What is Equine Therapy?
EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) therapy is a ground-based, team-focused approach to mental health and personal development. It involves no horseback riding—instead, clients interact with horses in structured sessions guided by a licensed therapist and an equine specialist. The horses mirror emotions and behaviors, helping individuals work through trauma, build trust, improve communication, and gain insight in a powerful, hands-on way.
At Horses for Honors, our mission is to support individuals healing from trauma through the powerful, restorative connection between humans and horses. We create a safe, empowering space where trust, confidence, and resilience can be rebuilt—one heart at a time. Through free riding lessons, hands-on equine experiences, and mentorship, we help participants develop life skills, rediscover their strength, and—if they choose—pursue meaningful futures in the equine industry. Inspired by our founder’s journey, we believe healing is not just possible—it’s purposeful.
Horses for Honors is in memory of Chrissy's little brother Tony and close family friend, Shaun H. Hicks, who both lost their lives far too soon to the weight of trauma, PTSD, and addiction—wounds that might’ve been healed if the right help had come in time.
That grief turned into a mission. Her promise to build something lasting for others who walk through pain in silence.
Horses for Honors was born as a nonprofit tribute to those they've lost—a way to offer healing through equine therapy, restore hope, and honor the memory of the souls gone too soon.