Oakview Equestrian Outreach

Our Approach

We utilize a holistic approach that incorporates values of Humility, Openness, Respect, Self-Reliance, and Excellence. These values guide our interactions and the therapeutic processes we employ:

• Humility: We recognize the importance of understanding and respecting each client's unique journey. Our staff and trainers approach each session with an open, inquisitive mind to understand our clients’ objectives and put plans in place to help them progress toward achieving those goals.
• Openness: We foster an environment of openness, encouraging clients to express their perspectives, observations, feelings and experiences freely. This openness helps build trust and facilitates healing.
• Respect: Respect is a cornerstone of our interaction. We honor the dignity of each client and ensure that their experiences and emotions are recognized.
• Self-Reliance: Through equestrian activities, we aim to empower clients to develop self-reliance. The skills and confidence gained through these activities can be applied to other areas of their lives.
• Excellence: We strive for excellence in all aspects of our business and interaction with all we meet. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care and support to our clients.

Benefits of Equestrian Therapeutic Activities

• Improved emotional regulation and stress management
• Enhanced self-esteem and confidence
• Development of trust and communication skills
• Physical benefits such as improved balance and coordination

Our Programs

We offer a variety of programs tailored to meet the needs of our clients. Our standard programs include:

1. Horse Interaction Basics
2. Riding Basics
3. Equine Management

In addition to these, we offer customized adaptations based on client-specific goals and objectives. Our program approach includes individual training sessions, customized equestrian education, group activities, day clinics and specialized workshops. Each program is designed to provide a supportive and nurturing environment where clients can thrive.

Our Staff

Our team is comprised of experienced professionals who are passionate about horses, training, and helping clients meet their goals and objectives:

• Nikki Hayes: Has been around horses her whole life. They have been a solace, an anchor, a joy in her darkest times. Over many years, in addition to building a high level of personal riding and coaching skill, she has competed in rodeo events at a high level. She has been a knowledgeable horse and rider trainer, a rodeo coach, and a private instructor in western riding. She is passionate about riding horses and helping people. A mother of two boys, several dogs, a husband and multiple horses, she has extensive experience in working with horses and training clients in equestrian activities. Nikki is an exceptional coach whose dedication to helping clients achieve their goals is evident in her approach.
• Carol Anderson: Has a Bachelors degree in Therapeutic Recreation. She has always been interested in utilizing horses to help people. She has extensive volunteer experience in various equestrian therapy facilities both in the United States and England. She has a background in equine-assisted services including therapeutic riding and equine-assisted learning. Carol has experience with the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), a UK-based charity providing therapeutic horse riding, equestrian vaulting, and carriage driving lessons to people with physical and developmental disabilities, as well as those with mental health needs. She spent many years as a leader in the Boy Scouts of America while her 5 sons achieved the honor of Eagle Scout and is active in her church working as a Youth Leader.
• Todd Anderson: Has served as a Scoutmaster for over a decade in the Boy Scouts of America, and is an experienced international business leader and trainer. Todd has a passion for training and supporting others to build confidence as they develop skill and capability.

Our Horses

• Springmeadow Thunder (THUNDER)
  • 6 years old
  • Friesian – Quarterhorse mix
  • 15 hands high
  • Brother to THOR
  • Enjoys trail riding, responds well to leg queues, pleasant disposition, somewhat mischievous
• Springmeadow Thor (THOR)
  • 5 years old
  • Friesian – Quarterhorse mix
  • 15.2 hands high
  • Brother to THUNDER
  • Enjoys trail riding, intelligent, trained in carriage driving, easy-going, fast walking gait
• Steelie Trix (STEELIE)
  • 1 year old
  • Blue Roan
  • Inquisitive
• Catalina Minx (SNIPPET)
  • 1 year old
  • Dominant
• Bacardi (BACARDI)
  • 1 year old
  • Personable
• Ace (ACE)
  • 10 years old
  • Black Quarter Horse
  • Nice size for most
  • Chill yet forward moving
  • Can do payday events and drill
• Gypsy (GYPSY)
  • 24 years young
  • Small, sweet bay mare – 14 hands
  • Has had a rough go but is ready to join the program
  • Willing to step out
• Forest (FOREST)
  • 11 years old
  • Performance barrel racer, consistent in 2/3 D
  • Big guy, bay
  • Gentle and not reactive
• Scooter (SCOOTER)
  • 10 years old
  • Dun (light brown) Quarter Horse
  • 15 hands
  • Roping
  • Gentle and calm, fun guy

Gallery

Join Us

We invite you to join us in our mission to harness the healing power of therapeutic equestrian interaction. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Contact: 903-240-2068