Services and Supports

Our Program
Bloom Behavioral is proud to partner with Flying Changes of Virginia to provide Equine-Assisted ABA Therapy. This unique and compassionate approach combines Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) with the therapeutic presence of horses to support autistic individuals and those with other developmental disabilities. Clients build social, emotional, and communication skills through structured interactions with horses, guided by licensed behavior analysts (BCBAs) and equine professionals. Whether grooming, leading, or simply connecting with a horse, each session is tailored to support meaningful behavioral goals in a natural, motivating setting. This dynamic, evidence-based therapy fosters confidence, emotional regulation, and growth—one step and one hoofbeat at a time.

What is Equine-Assisted ABA Therapy?
Equine-assisted ABA therapy is a research-based, therapeutic approach that incorporates horses to support the physical, emotional, and social development of autistic individuals. Guided by trained therapists, sessions include structured activities such as grooming, feeding, and leading horses—activities that promote motor skills, emotional regulation, and sensory integration. Horses are highly attuned to human emotions, offering a non-judgmental and responsive environment that promotes trust, empathy, and personal growth.

The Role of Horses in Therapy
Horses are uniquely suited to therapeutic work with autistic individuals because of their gentle demeanor and intuitive responses. They mirror emotional states and react to non-verbal communication, encouraging participants to engage and connect. 

Key therapeutic qualities of horses include:

• Non-Judgmental Presence: Horses offer unconditional acceptance, allowing autistic individuals to express themselves freely.
   
• Sensitivity to Non-Verbal Cues: Horses respond to body language and energy, helping clients develop self-awareness and communication skills.
   
• Emotional Mirroring: Horses reflect human emotions, supporting emotional regulation and insight.
   
• Trust and Bonding: Forming a relationship with a horse can improve confidence, social skills, and foster a sense of connection.
   

Benefits of Equine-Assisted Therapy for Autistic Individuals

• Emotional Regulation: Horse interactions can soothe anxiety and provide consistent sensory input that supports self-regulation.
   
• Improved Communication: Non-verbal and verbal skills are naturally practiced through horse care and guided sessions.
   
• Enhanced Social Skills: Shared activities with horses encourage teamwork, empathy, and interpersonal engagement.
   
• Sensory Integration: The textures, sounds, and movements involved in horse therapy offer rich sensory input that can enhance processing abilities.
  

Physical Benefits 

• Sensory Integration: Activities like grooming, feeding, and leading a horse provide rich tactile, olfactory, and proprioceptive input. These sensory experiences can support regulation and enhance spatial and body awareness.
   
• Motor Skills Development: Ground-based tasks such as brushing, carrying buckets, or leading a horse help improve fine and gross motor skills, coordination, core stability, and overall strength.
   

Emotional and Social Growth

• Confidence and Self-Esteem: Accomplishing tasks and connecting with a horse fosters independence and personal empowerment.
   
• Social Communication: Guided horse-related activities create opportunities to practice turn-taking, listening, and emotional expression in a supportive setting.

The Takeaway

 Equine-assisted ABA therapy is more than a method—it’s a connection. The relationships formed between individuals and horses foster a sense of trust, self-discovery, and transformation. These gentle animals help facilitate healing and growth in ways words often cannot. In this shared journey, progress is measured not just in skills gained, but in the joy, calm, and connection that take root along the way.