Programs and Services

Programs and Services

The Osage Corral offers individual, group and family Equine Assisted Counseling (EAC) services to children and families facing a range of mental health, behavioral and educational challenges. We have had good results treating childhood trauma related issues, including post adoptive family concerns, ADHD, mood and behavior problems, and autism spectrum disorders. And while everyone can certainly benefit from this proven approach, EAC is especially effective with children and adolescents who, for a variety of reasons, are more difficult to engage in traditional therapeutic settings.

In addition to the specific clinical benefits, we have found that the novelty of the equine setting combined with the innate affiliation that most children feel for horses and nature (biophilia) quickly engages them. It also provides a normative, fun experience that has additional healing benefits including the overall reduction of stress and the building of resilience and protective factors.

EAC can serve as the primary counseling modality or as an adjunct therapy, supporting and enhancing the effectiveness of more traditional forms of therapy. As a primary approach to treatment, our program consists of 12-16 weekly sessions. Sessions typically last 1.5 – 2 hours. The process begins with an in-office assessment, including a thorough developmental history, pre-testing and treatment planning. There is also a final office session to review progress and post test results and make recommendations. As an adjunct therapy, 4-6 weekly sessions can provide a unique experiential opportunity for reinforcing and supporting specific new skills.

There are several funding sources available to help cover the costs of our program. Referrals for our services are frequently made by other counselors and social workers, case managers and school personnel.  A referral however is not required to access our services.

The Osage Corral also offers therapeutic and enrichment day camps in the summer as well as retreats, workshops and professional development opportunities.