“Working with Belle (horse) brought to mind my struggles with addiction and isolation or other mental health problems I’ve faced. If I can keep them groomed and guide them like we do the horses, take care of my issues and not neglect them or be overpowered by them, then I can stay on track. Just like the horse needs, if I can give myself guidance and hold my ground, then I can walk safely home.” –Veteran Workshop Client

“Working with the equine therapy program at NCEFT has been such a wonderful addition to the residential PTSD Rehabilitation Program. It’s been truly inspiring to see how the veterans grow, connect, and form bonds with the horses and their peers visit to visit, and at times in just one session. Being able to approach this experience, try something new, and connect to their larger world helps to increase the veterans’ self-esteem and provide a sense of resilience all while reducing anxiety and depression. The NCEFT staff have facilitated this experience beautifully and support our veterans where they are at and are a joy to work with. We are so grateful to have the opportunity to work with NCEFT.” – Suzanne Deisher, LCAT, ATR-BC, APCC, AMFT (Veteran Workshop Counselor) 

“Arturo began physical therapy with NCEFT once he turned two in January this year. He loves coming to see the horses. He has Cortical Visual Impairment which causes issues with depth perception. When he started traditional physical therapy at 8 months, he had challenges sitting up and wasn’t confident walking at 2 years old. Within a few weeks of starting PT on horseback at NCEFT he took his first independent steps. Now, he walks independently at home. Arturo is learning compensatory visual strategies in vision therapy for safe ambulation in unfamiliar environments. While in physical therapy, NCEFT helps give him better access to his other sensory systems. He develops his strength and motor coordination to support exploration and catching-up with his age-appropriate skills. Arturo demonstrates growth, strength and resilience every time he visits NCEFT”. — Parent of an Occupational Therapy Client

“Alice has come to NCEFT for occupational therapy services since 2019. She was diagnosed with Prader-Willi syndrome as an infant. Since starting at NCEFT, her postural control, fine motor skills, and executive functioning are areas where Alice has made significant gains. She loves to try new activities and puts her full trust into her equine counterpart by sitting in various positions (forwards, backwards, and sideways). She also participates in brain games while in a squat position on the horse’s back. In addition to receiving occupational therapy, Alice has participated in NCEFT’s Spring Fling Rider’s Showcase and Happy Trails Camp. Alice’s favorite horse is Pistol, and she loves visiting with the donkeys when she comes for sessions.” — Parent of an Occupational Therapy Client

“Aiden had a stroke when he was three, and was diagnosed with hydrocephalus and cerebral palsy. He began sessions at NCEFT in 2023 and since then, his moods, GI issues, stamina, and flexibility have all improved. At first, Aidan was unable to endure a 30-minute session but now he’s even able to ride backwards for a significant amount of the time. After his sessions, his gait is smooth and he’s able to move his body better. He lights up when he arrives at NCEFT.” – Parent of a Physical Therapy Client