Why? FAQ’s

Why do you do coaching and therapy outside with horses and other animals?

Because life is not lived inside one therapy office. Animals and the outdoors are our greatest teachers. Life is lived (and learned) outside and out in the world.

What will we do in session?

What won’t we do? We can go for a walk. We can spend time with a horse outside in their paddock. We can do at liberty work with the horse. We can spend time with a horse one on one in their stall. We can sit with a donkey or sit with a cat. The sessions are determined by your needs, and we will collaborate to identify what is the best fit for you that day.

How long are sessions? How often are they?

Sessions are typically around 45 minutes. Sessions are scheduled per each client’s unique needs and goals, however most are either weekly or every other week.

Why does this type of treatment work?

Some people find typical office therapy effective. Some people struggle when all eyes are on them and shut down. When tasked with specific activities, it allows people to open up.

Are the animals safe?

All farm animals are appropriately vaccinated and safe. All animal interaction on the farm is supervised by us, Victoria and Paulina. When working with all animals, there is some inherent risk involved.

How much do services cost?

We’re happy to do a free 15 minute phone consultation to see if you’re a good fit. A 45 minute counseling or coaching session is $170. A 60 minute counseling or coaching session is $190. An initial intake assessment is $250.

Do you take insurance?

Insurance is an option for telehealth therapy only. Victoria takes Aetna, Cigna, Carelon, Optum. Paulina does not take insurance. For out of pocket payments, we can offer a “superbill” that you can submit to insurance for reimbursement.

Is there horseback riding available?

Both farms offer horseback riding lessons, however in coaching and therapy there is generally no riding.

What should I expect at my initial intake assessment?

Plan for the intake to last 90 minutes (it could be less). We will go through our initial intake paperwork, and review things like confidentiality, HIPPA, and scheduling, as well as treatment goals.

Testimonials

The farm location and Victoria’s approach to therapy worked like a charm for our son [who lives with multiple challenging diagnoses]. He resisted to participating for the first few sessions, and Victoria found the right buttons and strategies to engage him and connect. While there is still work to be done, I would wholeheartedly recommend Wild Child Living.
— Parent
My son told me that you have helped him the most and he loves seeing you. He has been using the strategies that you told him. My son’s mental health journey has been complicated. Victoria has given him hope and she has helped him to accept his responsibility in this journey. Her method is working. I am glad they are on the journey together.
— Parent
I am fulfilled working with Victoria because she puts perspective in our conversations with reasonable suggestions for improvement, honest feedback and a clear plan of action.
— Self Identified "Ornery Old Guy"
Victoria is an important support person for our teen, who is dealing with young adult issues but still sees them through the lens of a developing adolescent. It is a rare person who can establish trust with a teen and can also challenge them to think about things differently. Our teen feels fully accepted by Victoria & looks forward to seeing her.
— Parent
I spent months searching for a therapist that would be a good fit for my son. Luckily, I saw a post recommending Victoria at Wild Child. Victoria was prompt in her response and we gave it a try. My son loves how the therapy is outdoors and he gets to interact with horses. His only complaint is that the sessions aren’t long enough. I feel very lucky to have found Victoria and Wild Child Living as it is no longer a chore to get my son to therapy.
— Parent