Equine Facilitated Learning and Psychotherapy

Why horses? Horses are intuitive animals that mirror human emotions and behaviors, providing real-time feedback on communication, leadership, and emotional expression. Their non-judgmental nature creates a safe space for personal insight, growth, and healing.

Part of the HERD

Equine Facilitated Therapy & Learning

Healing, Growth, and Learning Through and With the Power of Horses

 At Portal Point Counseling we offer Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) and Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL)—two distinct yet powerful approaches that integrate horse-human interactions to promote emotional well-being, self-awareness, and personal growth.

Our services are led by Rachel VanBuskirk, LMSW, who is trained through the HERD Institute, an internationally recognized leader in equine-facilitated work. The HERD Institute (Human Equine Relational Development) is founded on the belief that healing, learning, and growth occur through relationship and connection.

Through this relational, trauma-informed, and client-centered approach, the therapist ensures that each session is tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals and groups.

Our Equine Services

Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL) & Workshops

EFL is a ground-based learning experience that uses horse-human interactions to promote self-awareness, leadership skills, and teamwork. No riding is involved—all activities take place on the ground, making this an accessible and inclusive experience for all participants.

Who Can Benefit?

We work with teams, groups, and organizations looking to strengthen:

  • Leadership & Decision-Making- Learn how to communicate effectively and lead with confidence.

  • Teamwork & Collaboration- Improve trust, cooperation, and group problem-solving skills.

  • Self-Awareness & Emotional Intelligence– Horses respond to non-verbal cues, helping participants gain deeper insights into their own communication styles.

  • Stress Management & Mindfulness– Experience the calming and grounding effects of working with horses.

 Workshop Details & Pricing

We tailor each EFL session to the unique needs of your team or organization. Sessions can be held at our facility in a peaceful, natural setting, allowing for a refreshing break from traditional learning environments.

  • Hands-on, experiential learning that leaves a lasting impact

  • A unique and engaging approach to professional & personal growth

  • No prior horse experience needed—just an open mind!

Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP)

EFP is a therapeutic service led by a licensed mental health professional that incorporates horses into mental health treatment. It is a form of experiential therapy where clients engage in activities with horses (non-riding interactions) under the guidance of a licensed therapist and an equine specialist.

EFP leverages the intuitive nature of horses, which are highly sensitive to human emotions and nonverbal cues. The therapy typically follows these principles:

  • Relationship Building: Clients develop a bond with the horse, which mirrors their personal relationships and emotional states.

  • Mindfulness & Regulation: Working with horses requires patience, calmness, and self-awareness, helping clients regulate their emotions.

  • Metaphor for Life Challenges: Interactions with horses often serve as a metaphor for real-life struggles, allowing therapists to address personal issues in a non-threatening way.

  • Immediate Feedback: Horses react authentically to a person’s emotional energy, providing instant feedback and helping clients recognize behavioral patterns.

    Who Can Benefit?

    • People with Trauma & PTSD

    • Those with Anxiety & Depression

    • Individuals with Autism & Neurodivergent Conditions

    • Youth (helping with self-esteem, emotional regulation)

    • Those Struggling with Addiction or Eating Disorders

Insurance & Billing:

Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) sessions may be billed through insurance as part of your mental health treatment or private pay. Please contact us to verify coverage and eligibility.

Schedule a Session or Workshop

 Whether you’re looking for therapy, personal development, or a unique team-building experience… Contact Us Today to learn more.

Please contact: Admin




“You are not working on the horse. You are working on yourself. ”
— Ray Hunt