Suzy’s* return from Iraq was anything but a smooth landing. She left her role in the Army with deep emotional wounds, feeling isolated and out of place back in civilian life. Once part of a team, she now felt disconnected from everyone around her. Conversations felt foreign, and the daily rhythm of civilian life was a far cry from the tightly woven structure she’d left behind. Diagnosed with PTSD, Suzy felt as if her sense of self had been retired against her will, and she wondered how—or if—she’d ever find her footing again.

When she began counseling at STEPS with Horses, Suzy was introduced to Max, a strong, regal horse who held a unique role within his herd. Like her, Max had also been retired from his career due to an injury, a change that initially left him feeling uncertain and out of sync. But Max had found his own way to adjust: after years of isolation, he had become a respected leader in his herd, known for his ability to protect and care for the more vulnerable horses. As Suzy learned more about Max’s story, she couldn’t help but see parts of herself in him. They had both come from lives where their roles were clearly defined and deeply meaningful—only to have that structure taken away.

What made Max even more special, her counselor told her, was that he didn’t just work with anyone. Max chose his clients, connecting only with those he felt truly drawn to. The day Max approached Suzy and stood quietly at her side, she felt a spark of something she hadn’t felt in a long time—honor, pride, and a sense of being seen.

Over the following weeks, Suzy spent more time with Max. There were no grand gestures, just quiet moments in the pasture where they’d stand side by side, sometimes close, sometimes at a distance. Max showed her a kind of acceptance that Suzy had feared she’d lost. He didn’t demand anything from her, didn’t require her to speak or explain herself. His calm, steady presence reminded her that even without words, there was still a way to connect.

Suzy began to see that Max’s role as a leader wasn’t loud or demanding. He led by example, simply being there for others in his herd, showing strength by standing with them rather than always directing them. She saw how Max, who had once struggled to get along with other horses, had become a grounding presence for the herd. Slowly, Suzy started to see herself in that light, too—someone who could still bring value, still lead, but in a new way.

​Max helped Suzy feel more comfortable reconnecting with others. His gentle, consistent presence showed her that she could rebuild her relationships with quiet confidence, one small step at a time. Working with Max didn’t erase Suzy’s struggles, but it reminded her of her inner strength and showed her that she could be a part of something meaningful again. In Max, Suzy found a kindred spirit—a reminder that though their paths had changed, there was still a place for both of them in this new world.
*Name and identifying details changed to protect client identity and privacy.

Grief and loss can leave a person feeling like a stranger in their own life. The weight of sorrow can feel endless, and the path forward often seems unclear. At STEPS With Horses, we walk beside people in those moments of pain—and we’ve seen how the healing presence of horses can guide them toward hope, trust, and connection again.

Audrey came to us carrying that kind of grief. She described it as a heaviness that never left her, a fog that dulled her relationships and drained her energy. She often felt like she was moving through each day on autopilot, disconnected from the world around her. When she first stepped into the pasture, she wasn’t sure what she was hoping for—only that she needed a place to breathe.

That’s when she met Sissy. Sissy is a wise and intuitive horse who is deeply connected to her herd, especially Max and Maggie. She has a strong sense of when to draw near and when to step back, always balancing closeness with boundaries. When Audrey first met her, Sissy didn’t hurry over. Instead, she stood quietly, watching with soft, thoughtful eyes. That gentle acceptance—without pressure or expectation—was exactly what Audrey needed.

Week after week, Audrey kept returning. She noticed how Sissy relied on her herd for comfort and security, often grazing shoulder to shoulder with Max or resting peacefully near Maggie. Sissy reminded Audrey that even the strongest don’t walk alone. Connection, Audrey realized, isn’t a weakness—it’s a lifeline. Slowly, she began to wonder if she, too, could lean on others instead of carrying her pain in isolation.

But just as important, Sissy also showed Audrey the importance of boundaries. Some days Sissy came close, brushing her muzzle along Audrey’s arm in quiet companionship. Other days, she chose to rest under the trees or stand apart with her herd. Audrey learned that saying no or taking space wasn’t rejection—it was an act of self-care. Watching Sissy, she began to give herself permission to listen to her own needs without guilt.

