Business Details
27 Years
experience
Equine-Assisted Therapy & Learning Programs
Since 1999, Great Strides has dedicated itself to fostering mutually beneficial relationships between people and horses through innovative therapeutic approaches. Our team of licensed professionals and experienced equine specialists creates a supportive environment for personal growth and emotional healing. With over three decades of expertise, our founder Terry Lewis combines traditional therapy methods with equine-assisted practices to address complex mental health challenges. Our state-of-the-art facility at Mezza Luna Farm in Damascus, Maryland, provides a serene setting for outdoor sessions that incorporate both traditional and experiential therapeutic techniques. We specialize in serving adults seeking alternative healing modalities, offering personalized programs that integrate emotional intelligence development with hands-on equine interactions.Our commitment to quality care is evidenced by our PATH certification and Eponaquest training standards. Through a combination of individual sessions, group programs, and corporate training, we help clients develop essential life skills and achieve emotional balance. Our approach emphasizes safety, collaboration, and natural horsemanship principles while maintaining strict adherence to professional mental health standards. The recent relocation to our picturesque farm location has expanded our capacity to offer comprehensive services in both indoor and outdoor therapeutic settings. We maintain transparent communication channels and flexible scheduling options to accommodate diverse client needs while ensuring compliance with current health and safety guidelines.
Services
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
Equine Assisted Learning
Magic of Horses Program
Corporate Team Building
Farm Tours
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of combined equine therapy experience
- PATH-certified therapeutic riding instruction
- Outdoor sessions in natural healing environment
- Holistic approach combining mental health and horsemanship
- Complimentary facility tours available
Associations and certifications
- Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH)
- Eponaquest
Services
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
Licensed mental health professionals guide clients through structured interactions with therapy horses to address emotional challenges. This evidence-based approach helps manage depression, anxiety, and trauma through experiential learning. Sessions incorporate grooming, handling, and ground activities to develop emotional regulation skills.
Equine Assisted Learning
Educational programs teach emotional intelligence through hands-on horse interactions. Participants develop communication and leadership skills while learning about emotional agility. The Eponaquest-based curriculum focuses on authenticity and relationship-building through equine partnerships.
Magic of Horses Program
Introductory sessions teaching horse care basics and safety practices. Limited to five participants for personalized instruction in brushing, feeding, and ground handling. Designed to create positive first experiences with horses through structured, educational activities.
People
Terry Lewis
Founder & Owner
LCSW-C with 30+ years in therapy and equine-assisted practices. Former PATH Instructor of the Year and Eponaquest-certified instructor. Specializes in trauma recovery and emotional development through horse partnerships.
Questions
What mental health conditions do you treat?
We address anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges through equine-assisted therapy.
Are sessions covered by insurance?
EAP services may qualify for insurance reimbursement - check with your provider for specific coverage details.
What should I wear for sessions?
Closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities in all weather conditions.
Can I schedule group sessions?
Yes, we offer group programs for EAL focusing on team-building and corporate development.
Do you offer farm tours?
Complimentary facility tours available by appointment to experience our therapeutic environment.
What safety measures are in place?
Outdoor sessions maintain social distancing guidelines with optional mask policy for client comfort.
Videos
Reviews (1)
Vicki Coleman
Feb 03, 2016
Report
I am enjoying my riding lessons at Great Strides. I have been riding for about 13 years and lost my confidence. I love the way I am learning how the rider impacts the horse. My horse and I are getting along much better these days and my trail riding has become enjoyable once again. During the cold weather I took an unmounted lesson and learned more about seat bones and bear down. Even though I had heard and practiced these things in my lessons and personal riding, I found the lesson to be very hands on and practical. It was most helpful.