Find & Apply For Family / Behavioral Therapist Jobs in Castalia, Ohio

About Healing Trails At Healing Trails, we recognize the extraordinary connection that can develop between humans and horses. Equine-assisted therapy offers a unique opportunity for individuals to experience connection, build trust, develop self-awareness, and explore new ways of relating to themselves and others. Through the presence and responses of a horse, participants may discover meaningful opportunities for reflection, emotional growth, confidence, and personal development. Horses communicate in ways that are honest, immediate, and often subtle. Their sensitivity to body language, energy, emotions, and the environment can create powerful opportunities for learning and therapeutic exploration. These experiences require a knowledgeable and compassionate professional who understands the horse, recognizes what the horse is communicating, and appreciates the important role the horse plays in the therapeutic process. Healing Trails is seeking an experienced, reliable, thoughtful, and compassionate Equine Specialist who understands that this work is about much more than handling horses. It is about honoring the horse as an essential partner in the therapeutic experience and helping create an environment where both horses and participants feel safe, respected, and supported. Job Summary We are seeking a motivated and dedicated Equine Specialist to join our team. This role is ideal for someone passionate about working with horses and interested in the deeper aspects of horse psychology, behavior, and non-verbal communication. The Equine Specialist will play a key role in supporting both equine care and human-horse interactions in a safe, respectful, and effective environment. This position is ideal for an experienced equine professional who combines extensive hands-on horsemanship with a strong understanding of horse psychology, groundwork, equine body language, and nonverbal communication. The successful candidate will play an important role in supporting equine-assisted therapy sessions while prioritizing horse welfare, participant safety, and effective collaboration. Position Overview The Equine Specialist will provide knowledgeable, thoughtful, and attentive support for horses and participants involved in equine-assisted therapy. This role requires the ability to interpret subtle equine behaviors, recognize changes in a horse's emotional and physical state, and apply a sound understanding of equine psychology to support safe and appropriate interactions. The ideal candidate brings substantial practical experience working directly with horses, a commitment to continued professional development, and an interest in contributing to a team focused on the human-horse connection. Key Responsibilities Equine Care and Handling Provide attentive, knowledgeable care and safe handling of horses involved in program activities. Apply a thorough understanding of equine psychology, behavior, and body language when interacting with horses. Recognize and interpret equine nonverbal communication, including subtle behavioral cues, signs of stress, discomfort, relaxation, and engagement. Use appropriate groundwork and handling techniques to support horse welfare, safety, and readiness for sessions. Monitor horses' responses and communicate concerns about their well-being, behavior, or suitability for specific activities. Equine-Assisted Therapy Support Assist with equine-assisted therapy sessions by supporting safe, appropriate interactions between horses and participants. Observe equine behavior and participant interactions throughout sessions and respond appropriately to changing circumstances. Help maintain a calm, respectful, and safety-conscious environment for horses and participants. Collaborate with the appropriate team members to support session objectives while remaining attentive to the needs and welfare of the horse. Follow established program procedures, safety practices, and role-specific guidance. Participant Engagement and Collaboration Work as co-facilitator with licensed therapist in session with participants in a professional, patient, respectful, and supportive manner. Demonstrate awareness of how equine behavior and human nonverbal communication influence interactions. Help foster positive, appropriate horse-human interactions while maintaining professional boundaries and prioritizing safety. Communicate observations and relevant concerns of the horses clearly to licensed therapist. Professional Development Demonstrate a willingness to pursue relevant certifications and participate in ongoing professional development. Remain open to continued learning, feedback, and the development of skills related to equine-assisted services. Apply current knowledge and sound professional judgment to support the continued well-being of horses and participants. Required Qualifications A minimum of 6,000 hours of hands-on experience working directly with horses. At least 100 hours of experience in groundwork, horse psychology, equine body language, and nonverbal communication. Demonstrated ability to safely handle horses and interpret their behavior and communication. Strong practical understanding of equine behavior, body language, and horse-human interactions. Ability to recognize and respond appropriately to signs of equine stress, discomfort, and changes in behavior. Ability to work directly with participants in a professional, respectful, and safety-conscious manner. Strong observational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Willingness to pursue relevant certifications and engage in ongoing professional development. A commitment to equine welfare, participant safety, and continued growth in the field. Why Join Healing Trails? This is an opportunity to bring extensive equine knowledge and practical experience to assist in equine assisted therapy, which is meaningful work, that centers on the relationship between horses and humans. At Healing Trails, the Equine Specialist has an important role in supporting horse welfare, fostering safe and appropriate participant interactions, and contributing to an environment where equine behavior, communication, and individual needs are respected. We welcome candidates who bring substantial hands-on experience, thoughtful horsemanship, strong observational skills, and a genuine commitment to continued professional development.

Pay:

$30.00 - $50.00 per hour

Work Location:

In person