As their connection deepened, Audrey started to feel shifts within herself. The grief was still there—it may always be part of her story—but it no longer consumed her in the same way. One afternoon, standing with her hand pressed gently against Sissy’s warm coat, Audrey felt something she hadn’t in months: a spark of herself returning. Not the self she was before her loss, but a new self—stronger, braver, and open to trust again.

Through the patient, authentic presence of Sissy, Audrey discovered a way forward. She learned that healing isn’t about forgetting or erasing the pain, but about carrying it differently—supported by connection, strengthened by boundaries, and guided by the quiet wisdom of a horse.

This is the heart of equine-assisted counseling (often referred to as equine therapy). Horses like Sissy are not just animals in a pasture—they are partners in healing. They offer lessons that words alone cannot teach, opening pathways for people to reconnect with themselves and the world around them.

At STEPS With Horses, we are honored to witness these transformations every day. And we know they are only possible because of the generosity of our community. Every donation helps us care for our herd and provide counseling to those who are struggling with grief, trauma, and other challenges.
​
When you support STEPS With Horses, you make stories like Audrey’s possible. You give people a chance to breathe again, to find hope, and to begin again—with a horse walking quietly by their side.
Client name and identifying details have been changed to protect privacy.
👉 Your gift helps change lives. Click here to give today!
💚 Interested in beginning your own healing journey with Sissy and our herd? We’d love to walk beside you. Fill out our Counseling Interest Form to take the first step.

Bob:
Well well well… look who finally slowed down long enough for their interview. Gypsy, it’s about time.
Gypsy:
Hi Bob! I was just doing a quick spin and checking on the toys. You never know when someone’s hidden something good in there.
Bob:
You and those toys. But let’s start at the beginning—you’ve had quite a life, haven’t you?
Gypsy:
Oh, you could say that. I was born to my beautiful sorrel mom, Brittany, and my striking black-and-white dad, Jody. I’ve got two older brothers, Prince and JR, and a little brother named Watch. But I gave everyone a scare when I got sick as a newborn—spent a whole week at the vet with my Mama (not to be confused with my new bestie, Mama Mia). Thankfully, I made it through, and came back with plenty of cha-ching energy!
Bob:
That explains the name--All Wrights Lil Miss Cha-Ching, straight from All Wright Farm.
Gypsy:
That’s me! Named after the vet bill and proud of it. I’ve always been the spunky one—running, spinning, stopping, and doing it all over again just for fun.​

Bob:
And now you’re one of the stars here at STEPS With Horses. What’s your role these days?
Gypsy:
Oh, I love my job! I work in play therapy with the kids, and let me tell you—I’m all about the toys. I’m curious, energetic, and always up for a game. The kids feel safe around me, and I think they like that I’m a little goofy but still listen with my heart.
Bob:
You’ve got a gift, Gypsy. And you’re not just a hit with the little ones, right?
Gypsy:
Right again! The teenage girls from The Maples come out every week, and they love dolling me up—brushing my coat, giving me braids... I eat it up. Who wouldn’t want a fan club?
Bob:
Speaking of fans, I’ve noticed you’ve been sticking close to Mama Mia lately…
Gypsy:
She’s my best friend! She’s calm and sweet and makes me feel grounded—plus she lets me steal her hay sometimes. And Bob, don’t worry, I enjoy your company too… even if I give you a little sass now and then.
Bob:
You mean when you try to herd me like a sheepdog?
Gypsy:
It’s all in good fun. I’ve got to keep you humble. And those big horses? Please, I've dealt with llamas. I may be small, but I’ve been known to put a few in their place when they get too full of themselves.​

Interested in working with Donkey as a client? Complete a Counseling Interest Form!

Want to support Donkey's work? Join Donkey's Carrot Club!

David* was only three years old when he was adopted by a relative. While his adoptive family loved him deeply, the wounds from his early years remained just under the surface. He had little memory of his biological parents—only a lingering sense of confusion and anger that never seemed to go away.

By the time David arrived at equine-assisted counseling, he was 14 and already tired. Tired of being labeled the “angry kid.” Tired of yelling, punching walls, and watching people flinch or shut down around him. He didn’t want to be angry. But the emotions felt too big, too fast. And the only way he knew how to make them go away—even briefly—was through aggression.

Enter Donkey.

