Winterspring Sanctuary

WinterSpring is a sanctuary for horses and humans.

We aim to provide Equine-Assisted Mental Health services in Central Pennsylvania using the EAGALA Model and integrating rescue horses.

The EAGALA Model is the global standard for equine-assisted psychotherapy and personal development, which incorporates horses' unique herd instincts to help clients heal. As herd animals with prey instincts, horses are experts at reading non-verbal communication. Their responses often remind clients of their goals, personal challenges, and/ or relationships with themselves and/ or others. This provides a safe environment to work through these things, where the horses only change when we do. 

Winterspring envisions a community where individuals facing mental health challenges find solace and healing through the transformative power of Equine Assisted Therapy. Providing a haven for rescue horses and offering specialized care programs, the organization supports individuals on their journey toward recovery. The sanctuary is dedicated to fostering partnerships with community organizations to provide alternative, comprehensive, and holistic support to those in need. While we don’t have a physical location yet, we partner with organizations to bring these transformative experiences to those who need them most.

These are our core values:

Integrity: Horses never lie. They are our mirrors, and with deep listening, awareness, and mindfulness, horses can show us truths about ourselves that go beyond talk therapy. We stay true to this philosophy in all our endeavors, upholding practices and systems that prioritize trust, peace, and belonging.

Compassion/Accessibility: WinterSpring programs are accessible to all who will benefit from horse interaction. Inclusivity is a driving element of our approach. We believe healing, reflection, wholeness, and self-examination should not be bound to privilege. All of us deserve this. 

Nature/Sustainability: WinterSpring values the natural world we live in and respects our part and responsibility to act consciously and sustainably without damaging effects. Spending time outdoors is essential to healing.

Growth/Learning: The beginner's mind is encouraged in every interaction between humans and horses. There is always something to learn, and each horse and human is an individual with unique needs and characteristics. 

Collaboration/Team-work/Communication: Interconnectedness is an essential part of human nature, through programs that encourage teamwork and communication, people feel empowered. 

Rehab/Integration: Winterspring supports rehabilitation and reintegration through the work at the sanctuary.