A new program on Nova Scotia's South Shore is using horses to help people in addiction recovery.
The program, hosted by Hinchinbrook Farm in Blockhouse, offers equine-assisted therapy. Organizers say the farm setting provides participants with freedom and peace.
Suzy Wells, acting vice-president for the Society for Equine-Assisted Services Nova Scotia, says horses helped her own recovery. She moved to Nova Scotia five years ago and started the program to help others.
“For me, it was the non-judgmental interaction with the horse and being able to just be able to be myself,” Wells said.
Patricia McGill, the farm's owner, says horses require participants to be fully present in the moment.
Starting this September, the program will run two six-week sessions. It is funded by the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia and free for participants. A registered counselling therapist will lead the sessions, focusing on self-awareness and emotional regulation.