Hold Me Tight  with Horses

We will start by delving into the science of love, sparking your curiosity about your own emotions and patterns, as well as those of your partner. This will be the most lecture-heavy part of the weekend, but it's crucial for laying the groundwork for our activities. Additionally, since we plan to incorporate horses into the session (weather permitting), we'll go over basic horse safety. A light dinner is provided.

If there is one thing I have learned from horses and practicing psychotherapy, it is that it will take the time it takes.  Often we have to go slow to go fast. So, while we will ATTEMPT to get through Conversation 1; Demon Dialogues, and Conversation 2; Raw Spots from the Hold Me Tight curriculum, we will adjust the agenda as necessary.  As we begin to talk about how romantic partners tend to move together when things get rough, you will have an opportunity to rumble with the material as a group (participation is invited but not required), you will get to practice a new conversation with your partner, supported as needed by a psychotherapist, and you will get to interact with the horses to further enhance your experience and understanding.

**Lunch and snacks will be provided

We will continue from where we left off on Saturday.  There will be space for reflection and discussion about the previous days, and we will continue with Conversation 3; Revisiting a Rocky Moment and Conversation 4; Hold Me Tight.  If there is time, we will do Conversation 5; Forgiving Injuries.  Whatever we do not complete in the weekend, you will be offered materials and the outline of the conversations.  Every attempt will be made to at minimum give a brief overview of each conversation.  As with previous days, there will be topics and concepts introduced, time for discussion, play and practice, horse demonstrations, and interactions with horses. Lunch is provided.

For some of you, this will be sufficient. Others might choose to engage in couple's therapy either here at the farm, or I can provide referrals.  Intensive day long or weekend long sessions (privately for couples) are also an option both here at Matatoa as well as at other offices around the province.  Please contact me for more information.

​

• this is a psychoeducational group facilitated by a Registered Psychotherapist.  It MAY be covered by your insurance plan-please verify with your benefits plan to avoid surprises

• This group will be held predominantly outside, weather permitting.  If forced indoors, we will be inside a barn.  Please dress appropriately for the weather. 

• If you are allergic to horses, hay, dogs, or cats, this may not be the group for you.

• No prior experience with horses is necessary-all activities take place on the ground, no riding is involved.

• This is a structured, supportive environment where participation is always voluntary. You’ll have guided discussions, one-on-one time with your partner, and a chance to explore powerful relationship concepts—at your own pace.

• Click here to register

• Payment is required either at the time of registration or at least three weeks before the event. An invoice will be provided, and prompt payment is appreciated. If needed, we can issue a receipt for your payment. However, receipts for insurance purposes will only be available after you attend the group.

• If you cancel with more than one week’s notice, you will receive a refund minus a $100 deposit.
  Cancellations made with less than one week’s notice are non-refundable.