Healing Starts Here
 

Our Approach

Thank you for looking at our website.

At Horse and Soul Counseling, we believe that healing begins with connection—connection to self, to others, and to the natural world around us. We are proud to be part of your local community, offering professional mental health counseling and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) services in a serene, supportive setting.

Whether you’re facing stress, anxiety, grief, trauma, or simply seeking personal growth, we provide a safe and welcoming space to explore and heal. Our counseling services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, family, or group, with a deep respect for your lived experience.

What sets us apart is our integration of equine-assisted therapy, a powerful and experiential approach that involves working with horses as part of the therapeutic process. Horses are deeply intuitive animals, and their presence offers a unique opportunity to build trust, foster self-awareness, and support emotional regulation in a non-judgmental environment.

Our services are led by experienced, credentialed mental health professionals and certified equine specialists who are passionate about your wellbeing. Whether in the counseling room or alongside our herd, our mission is to walk with you on your path toward healing, growth, and resilience.

We are pleased to offer accessible care and accept a variety of health insurance plans to help ensure that cost is not a barrier to receiving the support you need.

We invite you to connect with us to learn more about our programs, ask questions, or schedule a consultation. Our hearts and hooves are here to support you.


 
 
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Where It All Began

Horse and Soul Counseling was founded in 2017, by Tara E. Higgins who worked in our community throughout her counseling career. Tara was determined to create an environment that was inviting to visitors while training competent helping professionals to provide mental health services. The belief that Tara brings to Horse and Soul Counseling is to emphasize the values and strengths of each individual being served while providing support towards healing. Tara is a devout Christian and believes in the healing power of Jesus in the counseling process. Although, some participants do not integrate these values into the therapeutic process this space has proven to be a place for divine healing.

 

Our Philosophy

We believe it takes small steps to work towards improving your quality of life. We specialize in working with children, adolescents, teens, adults, and families. We are an advocate for family counseling and often find this essential when completing goals towards a positive mental health. We believe counseling is short-term where your family relationships are forever. We offer traditional talk therapy services and animal assisted counseling services. Most of our participants enjoy integrating the horses into counseling sessions while others prefer the comfort of our offices on site.

 

We have diverse staff at our location so you can have the option of finding the right provider that understands the needs of you and your family. You have options of integrating faith based services or scheduling with our certified trauma professional. Either staff member has the qualifications to integrate their training during animal assisted sessions.

We encourage you to find the right counselor that can best support you and your family. This is a sensitive process where you have to feel safe and build a professional relationship with your counselor. I encourage you to reach out and stretch past any hesitation that may come up with having to seek the improvement of your mental health.

 

Meet Our Contractors

 

Tara Higgins, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor, Owner, Certified CLINICal trauma professional, APproved Board Supervisor

Welcome to Horse & Soul Counseling, led by myself (Tara Higgins), a dedicated professional with a passion for facilitating healing through the unique connection between humans and horses. With a background in counseling and extensive experience in equine-assisted therapy, I support staff with creating a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your feelings, build self-awareness, and foster personal growth. The approach integrates the transformative power of horses, encouraging individuals to connect with themselves and others on a deeper level. At Horse & Soul Counseling, we are committed to helping you and your family navigate your journey toward emotional well-being and fulfillment.

thiggins@horseandsoulcounseling.com or at (540) 220-1305

 
 

GRETCHEN FRITTER- Busy Bee Billing Services, LLC

Hello and welcome! I am the office manager here at the farm. I have lived and worked in Orange County as a medical office administrator since 2004 and joined Horse and Soul Counseling in 2021. I enjoy using my skills to help people navigate entry into our services and provide support for any billing or insurance needs. Please feel free to reach out to me at admin@horseandsoulcounselng.com or at 540-220-1305.

I am an empty nester and a G.G. to two amazing grandchildren. In my free time, I enjoy reading, spending time with family and playing with my 7 month old cat, Sam. Fun fact: Sam has the same birthday as my granddaughter Kinsley!

Wishing you and yours the very best on your healing journey.

 
 

Cathy Hayes - MS. Education, Curriculum and Instruction -owner of Clickety Clack Docs, LLC

I just love my retirement in beautiful Orange County, Virginia. I was a special educator for 36 years in the Maryland public school system. My husband and I (he's the one with the glasses & a supporter of Horse and Soul Counseling), have eight wonderful grandchildren, who keep us young at heart. I’m also an Administrative Assistant here, and I am happy to answer questions and concerns you may have, anytime during your journey via email, phone or text. So, call and together we’ll get started.

