Forest Equine Therapy
Forest Equine Therapy

Connecting with horses for wellbeing and growth

Connecting with horses for wellbeing and growthConnecting with horses for wellbeing and growthConnecting with horses for wellbeing and growth

Forest Equine Therapy

About us

About US

Forest Equine Therapy is located in Thorney Hill, a village set within the open heathland and ancient woodland of the New Forest national park. Led by directors Liz and Emily, the practice grew from witnessing firsthand the profound impact of equine-assisted work.


We offer equine-assisted activities and therapy (EAAT) to individuals of all ages, including those looking for new ways to engage, build confidence and self-esteem, and enhance overall wellbeing. Our sessions provide a unique opportunity to connect with horses in a natural, forest setting, and experience the benefits of working alongside these highly intuitive animals.  


Our horses are an intrinsic part of the process, and are given the space to express their innate behaviours and live as a small herd in the surrounding fields. Next to the yard, the annex provides a quiet, relaxing space to sit and reflect.


Find out more

    A journey to self-discovery

    As prey animals, highly attuned to their environment, horses reflect how we are really feeling, beneath any masks we may need to wear throughout the day.  


    By working with and understanding their highly sensitive nature - which mirrors human emotions - moments of profound self-discovery and awareness arise, and opportunities emerge for new ways of being and engaging with the world, driven by a desire to connect.  


    Our work is grounded in the human-equine bond, built on trust, mutual respect, and autonomy. Sessions take place in the yard, surrounding fields, and open forest, with no prior riding or horse-handling experience required.

    Current programmes

    Current programmes

    Equine Assisted Therapeutic Sessions:

    These sessions involve guided interactions with horses, with a focus on observation, awareness, and how we respond in the moment. Sessions can support emotional regulation, confidence, boundaries, and self-understanding, and are offered either as one-off experiences or as part of an ongoing series of sessions.


    For those who benefit from hands-on and experiential learning, we also have a modular alternative learning programme, which can be adapted to individual learning needs.


    Psychotherapy and integrated work:

    We offer psychotherapy for adults and children in the annex next to the yard, for those looking to further explore their inner world. Sessions can be offered independently or combined with equine-assisted work as a gradual introduction to talking therapy, starting with non-verbal, reflective experiences in the presence of horses.


    Forest Art:

    This year we are introducing a new Forest Art programme, guided by an art therapist. Using the surrounding forest as a source of inspiration, participants are invited to slow down, observe the world around them, and explore new forms of creative expression.


    To learn more about our work or to book a session, please get in touch using the link below.

    Get in contact

    A complementary approach

    EAAT offers a complementary approach rooted in several interconnected frameworks and principles that address human and equine wellbeing, including the human-animal bond theory, the biophilia hypothesis and the five domains model. 


    Our equine facilitators hold the nationally recognised Level 3 OCNLR Diploma in Equine Assisted Services and bring years of horsemanship experience. Committed to ongoing professional development, they are members of the Federation of Horses in Education and Therapy International (HETI).  Psychotherapy and art therapies are delivered by qualified therapists, offering structured, evidence-informed support for emotional exploration, expression, and psychological wellbeing.


    Our services are fully insured, including public liability, and all activities thoroughly risk assessed. We follow strict safeguarding policies to ensure a safe environment for all clients, and all facilitators are first aid trained and hold an enhanced DBS check.

    See key policies

    The evidence base

    EAAT has expanded in recent decades and the evidence base is growing - please find below a selection of findings on its effectiveness:


    •  A 2023 review found that EAAT significantly improved cognition and communication in individuals with ASD. Read more
    • A 2020 study by Hartpury University reported a significant improvement in wellbeing after EAAT, enhancing confidence, calmness, and communication. Read more 
    • A 2020 systematic review indicated a general improvement across multiple outcomes for children with ADHD. Read more
    • A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated that EAAT is beneficial in reducing PTSD symptoms among military veterans. ​Read more
    • Research has shown that EAAT increases serotonin levels and reduce cortisol, contributing to stress reduction. Read more

    Who would most benefit

    • Individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, or feelings of overwhelm, seeking gentle ways to restore balance and calm.
    • Those in need of coregulation and grounding strategies to reconnect with themselves and the present moment.
    • People looking to boost confidence, self-esteem, and personal empowerment through mindful practices.
    • Anyone seeking a deeper connection with animals and nature, interested in immersive, calming, and restorative experiential activities.


    Get in contact

    Our key policies

    Child protection policy
    General safeguarding policy
    Health and Safety policy
    Complaints policy
    Equine welfare policy
    Privacy policy

    "What you do is incredible. The magic of horses is real"

    "An excellent support service which I would recommend without reservation"

    "Your support and empathy towards my daughter was amazing, helping her to believe in herself again"

    "It was a wonderful experience from start to finish"

    "What you do is incredible. The magic of horses is real"

    "An excellent support service which I would recommend without reservation"

    "Your support and empathy towards my daughter was amazing, helping her to believe in herself again"

    "It was a wonderful experience from start to finish"

    "What you do is incredible. The magic of horses is real"

    "An excellent support service which I would recommend without reservation"

    "Your support and empathy towards my daughter was amazing, helping her to believe in herself again"

    "It was a wonderful experience from start to finish"

    "What you do is incredible. The magic of horses is real"

    "An excellent support service which I would recommend without reservation"

    "Your support and empathy towards my daughter was amazing, helping her to believe in herself again"

    "It was a wonderful experience from start to finish"

    "What you do is incredible. The magic of horses is real"

    "An excellent support service which I would recommend without reservation"

    "Your support and empathy towards my daughter was amazing, helping her to believe in herself again"

    "It was a wonderful experience from start to finish"

    "What you do is incredible. The magic of horses is real"

    "An excellent support service which I would recommend without reservation"

    "Your support and empathy towards my daughter was amazing, helping her to believe in herself again"

    "It was a wonderful experience from start to finish"

    Get in contact

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    Hours

    Mon

    09:00 – 17:00

    Tue

    09:00 – 17:00

    Wed

    09:00 – 17:00

    Thu

    09:00 – 17:00

    Fri

    09:00 – 17:00

    Sat

    By Appointment

    Sun

    By Appointment


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