Question 1

What is included in my fee?

Accepted Answer

✔ 4 days, horseback journey
✔ Horse rental, tack, feed
✔ Campground fees an supplier
✔ Group therapy circles around the fire each evening with 3 therapist/ horse women
✔ Daily horsemanship instruction & horse care
✔ Journaling prompts and reflection activities
✔ 1:1 and group support as needed

Question 2

Why type of horse experience is needed?

Accepted Answer

You will need to have some basic skills in horsemanship and have a lesson with our horse instructor to make sure of your readiness. This can be set up in advance of the retreat by contacting Kat Heggen at The Barn for Equine Learning.

Question 3

Do I need previous backpacking or camping experience

Accepted Answer

No, You do not need to have previous backpacking and camping experience. Tents will be provided  and a packing list will be provided once you have signed up for the adventure.

Question 4

Who is this program for?

Accepted Answer

Roots & Reins is for young women ages 18–26 who want to build confidence, self-trust, and identity through challenge, connection, and therapeutic support.

Question 5

Is this therapy or a retreat?

Accepted Answer

This is a therapeutic experience and adventure, not just a retreat. Licensed therapists facilitate daily  therapy circles, reflections, and horseback trail riding. You will be working with a horse and with group members to develop a deeper understanding how you navigate challenges and connection .

Question 6

What types of challenges do women bring to this adventure?

Accepted Answer

Anxiety, self-doubt, difficulty with boundaries or responsibility, life transitions, feeling stuck or disconnected.

Question 7

Is this appropriate if I am already in therapy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many participants attend alongside individual therapy. With consent, this experience can complement ongoing therapeutic work.

Question 8

How is safety Handled

Accepted Answer

Safety is a top priority. The program includes:
Experienced therapist–equine specialists
Clear riding limits and mileage
First aid kits and communication equipment
Emotional support, grounding practices, and opt-out options when needed

Question 9

What if someone gets injured or overwhelmed

Accepted Answer

Staff are trained to respond to physical or emotional needs. Participants can take breaks, modify activities, or receive 1:1 support.

Question 10

Are horses safe and well cared for?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Horses are carefully selected, well-trained, and closely monitored by equine specialists. Horse welfare always comes first.

Question 11

What if I am scared of riding or being outdoors?

Accepted Answer

Fear is welcomed—not forced away. This program supports participants in meeting discomfort at their own pace, with encouragement and choice.

Question 12

What is a typical day like?

Accepted Answer

Morning horse care and intention-setting
Riding (6–12 miles depending on the day)
Camp setup and skill-building
Evening therapy circle, journaling, and reflection

Question 13

How demanding is the riding?

Accepted Answer

Rides are designed to be challenging but achievable. Mileage builds gradually, with plenty of breaks and support.

Question 14

Where do we sleep and eat?

Accepted Answer

Participants sleep in tents at a designated base camp. Breakfast and dinner are provided and participant work together to cook and care for themselves and each other; participants bring their own lunches and snacks.

Question 15

What  gear do I need?

Accepted Answer

Participants need:
Pillow and  sleeping bag
Personal clothing and toiletries
Lunches and snacks
A full packing list is provided before the trip.

Question 16

What do participants typically leave with?

Accepted Answer

Increased confidence and self-trust
Greater emotional awareness
Stronger boundaries
A clearer sense of identity and direction

Roots and Reins: A Therapeutic Horseback Adventure for Young Women, 18-26

Roots and Reins: A Therapeutic Horseback Adventure for Young Women 18-26

Good to know

Location

The Barn For Equine Learning

How do you want to get there?

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