Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is an innovative therapeutic approach that leverages the unique qualities of horses to facilitate emotional and psychological growth. At Operation HOPE, we specialize in providing EAP to individuals seeking alternative methods to address mental health challenges. In this comprehensive guide, we address common questions to help you understand what to expect from our sessions.

Is There Any Riding During Sessions?

No, all our sessions are conducted exclusively on the ground. If you’re interested in horseback riding lessons, we can refer you to appropriate facilities.

Is Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy Appropriate for All Ages?

Due to the use of metaphorical work in our sessions, we currently offer services to individuals aged 12 and older.

Do I Need Experience with Horses or Animals?

No prior experience with horses or animals is necessary to participate in our sessions.

How Much Do Sessions Cost?

For equine therapy, health insurance does not cover this and it is $260 per session. This cost goes to the non profit rescue farm in caring for the animals and working with two therapists. 

Can I Stay at the Farm While Waiting for My Spouse or Child?

As our farms are private residences, we kindly ask that you wait in or near your car during your loved one’s session. Alternatively, you might consider visiting nearby parks.

Where Should I Wait Upon Arrival?

Upon arrival, please remain in or near your car. A team member will come to escort you to your session.

What Should I Wear to Sessions?

We require all participants to wear closed-toed shoes (no flip-flops or Uggs) and recommend wearing long pants for safety and comfort.

Can I Hang Out at the Farm While I Wait for My Spouse or Child to Finish Their Session? The farms are private homes. Therefore, we kindly ask that you wait in or near your car or please visit one of the beautiful parks nearby.

What Should I Bring to My Session?

Please bring your payment for session fee.

What Should I Do When I Arrive for My Session?

If your session is at the Bluemont farm, park outside the gate without parking on the grass. Text us upon arrival and avoid ringing the bell. For sessions at the Three Sisters farm, drive slowly, park on the grass, and text us when you arrive.

Why Choose Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy?

EAP offers a unique therapeutic experience by incorporating horses into the healing process. Horses are sensitive and intuitive animals that can mirror human emotions, providing immediate feedback during interactions. This dynamic facilitates self-awareness, emotional regulation, and personal growth.

Benefits of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy:

  • Enhanced Trust: Building a relationship with a horse can improve your ability to trust others.
  • Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Interacting with horses in a calm environment can decrease stress levels.
  • Improved Self-Esteem: Successfully engaging with horses can boost your self-confidence.
  • Development of Grounding Techniques: Horses help individuals stay present, aiding in the development of grounding strategies.
  • Better Understanding of Boundaries: Working with horses teaches the importance of setting and respecting personal boundaries.

Who Can Benefit from EAP?

Our program serves clients with a history of PTSD, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, attention deficit disorder, relationship issues, and more. We also focus on providing services to first responders and their families.

Our Mission and Vision:

Operation HOPE aims to offer an alternative therapeutic option for individuals seeking new approaches to mental health challenges. We strive to help clients build healthy, connected relationships with themselves, others, and the natural world.

Meet Our Team:

  • Sara Velez, LCSW and EAGALA Certified: Sara holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Miami and a Master of Social Work from Monmouth University. She is passionate about helping individuals heal from trauma and addiction.
  • Brooke Lichter, LCSW and EAGALA Certified: Brooke earned her Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Social Work from Monmouth University. She has extensive experience with animals and is dedicated to combining her love for horses with her commitment to helping people.

Additional Services:

Beyond EAP, we offer talk therapy via telehealth and ecotherapy (outdoor/nature-based therapy). We accept Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ for telehealth and ecotherapy sessions. For EAP sessions, we accept self-pay and can provide a superbill.

Session Fees:

  • Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy: $250 per session (includes two LCSW/equine-certified therapists and a donation to the rescue animals at the farm).
  • Ecotherapy and Telehealth: $160 per session or covered by Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ 

Contact Us:

If you have further questions or wish to schedule a session, please reach out to us at 732-497-8078 or via email at info@operationhopenj.com.

At Operation HOPE, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective therapeutic services to support your mental health journey.

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