City Lifestyle

Want to start a publication?

Learn More

Featured Article

Threads of Healing Through Equine Therapy

A Round Up of Healing and Restoration in Our Community

Article by Cassandra Green

Photography by Kim Beer Photography, Mustard Seed Ranch, Gillian Parker

Originally published in Parker City Lifestyle

Equine therapy is such a diverse thread of healing as well as an impactful experience. The following organizations are making a difference toward hope and healing. They’re taking the emptiness of pain and providing a space for rescue, safety and restoration.

Frannie’s Equine Haven

Let Go | Show Up | Be The Light

In this safe space where showing up is enough, Frannie’s Equine Haven provides a coaching method that encourages people to let go of what no longer serves them. Through experiential healing with horses, people are able to embrace the best version of themselves in order to move into the life that is waiting for them. This method brings awareness to the unfinished business that may be holding people back and is somatically released through a creative and experiential session.

FranniesEquineHaven.com | 720.773.1173

Mustard Seed Ranch

A mental health program for at-risk youth who have experienced abuse or neglect. Mustard Seed Ranch (MSR) provides equine-assisted psychotherapy specifically for youth who have experienced trauma. As the youth and their horse grow in relationship and trust, a genuine healing takes place. What trauma has stolen, the bond between horse and youth restores. Youth can learn how to build relationships with people once more. MSR relies heavily on volunteers and donations because they do not charge for their services. 

Facebook.com/MSRvergreen | 303.249.8888

Robin’s Nest Foundation, Inc.

Wendy Ingrahm, long-time Colorado resident and owner of Sky View Farm, founded Robin’s Nest Foundation in 2019 to help individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, autism, dyslexia, PTSD and more. Their heart is to support mental health in the community. They provide one-on-one equine therapy, youth empowerment group therapy programs, individual and group volunteer opportunities and public outreach. They host events such as hug-a-horse, yoga in the barn, birthday parties and more. They also have annual fundraisers.

RobinsNestCharity.org | 310.844.2627

Whole Heart Ranch

For business leaders, professionals, solopreneurs and more, Whole Heart Ranch creates a space where leaders can learn from horses. The innate emotional intelligence horses have is beyond a workshop. It’s an experience, an intelligence and according to Whole Heart Ranch, an agility. Founder Amy Budd states, “ I believe horses are agents of change and have the ability to awaken something deep inside our core and move us in a way we cannot achieve on our own.” Not only does she provide this form of therapy and training, she is also open to speaking opportunities as well.

WholeHeartRanch.com | 970.888.0820

Above the Spurs

By coaching through life experiences and confronting unfinished business that can linger like a shadow, Above the Spurs helps clients build strength, confidence and deepen self-awareness through their relationship with a horse. They emphasize how horses offer honest and immediate feedback, serving as "a mirror to your soul." Above the Spurs offers guidance and support as you tackle life's challenges, pursue your personal and professional aspirations and handle everyday issues. They assist in addressing thought patterns and limiting beliefs, enabling individuals to fully step in and embrace their lives.

AboveTheSpurs.com | 303.903.1390

Operation Equine

Equine therapy specific to military service members, veterans and emergency responders, Operation Equine declares, “We do not fight alone and we do not heal alone.” Their program includes a unique approach that helps clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves. Their mission is to empower those who serve our country to live fully and connected to those they love and the community. They also provide equine therapy to teams in the workplace. Overall they want to enrich relationships between people and enhance our understanding of one another.

OperationEquine.org | 720.588.303