Please feel free to reach out to me at office@horseandsoulcounseling.com or at (804) 223-1194.

Horse and Soul will continue to serve our community by expanding services for a healthier you. “What you do today can improve all your tomorrows.” - Ralph Marston

 
 

Amber Hayghe, Bachelors in psychology - farm SUpport & equine specialist in traning

Hi! I hold a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Maryland and bring over 30 years of hands-on equine experience. I’m the proud owner of a wonderful gelding and a devoted wife and mom to three energetic daughters. Our family wouldn’t be complete without our three beloved dogs, who are truly part of the pack.

My heart is deeply rooted in my faith and a passion for rescuing animals. In my free time, I enjoy running and staying connected with the running community, spending time at the barn, cheering on my husband and kids in their various pursuits, and soaking in live music at concerts.

I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of the Horse and Soul team and look forward to sharing this journey with you

 
 

Shannon Solomon, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor-Solomon sanctuary, llc

Hi!! My name is Shannon. I’m a Licensed Professional counselor. I complete services using telehealth only here at the farm. I hold an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University and a B.S. in Animal Science with equine emphasis. I have recently moved back to my home state of MN to be closer to family. 

I have always had an intense passion for Christ and had a special bond with horses. My career aspirations have been combining ministry, horses, and counseling. Although I am only available virtually in VA I love equine assisted therapy and love working for Horse and Soul!

In my free time, I enjoy riding and spending time with my three horses, working outside, playing games with my husband and three kiddos, and drumming.

Please feel free to reach out to me at ssolomon@horseandsoulcounseling.com.

 
 

Brittany Cicero, Bachelors in Psychology - EAGALA Certified equine specialist - firesign Equine services, LLC

Hi there! My name is Brittany Cicero and I own Fire Sign Equine Services, LLC.  I am an EAGALA certified Equine Specialist with a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Illinois. Horses have always been an integral part of my upbringing. I feel blessed to be emotionally influenced by their presence and admire their innate ability to live in the moment. I have patiently prayed for a career that could unite my love of horses with the compassion I have for individuals seeking personal growth and development.

My mental health experience includes inpatient and outpatient hospital intake roles, behavioral health crisis line triage, and appointment and referral management.

In my free time, I enjoy horseback riding, photography, gardening and raising Monarch butterflies in the summer months.

Please feel free to reach out to me at equinesolutions@gmail.com.

 
 
 

Demery Schriver, MS - LIcensed Professional Counselor-Lead clinical therapist -Owner of Heeler peak Counseling, LLC

Hi, I’m Demery—a licensed professional counselor and the founder of Heeler Peak Counseling. I specialize in working with children and teens, helping them navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges through both traditional therapy and equine-assisted psychotherapy. With over 5 years of hands-on experience providing therapy on the farm, I’ve seen the powerful impact that horses, nature, and a safe therapeutic relationship can have on a young person’s healing journey.

While my primary focus is on youth, I also work with adults—especially women and LGBTQIA+ individuals—seeking support with codependency, life transitions, and emotional wellness. Outside the therapy space, I enjoy riding horses, training my dogs, and spending time outdoors. These passions shape the grounded, compassionate approach I bring to my work at Heeler Peak Counseling and Horse and Soul Counseling.

She is not available upon request, but on a case-by-case basis only.

Please feel free to reach out to me at dschriver@horseandsoulcounseling.com.

 
 

Mackenzie Taylor - Resident in Counseling-Sunshine souls counseling, llc

Hi! My name is Mackenzie. I am currently a resident in counseling, completing my required hours for LPC licensure. I hold an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a B.A. in Psychology.

I have a background working primarily with children and adolescents in the mental health field and I love the work that I do! I have a passion for helping others and enjoy using a collaborative treatment approach with my clients. My experience includes assisting vulnerable populations with navigating areas such as anxiety and depression, trauma, behavioral issues, and LGBTQIA+ issues. 

In my free time, I enjoy spending quality time with my family and fur babies, exploring new cities, and attending concerts.

Please feel free to reach out to me at mtaylor@horseandsoulcounseling.com.

 
 

Crystal Spears, MA, Resident in Counseling

Hi! My name is Crystal! I am currently a Resident in Counseling, gaining hours toward licensure. I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. 

I have experience working with children and their families providing intensive in-home services and therapeutic day treatment within a school setting. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, and those with an intellectual disability. 

I have a passion for helping people find peace in their lives. My love for animals has deepened my sense of empathy and connection; qualities I bring into every session. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy tailored to suit the needs of the client.

