Question 1

What are equine-assisted services?

Accepted Answer

Equine-assisted services use intentional, ground-based interaction with horses to support emotional regulation, confidence, and social skills. Horses are highly sensitive to body language and emotions, which helps kids learn awareness, boundaries, and calm in a natural, engaging way.

Question 2

Will my child be riding a horse?

Accepted Answer

No. We don't ride and no horse experience is required. This program focuses on connection, regulation, and confidence in a safe and supportive setting. All activities happen on the ground and focus on bonding, observation, and quiet connection.

Question 3

Who is leading this program?

Accepted Answer

Facilitated by licensed family therapists with two 8th grade peer leaders. See below to meet the facilitators, Alane Freund, LMFT (#36077) and Sara Moss, AMFT (#141374).  Our peer leaders are Audrey Mazzuca from Alameda and Lola Pritchard from Mill Valley. (Sara Moss is supervised by Yvonne Beyer)

Question 4

Do I have to talk in the group if I don’t want to?

Accepted Answer

Nope. Even if you don’t talk, you and the horses will understand each other. With everyone working together, we will become a herd, and soon everyone will be comfortable talking whether horse or human.

Question 5

How long is the group?

Accepted Answer

We will meet for 75-90 minutes for three Sundays, March 15-29th.

Question 6

How do I register?

Accepted Answer

Send us an email of interest and schedule a phone call (usually the parent calls, but students are welcome to call as well) to find out more. The way you register is by purchasing a ticket here on Eventbrite or mailing a check in advance. A phone call from a parent with is required to join.

Question 7

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Tuition is by donation. The cost of the group is $225 for the series. We have scholarships for 25%, 50%, or 75% off to accommodate families experiencing financial hardship. Email heartmindequine@gmail.com to request a scholarship code for registration.

Question 8

How is this a fundraiser?

Accepted Answer

Heart and Mind Equine, the sponsor of Hanging with Horses, has a horse rescue and sanctuary nonprofit. The rescue horses are our equine partners in this work. Your tuition will help support the horses. We have a sustainable economy tuition structure of donation as well as scholarships as needed.

Question 9

Where does the group meet?

Accepted Answer

Our ranch is located on San Antonio Road, on the county line between Marin and Sonoma, easily accessible from 101. Address provided upon registration.

Hanging with Horses: Middle School - Novato