Donkey isn’t your typical therapy animal. Short in stature but wise beyond measure, he carries with him the quiet kind of strength—the kind that notices things others miss. From the beginning, David was different around Donkey. In place of shouting, there was silence. In place of slamming doors, a tentative hand reaching out to stroke soft fur. Donkey made David pause.

At first, David didn’t speak much during sessions. He wasn't sure how to explain what he felt without becoming overwhelmed. And, deep down, he worried that if he acted out, Donkey would be scared of him—or worse, go away. So he held it all in, bottling up the storm inside.

Then came the day his therapist gently invited him to talk about his biological parents. David had just mumbled, “I don’t know why they didn’t want me,” when Donkey turned his body and began slowly backing up toward him. It was a subtle movement—but one the equine specialist recognized immediately. This is how Donkey responds when he senses vulnerability or emotional distress. It's his way of saying: I’ve got your back.

For a long moment, neither David nor Donkey moved.
“I didn’t think animals could tell,” David said quietly, eyes fixed on the ground.

“They can,” his equine specialist replied. “Especially Donkey. He senses when people feel unsafe or unsure. And right now, he’s letting you know—he’s here. With you.”

David reached out, resting a hand on Donkey’s side. He didn’t cry. He didn’t yell. But for the first time, he didn’t hold it in. He talked.
About the anger. The guilt. The belief that there was something wrong with him—something that made him unlovable or unwanted. Donkey stayed close the entire time.

That moment was a turning point—not a sudden fix, but a shift.
Over the next few months, David began learning that anger is often a mask for deeper pain—sadness, fear, loss. He started exploring new ways to express those feelings. He practiced recognizing when the anger was building and learned tools to step away, breathe, or ask for help.

And through it all, Donkey remained a steady, calming presence—never demanding, never judging. Just being.

Why This Matters
For many children like David, traditional talk therapy can feel overwhelming or unsafe. Equine-assisted counseling offers a different path—one where healing begins not with words, but with presence.
Donkey didn’t teach David to stop being angry. He taught him that he didn’t have to be angry alone.
And that made all the difference.

Interested in working with Donkey as a client? Submit a Counseling Interest Form!
Want to support Donkey's work with more clients like David? Join Donkey's Carrot Club today!
​*Names and details changed to protect client privacy and identity

We are thrilled to share that STEPS With Horses has once again been recognized as a Guardian by the EQUUS Foundation—an honor that reflects our deep commitment to the welfare of our equine partners. Even more exciting: we are the only organization in North Texas so far to receive this distinction in 2025.

What Is an EQUUS Foundation Guardian?
The Guardian Seal is more than just a badge—it’s a promise. Awarded by the EQUUS Foundation, the nation's leading animal welfare charity focused exclusively on equines, the Guardian designation is given to equine organizations that demonstrate transparency, accountability, and the highest standards of care for their equines. Guardians commit to financial and operational transparency and allow public access to critical information regarding how equines are treated, supported, and integrated into program services.

Becoming a Guardian means opening our barn doors—literally and figuratively—to share how we care for our herd, how funds are used, and how we ensure every equine lives a healthy, safe, and meaningful life. This designation is a badge of integrity and speaks to the deep respect and responsibility we feel toward the animals who make our mission possible.

Why This Recognition Matters
In a world where animal-assisted programs are growing rapidly, it’s more important than ever that organizations demonstrate ethical and compassionate treatment of their therapy animals. The EQUUS Foundation Guardian designation is a mark of excellence and trust—one that donors, partners, and clients can rely on. It means we don’t just talk about equine welfare; we live it, invest in it, and constantly strive to improve it.

When supporters choose to give to STEPS With Horses, they’re not only supporting trauma survivors, veterans, children, and individuals facing mental health challenges—they’re also standing up for the equines that help make that healing possible. Being named a Guardian organization helps ensure that every donor dollar is stewarded with care and that our equine partners receive the respect and resources they deserve.

What Guardian-Level Care Looks Like
At STEPS With Horses, equines are not tools or props. They are partners. Friends. Healers. Teachers. We tailor every aspect of their care to meet their physical, emotional, and social needs. Here’s a closer look at what that means:
• Individualized Care PlansEach equine in our herd is unique. From the confident herd leader, Max, to the shy, reserved Echo who opens up only with certain clients, every equine receives a care plan suited to their personality, age, health status, and role within the program. These plans include customized feeding regimens, training routines, exercise schedules, and wellness checks.

