Our Approach
At GTS, we use hands-on, experiential learning to help participants build confidence, communication skills, emotional awareness, and responsibility. Lessons combine visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning through guided practice, teamwork, and problem-solving activities.
Participants learn the fundamentals of horsemanship through riding, grooming, horse care, tack and mounting, equine anatomy, and understanding horse behavior. Safety and respect for both horses and riders remain at the center of every lesson, creating a supportive environment where participants can learn, grow, and build trust.
Horsemanship & Safety
The GTS curriculum is designed to encourage positive decision making, healthy communication, self-worth, and emotional growth. Therapeutic activities such as journaling and art therapy, led by a Masters-level educator, provide participants with meaningful opportunities for self-expression, reflection, and personal development. Diversity, understanding, and acceptance are also important values woven throughout the program experience.
Supporting Emotional Growth
Every participant receives personalized support throughout their time at GTS. Staff members work closely with each individual to set goals, monitor progress, celebrate achievements, and help participants build confidence at their own pace.
Individualized Learning
GTS incorporates internationally recognized therapeutic horsemanship principles from EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) and PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship). These evidence-based approaches help guide our curriculum and strengthen the quality of support provided to participants.
Professional Standards
In addition to farm and riding activities, participants engage in experiences that support and uplift the local community. GTS has partnered with senior citizen groups to share the joy of horses and farm life, helping participants build meaningful connections while developing empathy, responsibility, and social awareness.
Community Connection
At GTS, we are committed to continually evaluating and strengthening the impact of our program. Through participant interviews, demonstration projects, follow-up questionnaires, and assessment tools such as the DERS, we monitor growth in emotional regulation, self-esteem, communication skills, and personal confidence.
Measuring Impact
Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA)
EAGALA is an innovative mental health treatment model incorporating horses who are highly attuned and offer an environment for clients to discover their answers within themselves. Using a collaborative approach, the EAGALA model incorporates a licensed Mental Health Professional and a qualified Equine Specialist working together with horses and clients as equal partners in an experiential process that empowers life-changing outcomes.