Healing Through Connection
Experience the transformative power of equestrian-assisted therapy in a serene, natural environment where horses become partners in your journey to emotional wellness.
Begin Your JourneyAbout Equestrian Therapy at DWC Counselling
At DWC Relational Counselling, we believe in the profound healing power of the human-animal bond. Our equestrian therapy program combines traditional counselling techniques with the unique therapeutic benefits of working with horses.
Horses are naturally intuitive animals that respond to human emotions and energy. They provide immediate, honest feedback that can help individuals develop greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal skills in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.
🐴 Ground-Based Activities
Most of our equestrian therapy sessions involve ground-based interactions with horses, including grooming, leading, and caring activities that build trust and confidence.
🌿 Natural Healing Environment
Our therapy takes place in peaceful outdoor settings that promote relaxation, mindfulness, and connection with nature.
👥 Individual & Group Sessions
We offer both one-on-one and group equestrian therapy sessions tailored to meet diverse therapeutic goals and comfort levels.
Meet Molly - Shire
Central to our equestrian therapy program is Molly, our magnificent Shire horse who embodies the very essence of gentle strength. Standing tall as a true gentle giant, Molly possesses that rare combination of impressive stature and extraordinary sensitivity that makes her uniquely gifted in therapeutic work.
Despite her imposing size, Molly has an incredible ability to sense what each person needs. Whether it's the meditative rhythm of grooming her glossy coat, the grounding experience of walking her on a lead rope through our peaceful grounds, or those magical moments when she chooses to rest her massive head in your lap as you sit together in the field - Molly has an uncanny way of unlocking feelings that have long been buried.
Many of our clients describe their time with Molly as transformative. There's something profoundly healing about earning the trust of such a powerful yet gentle creature, and the non-verbal communication that flows between human and horse often speaks louder than words ever could.
Our Therapy Horse Family
Each of our horses brings unique qualities to our therapeutic program. From gentle giants to spirited companions, every horse has been carefully chosen for their temperament and therapeutic potential.
Molly
Central to our equestrian therapy program is Molly, our magnificent Shire horse who embodies the very essence of gentle strength. Standing tall as a true…
Loki
Don’t let the size fool you – our mini cob brings enormous heart to every session. Perfect for those who may feel intimidated by larger…
Moon
With characteristic Welsh intelligence and sensitivity, this horse excels at reading emotions and responding with exactly the right energy. Ideal for building communication skills and…
Our Equestrian Therapy Services
We offer specialized therapeutic programs tailored to various needs, from anxiety and trauma recovery to relationship building and personal growth.
Anxiety & Depression
- Emotional regulation through horse interaction
- Mindfulness and grounding techniques
- Building confidence and self-esteem
- Developing coping strategies
Trauma Recovery
- Safe, non-verbal processing opportunities
- Rebuilding trust and safety
- Somatic healing approaches
- Gradual exposure therapy
Relationship Issues
- Improving communication skills
- Building empathy and emotional awareness
- Couples therapy with horses
- Family bonding activities
Young People & Teens
- Building self-confidence and leadership
- Managing behavioral challenges
- Social skills development
- Academic and social anxiety support
Autism Spectrum Support
- Sensory integration through horse interaction
- Non-verbal communication development
- Routine and structure in natural settings
- Social skills practice
Addiction Recovery
- Building healthy relationships and trust
- Emotional regulation without substances
- Developing accountability and responsibility
- Finding purpose and connection
What Our Clients Say
Working with Molly changed everything for me. I'd been struggling with anxiety for years, and traditional therapy helped, but there was something about earning Molly's trust that unlocked feelings I didn't even know I had buried. The moment she first rested her head against me, I felt a peace I hadn't experienced in decades.
As a father, I was skeptical about equestrian therapy for my teenage son. But watching him connect with the mini cob was incredible. He went from being withdrawn and angry to learning patience and communication skills. The horses don't judge - they just respond honestly to how you're feeling.
Doug's approach combines professional counselling expertise with the unique healing power of horses. The Welsh horse seemed to sense exactly when I needed comfort versus when I needed to be challenged. It's hard to explain, but the breakthrough moments happen naturally in the field.
I came to DWC after a traumatic experience left me unable to trust anyone. Traditional therapy felt too clinical, too removed. But sitting in the field with Molly, feeling her massive presence but gentle spirit, I slowly learned that strength and gentleness can coexist. That realization changed how I saw myself and others. Molly didn't just help me heal - she taught me what true strength looks like.
Meet Our Team
Our qualified therapists combine traditional counselling expertise with specialized training in equestrian-assisted therapy.
Start Your Healing Journey
Ready to experience the transformative power of equestrian therapy? Contact us to schedule your initial consultation.
📍 Location
Galway, Ireland
⏰ Hours
Flexible scheduling available