• Physical and Emotional Wellness
Daily check-ins ensure we’re keeping track of physical health, while enrichment activities—like play sessions, riding lessons, or social time with herd mates—support emotional well-being. Equines are incredibly perceptive animals who can absorb and reflect the emotions of those around them. Because of this, we prioritize stress reduction and emotional rest as much as physical care.

• Autonomy and Choice
Perhaps most importantly, our equines have agency. We never force equines to participate in a counseling session. If an equine signals that they need a break, we listen. This fosters trust and respect between equines, staff, and clients. Our team is trained to recognize subtle cues in body language and energy that let us know when an equine is comfortable and when they’re not.

• Preventative and Proactive Veterinary Care
We work closely with our veterinarian and farrier to ensure our equines receive top-tier medical attention. Routine health care is paired with preventative strategies to address issues early. From dental checks to hoof care, we provide a holistic approach to equine health.

• The Freedom to Be Equines
Our equines enjoy pasture time where they can graze, roll, nap, and socialize—doing all the things horses and donkeys are meant to do. Rest and play are just as vital to their well-being as purposeful work. We honor their instincts, needs, and relationships.

A Closer Look at Our Herd
Our diverse herd includes senior equines with decades of wisdom, spirited minis with a playful streak, and gentle giants like Starbuck, who offer stability and grounding to anxious clients. Each equine brings something special to the healing journey. Let us introduce a few of our equine heroes:

• Starbuck
Starbuck is the largest member of our herd, but his size is matched by his enormous heart. He participates in both counseling and therapeutic riding sessions, offering a steady, calm presence to those processing trauma. Clients often describe feeling "seen" by Starbuck in a way they haven't experienced elsewhere.
• Mama Mia
A miniature horse with a sweet spirit, Mama Mia is a favorite in our child-focused sessions. Her small stature makes her less intimidating, but her nurturing demeanor creates powerful emotional connections with clients of all ages.

• Echo
A formerly wild mustang, Echo has an uncanny ability to sense emotional incongruence. Her attunement makes her an incredible partner in sessions involving trauma work and emotional regulation. She helps clients connect with their authentic selves.

• Max
Our confident herd leader, Max is a natural protector and guide. He sets the tone in group sessions, offering grounding and structure while remaining highly responsive to emotional shifts in the environment.

Every equine has a role. Every equine is valued.

What It Took to Become a Guardian
The EQUUS Foundation doesn't hand out Guardian status lightly. The application process is rigorous and includes detailed disclosures about our financials, governance, facilities, equine records, and welfare practices. Every question reflects the foundation's deep understanding of what true, ethical equine care entails.

From stall sanitation protocols to emergency evacuation plans, from feeding schedules to end-of-life planning, we were asked to show how we put our values into practice every single day. It was an opportunity to both showcase our strengths and identify areas where we can grow. We embrace that growth.

We also engage in continuing education, staying current on equine welfare research and training. Our staff and volunteers receive instruction not only in equine handling and safety but also in understanding equine behavior, trauma-informed practices, and compassionate care.

The Impact of Your Support
When you donate to STEPS With Horses, you're investing in the care of these remarkable animals as much as you are in the healing of our human clients. Your support helps us:

• Maintain high-quality hay and grain tailored to each equine’s dietary needs
• Provide vaccinations, dental care, farrier visits, and emergency vet services
• Planting grass and maintaining our pasture
• Purchase enrichment tools and training equipment
• Support staff training and development in equine wellness practices

Your generosity makes it possible for our equines to thrive—and in turn, for them to help our clients do the same.

Join Us in Celebrating
We invite you to celebrate this achievement with us—and with the equines who made it possible. Whether you sponsor an equine, attend an event, or simply share our mission with a friend, you’re helping us lead the way in ethical, compassionate equine-assisted mental health services.
Thank you for believing in our work. Thank you for honoring our herd.
We are incredibly proud to be recognized as a Guardian by the EQUUS Foundation for the second year in a row. As the only organization in North Texas to receive this distinction, we are more committed than ever to modeling excellence in both human healing and equine care.
💙 Learn more about our herd or give a gift to support them today!