Hope Meadows to offer free mental health program for youth

Hope Meadows, a 40-acre property and private barn located in Wadsworth, Ohio, will offer a new 10-week mental health program for youth – Reining In Anxiety – starting in August.

The structured behavioral skills program, which runs through November, will combine equine-facilitated psychotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy for youth with anxiety. Anticipated outcomes include a reduction in anxiety symptoms; improved emotion regulation and greater emotional self-efficacy; and a genuine connection with horses.

Licensed counselors working alongside equine specialists and horses will guide participants through the course. No horseback riding is involved and all parts of the program take place on the ground through hands-on activities designed to encourage connection, teamwork and personal growth. No prior experience working with horses is required.

The program is open to 40 individuals who will take part in four group sessions of up to 12 participants each. Participants must be residents of or attend school in Cuyahoga County. The program is fully funded and there is no cost to families to participate

All sessions are held at Hope Meadows at 4820 Ridge Rd. in Wadsworth.

For more information, call 216-232-3656, ext. 1.