Equine-Assisted
Learning & Support
Horses meet us with an authenticity that we rarely encounter in everyday life. They perceive us as we are and respond directly—free from judgment and expectations. This clear reflection invites people to better understand themselves, discover new perspectives, and develop inner strength.
A genuine connection
I accompany children, adolescents and young adults through challenging phases of life with equine-assisted support and guidance – from the ground, with heart, clarity, and patience. At the center is the encounter with the horse: an animal that does not judge, but responds sensitively to body language and inner attitude. This immediate feedback invites self-discovery, encourages trying new behaviors, and helps strengthen self-confidence.
Is your child withdrawing?
Is your child often sad, overwhelmed, or restless?
Does your child have difficulty expressing or regulating emotions?
Is your child often irritable, angry, or emotionally unsettled?
Does your child often get into conflicts with others?
Does your child spend most of the time in front of screens or on social media?
Here's how we work together:
All sessions take place on the ground - no horse or riding experience needed.
Each session is tailored individually and may include elements of Natural Horsemanship, groundwork, mindfulness, and playful activities.
We work within a clear and non-judgmental space, where trust can grow and development can unfold.
🐴 Why Horses Are Good for Children
Horses are sensitive mirrors: they respond instantly to body language and mood. Children learn to communicate clearly and respectfully – and experience the direct impact of their behaviour. Working with horses nurtures self-confidence, patience, and mindfulness. At the same time, horses foster social skills such as consideration, responsibility, and empathy.
👉 Anyone who wants to learn more about this fascinating connection can read the full article here.
About me
My name is Yvonne Thomas, and I am a Certified Equine-Assisted Therapist and Educator (equimotion).
The close bond with horses has fascinated me since my youth, yet it was only many years later that I discovered a new and deeper way of working with them through Natural Horsemanship.
This natural, respectful, and clear form of communication has shaped not only my relationship with horses but also my own personal journey – and it is this experience I wish to share with others.
What matters most to me is genuine connection – between human and horse, and equally between myself and my clients. I work exclusively from the ground so that relationship and mutual trust remain at the center. This approach creates space to strengthen self-confidence, improve emotional awareness, and open up new perspectives.
I am currently expanding my expertise through further training at the Martin Kreuzer Horsemanship Academy, enabling me to make my horsemanship work even more purposeful and versatile.
Toni – My Equine Partner
Toni is a gentle and attentive Tinker mare with a remarkable sensitivity for people. She responds keenly to body language and inner attitude, making her a valuable partner in equine-assisted work. Her calm, balanced nature creates a sense of safety, while her clear communication invites reflection on one’s own posture and behavior.
Together, we form a team that supports people through different phases of life – with respect, patience, and genuine connection.
What is Natural Horsemanship?
Natural Horsemanship is about communicating with horses in a way that feels natural and authentic to them - without force, but with respect and clarity. It draws inspiration from the way horses interact with one another and relies on body language, energy, and clear signals to build understanding and trust. It’s not about making the horse simply “do as it’s told.” Rather, it’s about creating a true partnership where both horse and human listen, respond, and learn from each other. The horse keeps its dignity, while the human learns to act with greater sensitivity, clarity, and awareness. This approach is closely connected to the idea of compassionate communication: Just as with horses, genuine connection between people grows when we meet each other without judgment or pressure - guided instead by respect, attentiveness, and clarity.
Growing with Horses - How Horsemanship Supports Children, Teens, and Young Adults
Horses don’t respond to appearances, grades, or social status - they respond to our behavior, body language, and inner state.
Children, teenagers, and young adults quickly realize that around horses they don’t need to “perform.” Instead, they are free to simply be themselves.
Working from the ground in this way opens up many opportunities:
Building self-confidence: Guiding a large animal with nothing but body language gives a powerful sense of capability.
Clarity in communication: Horses reflect how clear and fair we are, offering instant and honest feedback.
Horses react right away to restlessness, anger, or insecurity - teaching us to find calm and balance.
Children learn to handle their emotions with more awareness.
Horses teach us to see small setbacks as opportunities for growth.
Horses require clear, steady leadership - offering a meaningful way to practice responsibility.
Horsemanship combines the experience of being with horses, the connection to nature, and key educational aspects - in a way that is vivid, hands-on, and lasting.
Would you like to find out if my work is a good fit for you or your child?
Then let’s have an informal conversation.
I’ll take the time to answer your questions, and together we can explore what form of guidance feels right for you and/or your child.
Is riding experience required?
No. Riding experience is not required, as my work takes place entirely from the ground.
There is an important reason for this: in groundwork, the focus is on the relationship – not on riding technique.
Children, young people, and adults learn to communicate with clear body language, to recognize boundaries, to build trust, and to take responsibility.
The horse responds immediately to posture and signals, offering honest feedback that many find deeply valuable.
What matters is not prior experience with horses, but simply the willingness to engage with the horse and the exercises we do together.
What are the session fees - and are there possibilities for financial support?
A first meeting to get to know each other is important to me, so that you can take your time to get a real sense of my work and the atmosphere here at the farm.
During this appointment (approx. 60 minutes), I introduce my approach, answer your questions, and together we can see whether my way of working and your expectations are a good fit.
A fee of €30 is charged for this meeting, which will be credited towards the first regular session if you decide to continue working with me.
If you decide to continue, the following fees apply for regular sessions:
– 45 minutes: 70 €
– 60 minutes: 90 €
For families, fees can be arranged individually.
Equine-assisted guidance is generally a private service.
In certain cases, a contribution to the costs may be available through public institutions (such as youth welfare services, integration assistance, or similar organizations). Whether such support is possible is always assessed individually and must be applied for by the families themselves.
To support this process, I can provide a written description of my goals and methodology, which may be included with the application.
What clothing is recommended?
Comfortable, weatherproof clothing and sturdy footwear are ideal. Riding boots are not necessary, the important thing is a secure stand.
What happens in bad weather?
We can move under a roof or into the indoor arena. If that’s not possible, the session will simply be rescheduled.
Are equine-assisted sessions also suitable for adults and families?
Yes – equine-assisted guidance is not only for children, but also for young adults and families.
Especially for teenagers and young adults in times of transition or important decisions, working with the horse can help to gain clarity, build self-confidence, and become more aware of personal strengths.
Families also benefit from shared sessions – for example, by reconnecting with one another, strengthening relationships, and discovering new ways of communication – beyond everyday routines and words.
Location:
Hof Armada 1 65201 Wiesbaden-Frauenstein
Email:
info@reittherapie-lichtblick.de
Phone/WhatsApp:
0173-950 7746