Now Offering:
Equine-Assisted Coaching Near Reno/Tahoe
Team Building - Leadership Retreats - Personal Development - Creative Workshops
We’re all about
Lead-HERD-ship Development
We support individuals and teams in achieving excellence in work and life through experiential learning and practical activities guided by nature and animals. Together, we are nurturing a new breed of more connected, empathetic, creative, and grounded leaders— who understand the value of listening over speaking. Our equine coaches are here to help your team discover your herd mindset.
What is Equine-Assisted Coaching?
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Focused on Development; Not Horsemanship
Discover a deeper connection with your true self through the profound wisdom of horses. Guided by their herd dynamics and inquisitive nature, we gain invaluable insights into how we lead, reminding us to stay grounded in the here and now, unburdened by future concerns. Unlike conventional horse programs, equine-assisted coaching places personal growth above riding or horsemanship, ensuring that this approach is open and accessible to everyone.
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Horses as Co-Coach; Not a Tool
In horse-assisted education, these perceptive animals tune in to our nonverbal cues and how we interact physically, offering deep insights into our own awareness. It's amazing how being around them helps us become more aware of our body language and emotions, fostering mindfulness and a stronger bond with the natural world. This experience not only improves how we express ourselves digitally and physically but also shows how horses can truly unlock our potential.
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The Perfect Mirror for Reflection and Growth
Horses serve as mirrors, reflecting our behavior, energy, and emotions, aiding in the navigation of personal and professional challenges. Through their innate instincts, horses provide valuable insights and feedback that facilitate profound and rapid growth. This unique approach to coaching cultivates clarity, confidence, and leadership skills within a supportive and creative environment, offering respite from daily pressures and conventional therapeutic settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Not at all.
Most people I work with have little to no experience with horses.
Everything we do is guided, on the ground, and at your pace. You don’t need to know how to “do” anything. You just need to show up as you are.
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No.
All sessions are ground-based. The work happens through observation, presence, and interaction—not riding.
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That’s completely okay.
We move slowly, and nothing is forced. In many ways, that awareness becomes part of the work—learning how to notice what you’re feeling and stay connected to yourself within it.
You’re always in choice.
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You don’t need to have it all figured out.
Some people come with a clear question. Others come with a feeling they can’t quite name.
We start with where you are, and the process unfolds from there.
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This work is experiential.
Instead of staying in conversation alone, we include the body, the environment, and the presence of the horse. That allows you to see and feel patterns in real time—not just think about them.
It often brings a different kind of clarity—one that feels more immediate and grounded.
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This work supports you through a wide range of experiences, including:
life transitions and identity shifts
grief and loss
decision-making and clarity
leadership and communication
feeling stuck or out of alignment
reconnecting with yourself
If you’re in a space of change, uncertainty, or growth, this work can meet you there.
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We begin with a conversation.
From there, we move into the space with the horses for a guided experience. You might observe, interact, or engage in a simple exercise.
Afterward, we reflect together—connecting what you experienced back to your life.
Each session is shaped by you, so no two are exactly the same.
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Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes.
You’ll be outdoors, so layers are helpful depending on the season.
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Sessions take place in Washoe Valley, Nevada, in partnership with Equus Insight.
You’ll be in a natural, outdoor setting with space to slow down and step away from your day-to-day environment.
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Yes.
If you prefer a virtual or non-equine setting, I offer private coaching sessions that follow the same grounded, reflective approach.
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You don’t need to be certain.
If you feel a pull toward slowing down, reconnecting, or understanding yourself more deeply—that’s enough to start.
Sessions are book individually or as a package.
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Start with a conversation.
We’ll talk about what you’re navigating, what you’re looking for, and whether this feels like the right fit.
→ Schedule a complimentary intro call
“My experience working with Hest Creative at Equus Insight was both healing and deeply fulfilling. The space itself, along with the animals and facilitators, offered a grounded, nurturing environment that encouraged me to explore parts of myself I hadn’t fully acknowledged. With their open-hearted presence and thoughtful guidance, I felt supported in identifying and working through the blocks that were holding me back from reaching my personal and professional goals. I found the horses held so much wisdom and intuitive awareness that aided in the transformative experience. I’m incredibly grateful for their time, insight, and the transformative energy they bring to this work. I feel anyone wanting to get more in touch with themselves, work through inner blocks, or simply explore their internal landscape would benefit from this work!”
— Natalie, Therapist in Reno/Tahoe
Attend an Upcoming Equine-Assisted Event
We offer monthly animal-assisted coaching demos, called “Self-Care with Horses,” at Equus Insight, which provide an excellent opportunity to sample and explore this form of personal development at an accessible price. All are welcome!
