ABOUT
In Step With Horses is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation in Chesterland, Ohio. We are driven by a single goal – to help individuals and families restore mental and emotional balance through evidence-based,
equine-assisted experiences in a safe and supportive nature-based environment.
We are a trauma-informed mental health service.
We connect our clients to licensed mental health professionals and/or experienced equine professionals and trained therapy animals to improve their emotional wellbeing. Experiential therapies often break down emotional barriers faster and with longer-lasting effect than traditional talk therapy
Mission
To help individuals and families restore mental and emotional balance through evidence-based,
equine-assisted experiences in a safe and supportive nature-based environment..
Vision
A world where equine-assisted services transform mental health care and empower people to heal, grow, and thrive
in compassionate communities.
Values
Key principles:
Connection
Respect
Compassion
Trust
Partnership with Horses
Building Connections through Trust, Respect, and Compassion
Board of Directors
Phillip Caris President
Jessica Jacobsen Vice President
Ross Sinclair Treasurer
Ami Patel Secretary
Jeff Linton
Vinod Zachariah
Cathy Zanella
Justin Donaldson
Lori Sokolsky
Board Committee Chairs
Susan Benedejic
Carol Gifford
What Our Clients Say
Whether a client has years of experience working with horses or it is their first time stepping foot in a barn, the warm and welcoming nature of our horses allows them to feel comfortable and at home. For many clients, working with a horse in a session is the first time that they have worked closely with these majestic animals, and it can be life-changing! Horses make excellent therapy partners.
This was one of the best experiences I had in recovery. I learned how to control breathing and body language to help the horses feel at ease and listen – using those techniques and applying it to everyday life was very helpful.
A fresh approach to equine partnership regardless of age. Melissa is a fantastic instructor and very cognizant of a students goals and aspirations, while keeping us grounded and in a safe space with the horse.
In Step With Horses put me in step with my own self-discovery. The specialists and therapists have truly been there to guide me. I will forever be grateful that they came into my Life.
An amazing group of people with talent, compassion and horse sense…maybe a little, dog, chicken and goat sense too! The grounds are country farm and very calming. A great place to heal, obtain peace and regain confidence. Highly recommend.
