


Weekly sessions may focus on topics such as:
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Managing stress
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Active listening
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Open-mindedness
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Celebrating
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Teamwork
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Communication
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Relationship
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Goal setting
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Overcoming challenges
In a world filled pressure and expectations teens often struggle in their role of exploring new independence and developing a strong sense of self. During this transition to adulthood, horses can offer teens a unique kind of support. Horses invite us to show up just as we are and discover what it means to be true to ourselves.
Rise in Strides is an equine-assisted psychotherapy group (EAP) designed specifically for teenage girls. This group offers a rewarding and hands-on experience with the horses of Rise Canyon Ranch. Together, participants can expect to engage with horses in fun activities that promote connection, communication and mindfulness. Our hope is that each teenage girl will feel welcomed into an accepting environment where they can unwind and allow friendships to grow.
Equine-assisted psychotherapy is an experiential form of therapy that integrates the horse-to-human connection. Working with horses allows the opportunity for teenage girls to feel more relaxed, confident, creative, hopeful and empowered in their lives. Our goal is that Rise in Strides offers an encouraging space where teenage girls can explore interests, build meaningful relationships, feel understood and experience a sense of belonging.
Program Overview: Rise in Strides
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Target Audience: Teenage girls navigating the transition to adulthood and the pressures of developing independence.
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Format: Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP)—a hands-on, experiential group therapy held at Rise Canyon Ranch.
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Core Philosophy: Leveraging the horse-to-human connection to provide an accepting environment where participants can "show up as they are."
Key Learning Pillars & Activities
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Authentic Connection:
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Using horses as non-judgmental partners to explore a true sense of self.
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Engaging in activities that mirror real-world social dynamics and personal boundaries.
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Experiential Skills:
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Mindfulness: Practicing presence and emotional regulation through equine interaction.
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Communication: Developing clear, assertive, and empathetic verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
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Relationship Building: Fostering peer friendships and a sense of belonging within the group.
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Developmental Goals
The program is designed to help teenage girls transition from feeling pressured to feeling empowered by achieving the following:
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Emotional Resilience: Moving from stress and expectation toward a state of relaxation and hope.
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Increased Confidence: Building self-assurance through successful, hands-on interactions with large animals.
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Creative Problem Solving: Encouraging "out of the box" thinking during ranch activities.
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Sense of Belonging: Creating a safe space where participants feel understood, welcomed, and valued.
The "Rise Canyon" Difference
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A "No-Pressure" Zone: An environment designed for "unwinding" away from the high expectations of daily teen life.
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Active Therapy: Shifting away from traditional "talk therapy" into movement-based, rewarding experiences.
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Long-Term Empowerment: Equipping participants with the tools to be more creative and confident in their personal lives.
Please submit the form below to inquire about our Rise in Strides group and we will contact you, usually within 48 hours.



