About Us
Whitney McMahan, the founder of Hold Your Horses, has over two decades of experience working as a therapist supporting children and teens with complex trauma, including those involved in sexual exploitation. She knows firsthand that while traditional talk therapy is valuable, there are times when trauma survivors need more.
When horses are present, something unique happens. Horses offer calmness, grounding, and connection without judgment or expectation. For Whitney and those she served, time at the barn often became more than a therapeutic intervention; it became a place where kids could relax, regulate, and simply be themselves. Impacted by these experiences, many asked to return just to spend time around the horses.
Unfortunately, funding for equine-assisted therapy is limited, and the children and families who could most benefit often face financial barriers to access. Out of this need, Hold Your Horses, Inc. was created to help make these healing opportunities possible.
Whitney & her horse, TikTok
Vision
Children and teens who have experienced trauma will find lasting healing and growth.
Mission
To provide access to equine therapy to
under-resourced children and teens
impacted by trauma.
Who We Serve
Hold Your Horses currently serves children and teens, ages 5 through 18 years old, in the state of Illinois, who:
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Have a history of psychological trauma
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Come from under-resourced communities and qualify for government assistance
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Are currently engaged in mental health therapy and would benefit from a complementary, experiential approach to support deeper healing and personal growth
As we fund a limited number of equine therapy sessions, we currently serve those who are actively participating in ongoing therapeutic care. This ensures continuity of care when the equine therapy package comes to an end.
