Equine Therapy
Equine assisted learning and Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy offered.
At Smoke Tree Stables, we offer a unique equine-based therapeutic program designed to support insight, change, and healing through the powerful connection between horses and humans.
Our Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) program is facilitated by a licensed mental health professional alongside a Certified Equine Specialist. EFP is highly effective in addressing anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, and substance use recovery, offering a powerful adjunct to traditional treatment approaches. It is especially beneficial for clients navigating trauma and the challenges of early recovery.
Our Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) program, while not clinical in nature, is a highly effective adjunct to existing treatment or recovery programs. Through hands-on, experiential activities with the horses, clients explore essential life themes such as boundaries, self-esteem, relationships, communication, and mindfulness. For individuals in recovery, EAL provides a safe, supportive space to practice new coping strategies, strengthen personal insight, and build confidence — making it a wonderful complement to ongoing therapy, group work, or 12-step programs.
Each group is facilitated by a team consisting of a Certified Equine Facilitator and Equine Specialist, ensuring safety, structure, and meaningful engagement. Whether through psychotherapy or experiential learning, our programs are tailored to the unique needs of our clients and serve as an excellent addition to any treatment or personal growth program.
About ;
Stacey Johnson is the Director and Lead Facilitator of our Equine Therapy Program, bringing over a decade of hands-on experience and training in the field of equine therapy. She is the Co-Founder and Co-Trainer of the Horse Human Partnership (HHP) Certification Course and is dedicated to helping others explore the transformative bond between horses and humans. Stacey is a Certified Equine Specialist, CMt, CMS, and a Fellow of the International Board of Hypnotherapy, blending her expertise in both equine and hypnotherapy practices to create meaningful change.
Stacey Johnson Hypnotherap- https://www.staceyjohnsonhypnotherapy.com
Some of the in-patient facilities we are proud to work with;
Banyan treatment center Palm Springs- https://www.banyantreatmentcenter.com/facilities/california/palm-springs/
California Behavioral health -https://cabehavioral.com
Michaels house Palm Springs- Michaelshouse.com
Hazelden Betty Ford- Hazeldenbettyford.org
Recovery First- first responder only treatment center-. https://recoveryfirst.com/about/
What are clients are saying …
“Equine therapy has been the most profound life changing experience. So grateful that my in patient treatment facility offered this program- thank you Stacey and the team for such a wonderful growth experience, I will carry you and Arizona (the horse) with me always!”
“I wish everyone in treatment could experience this program, you changed my life!”
“ I was introduced to equine therapy for the first time in Palm Springs, at the amazing smoke tree stables. I’ve always loved animals, but taking the time to slow down, observe, and really connect with them, proved to be such an unexpectedly profound experience for me. I learned so much from the wonderful people and horses at Smoke Tree, and I carried this experience in my heart long after I left.
Learning to practice being more present in my life has been one of the most powerful and healing lessons I have ever learned. But the true magic of animals is that they somehow have a way of anchoring you right to the present moment, without even trying.
We all have our own struggles, fears, doubts, anxieties, and often traumas to work through. Believe me when I say you are not alone in that. But I also know that healing is possible with a little self awareness and willingness to get out and try something new.
Wishing each and every one of you the best this life has to offer- today and always. 💗”
