About Us
We are passionate in our mission to enhance quality of life through equestrian activities.
At Oakview, we are deeply committed to the transformative power of therapeutic interaction with horses. Our passion lies in benefiting clients by teaching, educating, and training them in equestrian activities. We offer training, riding lessons, courses and experience in riding, horse care and management and many other equestrian activities. These are open to all skill and experience levels. We believe these activities can significantly aid clients who are experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and emotional trauma along with the caretakers and family members who support them.
Our Approach
- 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:
- Horse Interaction Basics
- Riding Basics
- 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
- Nikki Hayes: A lifelong horsewoman with high-level rodeo competition experience. Nikki is an accomplished coach and private western riding instructor. A mother of two, she is passionate about riding horses and helping people achieve their goals.
- Carol Anderson: Holds a Bachelor's degree in therapeutic recreation and has extensive volunteer experience in equestrian therapy facilities in the U.S. and England. Certified through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH) and experienced with the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA). Active community and youth leader.
- Todd Anderson: Longtime Scoutmaster and experienced international business leader and trainer. Passionate about helping others build confidence through skill development.
Our Horses
- Springmeadow Thunder (THUNDER): 6-year-old Friesian Cross, 15 hands high, enjoys trail riding, responds well to leg cues, pleasant and mischievous, can pull a carriage.
- Springmeadow Thad (THOR): 5-year-old Friesian Cross, 15.2 hands high, 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 Bay, dominant.
- Bacardi (BACARDI): 1-year-old Chestnut, personable.
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