About Horses for Healing
Founded by Maria Chiara Apruzzese, Horses for Healing was born from a belief that the quiet, honest connection between horses and humans can unlock confidence, presence, and emotional resilience.
With over a decade of hands-on experience supporting vulnerable individuals through charity leadership roles, Maria Chiara understands the unique challenges faced by those dealing with anxiety, trauma, behavioural difficulties, and social-emotional struggles.
Certified in the innovative LEAP method and holding a Level 4 Diploma in Equine Facilitated Learning, she combines evidence-based approaches with intuitive, relationship-centred practice.
Maria Chiara's sessions are completely child-led and trauma-informed, creating safe spaces where healing happens naturally through the non-judgmental presence of horses. Sessions take place in peaceful equine yards in Cookham and Warfield, Berkshire.
Our Mission
At Horses for Healing, we believe every individual deserves the chance to feel seen, safe, and empowered, especially those navigating anxiety, trauma, or emotional challenges.
Our mission is to create a different kind of healing space, one that is child-led, relational, and grounded in the quiet presence of horses. We offer experiences that gently rebuild confidence, nurture resilience, and restore connection to self and others.
Equine-Facilitated Learning Sessions
Supporting children and young people to build confidence, emotional awareness, and resilience.
💫 What We Offer
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Gentle, grounded sessions with horses – no riding, just connection.
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1:1 or 2:1 sessions in a peaceful outdoor setting.
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Weekly sessions of 50 minutes, tailored to each young person's needs.
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We follow the emotional connection as it unfolds, whether through quiet presence, shared space, or simple, intuitive interactions like grooming or being near the herd.
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A safe, nurturing space for those who need time, calm, and emotional connection
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Sessions run term-time with options to extend, based on each child’s journey.
🌿 Our Approach
We believe horses are natural healers who offer immediate, honest feedback while providing unconditional acceptance. Our sessions focus on:
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Building self-confidence through successful interactions with horses.
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Developing emotional regulation skills in a calm, supportive environment.
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Improving communication and social skills naturally
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Processing difficult emotions without pressure or judgment.
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Reconnecting with inner strength and personal resilience.
FAQs
What actually happens in a session?
Sessions are led by the child and the horse, We follow the emotional connection as it unfolds, whether through quiet presence, shared space, or simple, intuitive interactions like grooming or being near the herd. There’s no riding — the focus is on connection and emotional safety.
Who is this for?
Children and teens (ages 6–18) who are navigating anxiety, sensory overload, trauma, ADHD, emotional regulation challenges, or difficulties engaging in traditional school or therapy settings.
Do the children ride the horses?
No — all sessions are non-ridden. The healing comes from being with the horses, not on them.
Is this a form of therapy?
It’s not clinical therapy, and we're not therapists but the experience is therapeutic. Sessions are emotionally responsive, trauma-aware, and designed to help children reconnect with themselves in a safe way.
How often are the sessions?
Sessions are offered weekly, during term time. Most children begin with a block of 6 sessions, with the option to extend depending on their needs.
How much do sessions cost?
Please get in touch directly for current pricing, availability, and any funding options.
Do you work with schools and local authorities?
Yes — I regularly work in partnership with schools, SENCOs, and professionals supporting children with SEND, EHCPs, or complex emotional needs.
Is there any evidence that this kind of work actually helps?
Yes. There is growing evidence that equine-assisted interventions can improve children’s emotional well-being, self-esteem, confidence, communication, and regulation skills. You can read more here:
– UK Study (MDPI, 2019)
– Sweden Study (PubMed, 2022)
– Review of Equine Therapy for Autistic Youth (2024)