"I went through the Next Step four week program in April of 2022. When I began the program I was experiencing high levels of anxiety. I have never been someone who loves horses, but I felt that being outside and with animals in general would be helpful.
I immediately noticed that Patty and Jonnie were often adjusting the program so that it worked within my comfort level. This allowed me to become more relaxed with the horses. I am a visual learner and seeing the horses reaction to my energy was an integral part of the experience. It taught me about my non verbal cues and more about how our energy is received. I have always been someone who was interested in these topics but their workshop taught me much more in an interesting and engaging format. The same work, done without the horses, would not have been as effective. The horses are an integral part of the experience.
I enjoyed all aspects of the workshop and I have used all of their techniques daily since it ended. I often hear Patty and Jonnie’s voices in my head reminding me of the strategies used to calm my body when I feel the anxiety getting stronger. It is a highly effective program to alleviate our body's response to a perceived threat.
The Next Step program is a wonderful way to learn about yourself and how you deal with stress while enjoying the beauty of nature. The horses, in my opinion, are an integral part of the learning experience. I always felt safe, listened to and completely engaged. I am convinced I will carry these coping strategies with me for many years to come. It was truly a gift to spend these four weeks with Patty and Jonnie.
Brooke; wife, mother, educator
"After years of working on myself and helping many clients through various therapies, I felt that I had pretty much been there and done that, before I attended The Next Step.
Then I met Zeke. An entire universe opened up, a very personal one of trauma for me, and I was suddenly afraid of this particular horse. (I spent much of my youth among horses, so this was unexpected.) Thanks to Patty’s gentle patience and trust in her horse, the process, and, I guess, in me, I was able to connect in an immediate and totally fresh way. An untouched pocket of trauma was healed through the simplicity, realness, and safety of connection with this magnificent animal.
Patty and the other helpers had set the stage for something truly wonderful to happen. I could not more highly recommend attending The Next Step, as you will be met wherever you happen to be."
Nan, Diamond Approach Teacher
"After 20 years of taking sleeping pills, after my first session I was able to sleep through the night on my own, no sleeping pills. The work with the horses has settled me, helped me to stay in the present and 'go back to grazing'. Amazing."
Tina, Recently Widowed
"I just wanted to drop you a quick note to tell you how very much I enjoyed the Equine Therapy class yesterday. I came home tired, but energized, and feeling good. And today I keep finding myself thinking of all the things that happened yesterday. Honestly, when my husband gave me this I thought 'are you kidding me'. I went for him but Oh Boy was that not what happened. The horses and all the humans were really a great experience and I definitely want to come to another session. I keep saying to myself 'wow this is so simple, how come no one ever said this to me before?' I wish everyone could experience what I did yesterday."
Gretchen, Retiring Business Executive
"I was transported by the gift of being able to communicate, and be responded to, by my time with the horse. At times the silences were most resonant, knowing that the connection was being formed, and the heart of the horse entrained us all."
Franca, International Ballet Dancer and Actress
"Horses are hyper-vigilant animals, detecting the slightest sound, smell, or movement, and can sense the emotions and intentions of those around them. This psychological mirroring provides instant feedback to the participant. During a four-hour session, spent with her horse (there is no riding involved) and in the classroom, Erin focused on building strength and bypassing self-sabotaging walls that prevent her from reaching her full potential. Jonnie and Patty, both certified therapeutic riding instructors, provide a safe and supportive environment that allows participants to reach their customized goals at their own pace. The program is intended to guide you through life transitions, boost self-esteem, learn clear communication methods, and rebuild relationships. Whether you’re experiencing a major life change or feel stuck in neutral, The Next Step can help you move past challenges and transition into happiness and success. Riders reap the emotional benefits of the bond with their horse; now non-riders can, too."
The e-list review, November 2017