Where Can I Find Horse Therapy for Emotional Support in Northern California / Siskiyou County?

If you’re searching for horse therapy—also known as equine-assisted therapy—in Northern California or Siskiyou County, you’re not alone. More individuals, families, and veterans are turning to this powerful, experiential approach to emotional healing as an alternative or complement to traditional therapy.

But finding the right program can feel overwhelming, especially in a rural region like the North State. Here’s what you need to know—and where to start.

What Is Horse Therapy?

Equine-assisted therapy is a form of mental health support that involves guided interactions with horses. Programs often follow structured models like the EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) approach, where a licensed mental health professional and an equine specialist work together with the client.

Unlike horseback riding lessons, most therapeutic programs are ground-based, meaning there is no riding involved. Instead, participants engage in activities alongside the horse, allowing for reflection, emotional awareness, and personal growth.

Horses are highly intuitive animals that respond to human emotions and behavior, offering real-time, nonjudgmental feedback that can help individuals better understand themselves.

Who Can Benefit from Equine Therapy?

Horse therapy is used to support a wide range of emotional and mental health needs, including:

• Anxiety and depression

• PTSD and trauma

• Grief and life transitions

• Relationship challenges

• Youth behavioral and developmental concerns

Programs are often designed for individuals, families, children, veterans, and first responders—making it a highly adaptable form of care.

Where to Find Horse Therapy in Siskiyou County

Major's Place

Animal Assisted Therapy

Located in McCloud, Major’s Place is a nonprofit equine-assisted therapy program serving Siskiyou and Shasta Counties. The organization is an EAGALA-certified provider, offering structured equine-assisted psychotherapy and learning programs in a private, nature-based setting.

At Major’s Place, sessions are facilitated by both a licensed mental health professional and an equine specialist, creating a collaborative and supportive environment for emotional healing. Their programs support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other life challenges, with options for youth, families, veterans, and first responders.

They also offer scholarship opportunities to help make services accessible within the community.

Other Options to Explore

While options in Siskiyou County are limited due to its rural nature, there are additional resources in Northern California:

• Heal Therapy, Inc. – Offers equine-facilitated psychotherapy and experiential learning services in the region.

• The EAGALA program directory allows you to search for certified equine therapy providers throughout California and beyond.

  
  

What to Look for in a Program

When choosing a horse therapy provider, consider:

• Certification: Look for programs affiliated with recognized models like EAGALA

• Clinical Support: Ensure a licensed mental health professional is involved if you are seeking therapy (not just horsemanship)

• Environment: A safe, structured, and supportive setting is essential

• Accessibility: Ask about scholarships or partnerships if cost is a concern

  
  

Why Horse Therapy Matters—Especially in Rural Communities

In areas like Siskiyou County, access to mental health services can be limited. Equine-assisted therapy offers a unique, community-based solution that meets people where they are—both emotionally and geographically.

By combining nature, movement, and meaningful connection, horse therapy creates a space where individuals can feel seen, supported, and empowered to move forward.

Taking the First Step

If you or someone you love is looking for emotional support, exploring equine therapy could be a meaningful next step. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, trauma, or simply seeking personal growth, the connection between humans and horses has the potential to create lasting change.