 When you're little, goodbyes can feel like the end of the world. For 7-year-old Kim*, saying goodbye to her beloved equine partner Bob—even just for a little while—was incredibly hard.
Bob, one of the tiniest and oldest members of our herd, had been Kim’s partner in her Equine-Partnered Play Therapy sessions for several months. With his gentle eyes and patient presence, Bob helped Kim feel safe enough to talk about some very big feelings—like sadness, worry, and not always knowing where she belongs. For a child working through trauma, that kind of connection is priceless. So when Bob needed to take time off to recover from an illness, Kim was heartbroken. Her safe place suddenly felt uncertain. And that’s where Gypsy came in. Gypsy joined our herd a few weeks after Bob left—a kind, steady mare still finding her own rhythm in our program. She wasn’t Bob, and Kim noticed that right away. “She’s so different,” Kim said during their first meeting, arms crossed. “She doesn’t know me.” But Gypsy, in her quiet way, just stood beside her. She didn’t try to be Bob. She didn’t ask anything of Kim. She was just there—calm, present, and waiting. Over the next few sessions, Kim began brushing Gypsy’s long mane and stroking her silvery coat. She started talking again, this time about how scary it felt when someone you love gets sick. About missing people. About being mad and sad at the same time. And how hard it is to trust that things will be okay. Gypsy listened with her body—ears tuned in, breath slow and steady, never rushing Kim. And Kim began to heal, a little more each time. When Bob returned, fully recovered, Kim was overjoyed. But something had changed: she didn’t need to choose between them. Now she had two horse friends who had helped her in different ways. “Bob helped my heart feel safe,” she said one day. “And Gypsy helped it stay strong.” At STEPS With Horses, every equine brings something special to the healing process. Gypsy may have joined us as a “new kid,” but for Kim, she became a steady source of comfort during an uncertain time. Together, they reminded us all that healing doesn’t mean never saying goodbye—it means knowing you’ll be okay even when you do. *Name and details changed to protect client identity and privacy. Want to help support healing stories like Kim’s? Join Gypsy’s Carrot Club and sponsor her care as she continues to make a difference, one heart at a time. 🥕💚
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 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.  Bob: You do have a... commanding presence. What about when we do community events? Gypsy: Oh, those are my favorite. I love meeting new people—kids, adults, anyone who wants to say hi. I light up on outreach days. I'm extroverted, social, and always on the lookout for a new friend (or treat). Bob: Well, Gypsy, you’re one of a kind. Anything else you want folks to know? Gypsy: I may have started out small and sick, but now I’m full of life and ready to help others heal—one brush stroke, spin, or cuddle at a time. And if you’ve got a brush? We’re besties already. Bob: You heard her! If you love what Gypsy’s doing, you can support her by joining her Carrot Club and help fund her therapy work with kids, teens, and veterans. Join Gypsy's Carrot Club Gypsy: Or come work with me yourself! I’d love to be part of your healing journey. Start here to begin counseling |
AuthorSTEPS With Horses Archives
December 2025
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