A judgment-free space for youth and families
Horses can help build trust and enable open, healing conversations for youth in individual and family counseling settings. Our CHAPS equine-assisted therapy engages youth with horses to overcome emotional issues and trauma. Equine therapy is available at our Shiocton, Milwaukee, New London, and Fond du Lac counseling centers.
Equine-assisted therapy in Wisconsin
Youth partner with horses to learn about themselves through experiential therapy. The skills and work ethic they learn—and the self-confidence they build—can help in their studies, jobs, and everyday relationships.
Skills that extend far beyond the barn
Our Behavioral Job Training Program gives young men in our residential care program an opportunity to learn about animal care and build a strong work ethic through daily chores. This ongoing work experience and interaction with the horses builds self-esteem, self-control, and feelings of connection and trust.
A champion of mental health
Rawhide is proud to remember Ann Gerrits, a true champion for mental wellness in our community. Her dedication was inspiring, particularly through the CHAPS program she founded, which ensured that each person received a compassionate journey toward healing. Ann’s memory continues to inspire us, and her legacy lives on in the name of our equine program that bears her name—CHAPS Equine-Assisted Therapy Program. We remain forever grateful for Ann’s dedication, and we are committed to carrying her passion forward in the important work we do.