You Served.
You Don't Have to Carry This Alone.
Confidential programs for veterans, active military, first responders, and their families using the proven healing power of horses.
Recognize some of these feelings
Trouble sleeping or staying asleep.
A short fuse that wasn't there before.
Feeling numb or disconnected from the people you love.
Difficulty concentrating.
Always feeling on edge, like something is about to go wrong.
Pulling away from friends, family, or activities you used to enjoy.
Replaying events you wish you could forget.
Feeling like no one around you could possibly understand.
You are not alone. And you don't have to keep pushing through on your own.
Guiding Reins offers equine-assisted wellness programs specifically designed for people who have given everything in service to others. Our programs are held in a calm, outdoor setting with no clinical environment, no judgement, and no cost to you as a participant.
Your Privacy Comes First
We know that one of the biggest concerns for veterans and first responders is what happens to their information. Here is exactly what you need to know:
Nothing you share at Guiding Reins goes on your medical record. Nothing is reported to your employer, your commanding officer, or the VA. We are not affiliated with any healthcare provider, the VA, or any insurance company. Your participation and everything discussed in our sessions stays with us, period. No information is ever shared without your explicit consent.
Our Services
No Riding.
No Experience Needed.
Our programs are entirely ground-based. You will work alongside horses in activities designed to build awareness, trust, and connection. You do not need any horse experience to participate.
Small Groups.
Real Support.
Group sessions can include up to six participants. You are never required to share your story or anything you are not ready to share. There is no pressure. You move at your own pace.
A Calm, Outdoor Setting.
Sessions are held at partner farms in Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina. There is no waiting room, no clipboard, and no clinical setting. Just you, us and some remarkably intuitive horses.
At No Cost to You.
Our programs are provided at no cost to veterans, active military, first responders, and their qualifying family members. This is made possible entirely through donations and grants.
How It Works
Each session begins with a brief check-in. From there, participants move into ground activities with the horses. The session closes with personal written reflection. Nothing is forced. Nothing is required beyond showing up.
Programs range from one-on-one sessions, 12-weeks of small group sessions, 3-day intensives, single-day workshops and half-day retreats . If your work schedule is a challenge, we can provide a letter for your employer that outlines the program and the value of consistent participation.
“I can't express how much we appreciate you all and how beneficial your program has been to my team. The atmosphere in our office has seen a drastic change and I owe a lot of that to your program's efforts. Thank you!!”
— Haley Suskauer, MPH | Polk County Health and Wellness Coalition
Taking the First Step
Taking the first step is often the hardest part.
All we ask is that you fill out a simple inquiry form and someone from our team will reach out to you directly.
No commitment. No pressure. Just a conversation.