Prospective clients should call our office at 712-339-4058 or email Kori Nelson, our Executive Director, at knelson@horseshelpswi.org.   We’ll then set up an appointment with the individual, and/or the individual’s family or caregiver, to determine if the services at Horse Help SWI (HHSWI) might meet the client’s unique needs.  If HHSWI is determined to be a good fit, application paperwork must be completed—and, in many cases, signed by an authorizing physician.

The individual or family is responsible for covering the fees associated with our equine therapy; at present, HHSWI does not bill insurance. Most forms of equine therapy are not covered by insurance.  The costs of HHSWI’s services vary according to the program(s) being used: typically, $25-$50 per service provided.  We offer sessions in groundwork, adaptive horseback riding, and cart driving.  These sessions usually last 30 minutes and can be held in conjunction with more than one type.

We like to see clients on a weekly basis; usually the same day and time each week. There generally is not a set time for equine services and each clients sees benefits at their own unique pace. Goals are set forth during the interview and acceptance process.  Multiple courses can be arranged, and they are often encouraged! New skills can be learned during each session and often build on skills learned in prior sessions. We like to re-evaluate clients after each year with us.

Certain equine therapy sessions may require individual settings, but for the most part, sessions at HHSWI are held while other clients are in the same or a neighboring arena.  HHSWI may arrange group sessions for clients coming from a similar location: for example, nursing homes; schools; or daycares—or specially arranged groups coming for a particular kind of counseling. 

We do welcome family members/caregivers to watch our classes.  In some cases, these visitors may be able to assist their respective family members/care recipients as volunteer side walkers or in other capacities, since being jointly involved in these sessions can be a great benefit for all. Certain waivers need to be read and signed prior to any volunteer work at HHSWI, and required training for this type of activity would be provided. In the event that having family or friends present is deterring progress, we may request that the client is left with our competent staff and volunteers in order for them to receive the maximum benefit and family can stay in the provided waiting room or in their vehicle.

We’re always thinking of ways we can reach out and help more community residents.  As with any new facility and program, however, we’re currently limited by staff and funding.  Thankfully, though, our determination to help those in need is limitless, and the collective imagination that goes into creating meaningful new programs is strong—so suggestions regarding programs you’d like to see offered at HHSWI are always welcome. Donations to help with the process can be made here.