Equine Assisted Therapy
An experiential, relationship based approach to healing, guided by the Icarus Model.
This is a non riding therapy.
Healing Happens Through Connection
Sometimes growth happens more easily outside of a traditional office.
Equine-assisted therapy provides opportunities to build confidence, emotional awareness, communication skills, resilience, and self-regulation through interactions with horses in a structured therapeutic environment.
What Is Equine-Assisted Therapy?
Equine-assisted therapy is a therapeutic approach that incorporates horses into the treatment process under the guidance of a licensed mental health professional.
Sessions focus on:
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emotional regulation
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communication
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confidence building
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problem solving
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mindfulness
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relationship skills
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self-awareness
Why the Icarus Model?
Wild Ember Psychiatry & Therapy utilizes the Icarus Model®, an evidence-informed approach to equine-assisted psychotherapy that focuses on attachment, nervous system regulation, emotional awareness, and meaningful relationship-building.
As an Icarus Model Certified Practitioner, Ashleigh has completed specialized training in partnering with horses as therapeutic co-facilitators. Sessions are intentionally designed to help clients explore emotions, build self-awareness, strengthen communication skills, and develop healthier patterns of connection in a safe and supportive environment.
Unlike traditional riding programs, the Icarus Model emphasizes observing and interacting with horses in ways that reflect real-life relationships and emotional experiences. Horses naturally respond to human emotions, energy, and behavior, creating opportunities for insight, growth, and healing that can be difficult to access in a traditional office setting.
What Makes the Icarus Model Different?
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Relationship-centered and trauma-informed
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Focuses on emotional regulation and nervous system awareness
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Supports attachment healing and interpersonal growth
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Integrates experiential learning with traditional therapeutic principles
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Grounded in equine behavior and welfare
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No riding takes place during sessions
Who May Benefit?
Equine-assisted therapy may be helpful for:
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Anxiety
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Trauma and PTSD
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ADHD
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Autism Spectrum Disorder
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Depression
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Grief and loss
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Emotional regulation challenges
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Self-esteem and confidence building
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Veterans and first responders
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Children, adolescents, and adults seeking a more experiential approach to therapy
A Different Way to Heal
Sometimes healing happens through conversation. Sometimes healing happens through experience.
The horses at Wild Ember offer clients opportunities to slow down, become present, recognize patterns, and practice new ways of relating to themselves and others. Many clients find that the lessons learned in the arena translate directly into everyday life, relationships, and emotional wellbeing.