"The equine-assisted coaching retreat was transformative. As an ICF-certified coach, I gained valuable insights and methodologies that have enhanced my practice. Hannah and her team expertly facilitated meaningful growth experiences, providing practical strategies that will benefit both my practice and clients. I highly recommend this valuable program."
Jessica Hartwig, ACC Results Life Coach and Founder LIV IN VISION Reno, NV
Who can benefit from equine-assisted coaching?
Equine coaching benefits anyone ready to embrace change, overcome feeling stuck, or break free from recurring patterns or behaviors. This approach is inclusive and performed out of the saddle, making it accessible to everyone seeking personal growth and transformation.
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We provide customizable leadership and team-building retreats for corporate groups, nonprofits, volunteer teams, and youth organizations. Each program is designed to enhance collaboration, teamwork, confidence, social skills, communication, and more. Our facilitators will guide your group through a series of hands-on activities aimed at identifying and addressing areas of conflict or tension, facilitating real-time learning and development.
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Equine-assisted coaching offers leaders a unique experiential learning opportunity. By interacting with horses, leaders refine their nonverbal communication skills and deepen their emotional intelligence, becoming more aware of their own emotions and behaviors and how these actions effect their teams. This process fosters authenticity by aligning leaders' values and behaviors. Working with horses also enhances decision-making under pressure, promotes trust-building and collaboration, and provides stress management benefits, ultimately equipping leaders with valuable insights and skills to inspire and empower their teams effectively. We are all leaders in our lives and everyone can benefit from improving their leadership skills.
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Entrepreneurs can benefit immensely from equine-guided coaching due to its unique experiential nature. Interacting with horses helps participants to develop keen insights into their leadership style and communication effectiveness, as horses respond authentically to nonverbal cues and emotional states. This experience enhances entrepreneurs' emotional intelligence, equipping them to navigate challenges with greater clarity and resilience while aligning their actions with core values. By fostering trust-building skills and promoting effective collaboration, equine-assisted coaching also prepares entrepreneurs to cultivate strong relationships. Moreover, the serene outdoor setting of these sessions offers space for self-reflection, skills to set boundaries, manage self-talk, and recharge creatively. These tools are essential for long-term success and maintaining mental well-being.
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Women can greatly benefit from equine-assisted coaching due to its holistic and empowering approach. This experience cultivates emotional awareness and resilience, empowering women to navigate personal and professional challenges with increased confidence and clarity. Equine-assisted learning also fosters assertiveness and leadership skills within a supportive environment, allowing women to hone their strengths and assert their presence effectively. Moreover, the serene, natural setting of these sessions provides women with a therapeutic space for introspection, stress relief, and personal growth. Overall, equine-assisted coaching empowers participants to enhance their self-awareness, leadership capabilities, and overall well-being, making it a valuable asset for anyone seeking to enrich their skill set.
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Are you looking for a fun date or interested in developing real communication skills with your partner? Equine-assisted coaching can help enhance your relationship by improving collaboration and fostering deeper connections and conversations. While we do not provide therapy, we can support couples seeking to strengthen their relationship.
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Everyone can benefit from our coaching herd. If you are open to new experiences, interested in deepening your connection to nature and animals, or simply looking for a creative spark, equine-assisted coaching can be powerful medicine. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds to participate in our programs, and we strive to make horses accessible to those in need, including individuals with physical limitations. We are always happy to offer site visits if you would like to learn more.
“If you are fearful, a horse will back off. If you are calm and confident, it will come forward. For those who are often flattered or feared, the horse can be a welcome mirror of the best in human nature.”
Years in the Making.
As a young girl, horses captured my heart. From pony rides and vaulting camps to weekly riding lessons, I discovered joy, independence, and confidence in the saddle. Early jobs included working for trainers, clerking at a tack store, grooming for my college equestrian center director, and guiding trail rides in Yosemite National Park. Riding and competing with my Appendix Quarter Horse, Spectacle, taught me patience, grit, perseverance, and compassion.
Throughout career shifts and life's ups and downs, horses have remained steadfast companions, serving as my coaches, therapists, and loyal friends. I am thrilled to merge my passion for horses with professional coaching to offer clients an unforgettable experience. Equine-assisted coaching is more than a career; it's my calling, and I can't wait to share its transformative power with you!
Qualifications
Over 30 years of equine experience
ICF-Certified Professional and Executive Coach and Member
HorseDream Certified Equine Assisted Educator
EAHAE International Association for Horse-Assisted Education Member
PATH International Member
Hest Creative has partnered with Equus Insight to bring equine-assisted coaching to Reno/Carson City.
If you would like to learn more, please join our email list or contact us. We are currently planning retreats and collaborative events and offering private and group coaching sessions. Equine-assisted learning is a valuable complement to traditional coaching, therapy, professional development, team leadership, and identity work. We are happy to design a coaching experience that aligns with your goals and the needs of your group.