Turn-About Ranch - Residential Treatment for Teens on a Working Ranch

Real Ranch. Real Values. Real Change.

The horsemanship program goes beyond equine-assisted therapy and teaches real life skills taught by real horsemanship experts using practical application.

Each student is assigned a horse to take care of and work with. They start by learning the basics of the anatomy of the horse, safety, and care for their new 1,200-pound partner; then they move on to developing riding skills both in the arena and out on the trail. Finally, they are skilled enough to actually go out and work with the cattle. There is no greater feeling than what a student experiences at the end of a long hard day of being on the back of one of these magnificent creatures, and knowing that he and his horse worked well together and contributed something to the ranch.

The horsemanship program helps students learn the value of patience and the need to be focused, connected, and committed. They learn about relationships; how their thoughts, feelings, and actions affect others close to them; and that they need to set aside their personal frustrations so their negative attitude doesn't contaminate their environment. Working with a horse strengthens communication skills, decision-making abilities, and judgment skills. It helps the students develop and increase self-awareness and leadership while learning that they need to be responsible for themselves and others.

All of the skills that are acquired in the horsemanship program can be applied to developing healthier relationships and making positive contributions to one’s family, church, school, and community.