through old patterns and revealing important insights. No prior knowledge of horses and/or horsemanship is necessary.

Q: What if I'm allergic to horses?
Contact Lynn Moore or Heather Jeffrey to discuss issues surrounding allergies. In many cases we can work around this so that you have a complete and exciting experience with minimal impact on you.
The therapists and equine specialists at Acres for Life are highly trained, both within their respective professions and by EAGALA, the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association. Continuing education and training, and third-party supervision are an ongoing part of our educational process.
Q: What is the pricing of a session?
Programs are individually designed for specific needs. Please contact us for specific pricing details.

We are happy to answer any further questions you may have about Acres for Life. Please contact us directly for additional information.