ABOUT
In Step With Horses is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation in Chesterland, Ohio. We are driven by a single goal – to provide a safe place to rebalance mental health through a connection with animals and nature
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 provide a safe place to rebalance mental health through a connection with animals and nature.
Vision
A core connection to a healthier, kinder, and more accepting community.
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
Melissa Hauserman Executive Director & Immediate Past President
Elizabeth Lally Treasurer
Ami Patel Secretary
Jeff Linton
Teresa Rogers
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.