I was born in Burlington, VT, and grew up in Upstate NY in the Adirondacks. I moved to VA in 2006. I am a mom of two girls. We enjoy the outdoors and spending time with our 3 dogs, 2 cats, and several chickens!

Please feel free to reach out to me at cspears@horseandsoulcounseling.com.

 
 

Ashley Jenkins, Masters Level Intern

Hi, I’m Ashley — an intern completing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Equine-Assisted Therapy at Emory and Henry University. I hold a Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Virginia.

I am passionate about creating a space everyone feels safe, accepted, and truly seen. My work is grounded in empathy, authenticity and genuine connection and I believe when we connect with ourselves, others, and the world around us true transformation happens. During my time in healthcare, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals ranging from ages two to one hundred seven and enjoy helping people navigate life’s unique seasons and challenges.

In my free time, I find joy being creative through photography and art, spending time with my family, and being outdoors on my small farm with my horses and chickens, where I’m continually reminded of the grounding and restorative power of connection.

Please feel free to reach out to me at

ajenkins@horseandsoulcounseling.com

 

Mary Garwood, Crainosacral therapist

I specialize in a bodywork treatment called CranioSacral therapy (CST) for the horses here at Horse & Soul Counseling. I first started practicing human CST in 2015, when my son’s health required the treatment for his healing. About 5 years later I started my exploration of CST in the equine world.

CranioSacral therapy helps the horses to process the energies that they take on during counseling sessions. It is a non-invasive, light touch modality that works directly with the central nervous system to alleviate stress which in turn helps the horses to heal from their own injuries or traumas in addition to what they absorb from client sessions. While my training and experience is with humans and equine, I also enjoy working with dogs, cats and even lizards!

Stephanie Creed, Intern with Masters Program at Liberty University

Bio coming soon :)

Scott Boastfield, Intern with Masters Program at Liberty University

Hi, my name is Scott! I am an intern, and I am finishing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. I hold a Bachelor’s in Cultural Anthropology from James Madison University. I utilize a blend of ecotherapy, solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with an appreciation for existential themes and the search for meaning in our daily lives.

I like to focus on research and on demystifying the counseling process. I believe that you are the expert of your own story, and my role is to provide you with the tools that will help you shine inside that story. While there is no magic wand for life’s challenges, I rely on evidence-based methods that offer a proven path forward. My goal is to provide you with those evidence-based tools, reawaken your inherent strengths, and tackle the obstacles that caused you to seek counseling. Taking these first steps towards peace and hope is an admirable and courageous move and I am honored to support you in that process. We can’t make the entire surface of the world flat and smooth but together we can cobble you a very comfortable pair of shoes so the walk is more enjoyable :)

Yasmeen Burnell, LCSW, NADA Trainee, Yoga Teacher

As a therapist, I come authentic, eccentric, and humble. In our work together, we incorporate movement, nutritional changes, faith, and practical solutions to everyday problems as appropriate. As a yoga instructor trained in needling and insomnia services, therapy with me doesn’t always look like sitting stiffly on a couch talking in circles. We can approach healing in a variety of ways that actually fit your life. There is little to no fluff in sessions because the goal is to create real change while protecting the coin.

I also offer NADA acupuncture, a simple ear acupuncture practice used to support stress relief, emotional regulation, sleep, anxiety, trauma recovery, and overall nervous system balance. It’s gentle, grounding, and especially helpful for people whose minds never seem to shut off. Some clients use it as a reset button before or after therapy sessions, while others find it helps them finally exhale for the first time all week.

If your playlist includes Cardi B, Flyleaf, Eminem, Summer Walker, India Arie, Fantasia, and Elevation Worship, come on into my therapy room — I am likely the one for you. And if those heartfelt lyrics don’t appeal to you, I still may be a good fit. My usual clients are often the ones who think therapy is a joke, doesn’t work, or “isn’t really for them.” Those are my people too.

Sara Roberts, MA, Special Education, Trauma Informed Yoga Specialist, Natural Ljfemanship Level 1 Trained

Hi! My name is Sarah. I am honored to serve the Horse & Soul community as a yoga teacher. I teach from the belief that stillness is strength. Through yoga, breath, and embodied presence, I love to create a space where students can soften protective patterns, build steady awareness, and cultivate compassionate connection with themselves (and the horses). My goal is to bridge movement and mindfulness while also honoring both resilience and rest. 

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and sweet pooch, traveling, crafting and being active outside.