Five Horses, LLC, Waller

Shannon Birkelbach and her trusty staff at Five Horses, LLC are disciples of natural horsemanship, an equitation method that stresses interspecies relationships and self-improvement. Riders learn to communicate with horses through body language and becoming fluent in Horse, building confidence with the animal while developing leadership skills along the way. They also can better their balance, biomechanics, and ability to look positively magnificent while riding.

In addition to their natural horsemanship lessons, the team also specializes in two therapy services: equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) and equine-assisted learning (EAL). EAP relies on horse-based activities and trained therapists to help people improve their relationships in all facets of life. EAL, on the other hand, is a learning-focused approach relying on horses’ natural abilities, and is often used by corporate groups to conquer work-related issues. Unlike many other equine facilities that simply offer rides, Five Horses focuses on the ongoing therapeutic effects these animals have on their human counterparts, and is certified through the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association and OK Corral.