Equine Assisted Coaching Certification FAQs
With so many equine-assisted coaching certification programs available today, it’s an exciting time to enter this growing field. Our goal is not to convince you that we are the right choice—but to help you find the certification that truly aligns with the work you want to offer and the clients you feel called to serve.
We strongly encourage you to:
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Talk with graduates of different programs
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Connect with professionals already working in the field
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Schedule calls and ask thoughtful questions before enrolling
Choosing a certification is an important step. If you’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed, we’re happy to talk things through with you. Our mission is to support ethical, well-trained coaches and strengthen the equine-assisted coaching industry as a whole.
What sets The Freedom Way® apart from other equine-assisted coaching certifications?
The Freedom Way® is rooted in deep respect for the horse as a sentient being and equal partner in the coaching process.
Our training goes beyond facilitation techniques. We teach coaches how to:
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Understand and interpret equine communication during sessions
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Recognize and honor the horse’s active role in the coaching dynamic
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Work with intuition, empathy, and energetic awareness
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Facilitate sessions that are responsive, ethical, and deeply transformative
This approach cultivates meaningful, impactful experiences grounded in the horse–coach–client partnership, resulting in work that resonates on a profound level.
Do I need to own a horse?
No. You do not need to own a horse or have horse property.
Many of our graduates do not own horses. As part of the training, you’ll learn how to:
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Create professional partnerships with horse owners or facilities
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Establish ethical, safe, and sustainable working relationships
What horses make good equine-assisted coaching partners?
There is no single “type” of horse required for equine-assisted coaching.
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All breeds and ages can be excellent partners
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Horses, like people, have unique personalities and strengths
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The most important qualities are soundness of mind, safety, and willingness
We teach you how to assess suitability and honor each horse’s individual role in the work.
Do I need prior horse experience?
No prior horse experience is required.
Our program welcomes students from a wide range of backgrounds. If you are new to working with horses, we provide foundational horsemanship training, including:
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Safety and awareness around horses
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Catching, haltering, and leading
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Grooming and basic horse care
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Understanding a horse’s physical and emotional condition
Our goal is for you to feel confident, safe, and connected—regardless of your starting point.
Do I need prior coaching experience?
No previous coaching experience is necessary.
We teach the fundamentals of coaching within the context of equine-assisted work. If you are already a coach, therapist, or facilitator, the program allows you to:
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Deepen your existing skills
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Expand your approach through partnership with horses
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Integrate new tools into your current practice
The training meets you where you are and supports your growth.
Is a payment plan available?
Yes. Payment plans are available through PayPal Credit.
Do I need special insurance to offer equine-assisted coaching?
Yes. Liability insurance is required when offering equine-assisted coaching services.
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This is in addition to any professional insurance related to your background
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Liability coverage is widely available
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Typical costs range from $80–$200 per month
Are there prerequisites for the Level 1 Equine Assisted Coach Training?
No prerequisites are required.
The Level 1 training provides all the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to confidently offer equine-assisted coaching sessions.
Is the program online or in person?
The program is a hybrid format, combining online learning with hands-on, in-person training.
Online Training
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13 weekly modules
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Live online classes each week
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Training review, expanded teaching, and Q&A
In-Person Training
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Required 6-day retreat in Cave Creek, Arizona
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Hands-on experience with horses
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Supervised client sessions begin during the retreat
Is there a governing body for equine-assisted coaching?
No. Equine-assisted coaching is an unregulated industry.
There is no single governing body setting universal standards. Each certification program establishes its own:
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Ethics
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Training requirements
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Continuing education or maintenance expectations
Because of this, it’s important to thoroughly research programs and ensure their standards align with your values and long-term goals.
If the industry is unregulated, why get certified?
Certification matters—especially in an unregulated field.
A reputable equine-assisted coaching certification provides:
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A Proven Approach
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Comprehensive training, clear methodology, and a solid foundation so you can confidently deliver meaningful client experiences.
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Professional Credibility
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Clients are more likely to trust coaches who have invested in high-quality training. Certification demonstrates commitment, integrity, and professionalism.
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Ongoing Support
Choosing a certification led by experienced professionals means you’re supported during training—and beyond—as you build and grow your practice.
Certification with The Freedom Way® is a commitment to excellence that benefits you, your clients, and your business.
Do I need to re-certify or pay ongoing dues?
No. Once you complete the certification requirements, you are certified for life, provided you continue to meet The Freedom Way® Ethics and Standards.
We encourage you to ask any program you’re considering about:
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Re-certification requirements
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Annual practicum hours
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Membership dues or renewal fees
Each program is different—choose what aligns best with you.
Am I limited in how I run my business after certification?
No. You are not restricted in how you structure or operate your business.
Our certification empowers you to create a practice that reflects your vision, including:
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One-on-one sessions
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Group experiences
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Retreats and workshops
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Innovative or blended offerings
You decide how the work shows up in the world.
Are there restrictions on the clients or services I offer?
No, as long as you continue to meet The Freedom Way® Ethics & Standards.
We do not dictate:
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Your business model
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Your pricing
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Your service structure
Our role is to train you well and support your success—not limit your creativity or growth.
Do equine-assisted coaching sessions require additional facilitators?
No. You may work as a solo coach. Depending on your offerings or group size, you may choose to bring in additional support—but it is not required.
Still have questions?
We’re happy to help. Email us anytime.