What to Expect From Your Session 

The Equine Gestalt Method supports experiential opportunities with a horse as a guide, and a trained practitioner as a witness. The work honors how the body speaks first and allows an opening to the truth found in each of us. The end hope is that the client will begin to view themselves and their relationships with others in a new light.

Each session looks different depending on how the client and the horse show up that day. The work is wildly creative and filled with moments of deep awareness which can be processed in the moment right beside the horse.

The Gestalt Method works quickly, and is not a form of long-term therapy. Clients can expect to see results within 1-6 sessions.

Sessions and Services We Offer

01

PRIVATE horse sessions

02

phone coaching

03

WOMEN'S retreats

04

WORKSHOPS

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The Experience

Private Sessions with a horse

Private sessions are 90 minutes. Working with myself and a horse, we examine limiting beliefs that are holding you back from living authentically. Direction, clarity, and purpose for life are discovered while the horse honors your vulnerability and courage. Freedom and a new feeling of wholeness is the end result.

phone coaching

Phone coaching is for clients who desire to continue their path in-between sessions with the horse. Phone sessions provide continued accountability and support. Sessions are 30 to 45 minutes and will allow continued progress toward your goal.

Workshops

Coming soon! Day long workshops offered in Fall of 2021.

Women's retreats

Women's retreats are being planned and will be listed soon!

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Become grounded in your truth with Heels Down Healing

Still Wondering if Equine Gestalt is Right For You?

You know when you were little and the most beautifully wrapped present arrived from your favorite relative a good five days before your birthday? Your parents made you wait and the anticipation and nervousness about what was in the box nearly sent you into a tizzy? You just knew it was something you needed as the relative knew you inside and out.

They have THE gift of knowing what you need at the present moment. They offer it freely and willingly. And you do not need to write them a thank you note!

well, that's kind of like what my horses do!

FAQ

What does a typical Private Horse session look like?

When you arrive at Glen Grove Equestrian Center in Lincolnshire, IL, Melissa will greet you in the parking lot. A horse barn and pastures of green grass are the welcome before entering the barn and my private work area. You will be asked to sign insurance releases before meeting the horses. After the administrative items are complete, you and Melissa will sit facing one another while your equine partners listen to your body and heart speak. The magic of the work can then begin. Sessions are typically 90 minutes long.

what should you wear to your session?

Dress appropriately for the weather and you must wear close toed shoes.

Do i need any prior horse experience?

No, you do not need any horse experience! 

The Equine Gestalt Method

The Equine Gestalt Method was developed by Melisa Pearce, a core founder since 1989, of the horse-human healing movement. The experiential nature of the method involves the horse as an active partner with the coach in the client's exploratory process. The integrative approach of the equine's interaction combined with positive coaching, somatic awareness guidance and Gestalt methodology, assists the client in examining their life and choices made with a focus on designing a positive future.

"Your presence and compassion allowed me to feel safe and release grief that I have been carrying for a long time. Thank you for holding space for me and guiding me through the process with such ease and gentleness." 

"It was a complete honor to have been your client." 

Haley, Denver, CO

"She then helped me find a very creative way to not only overcome, but to use what I had discovered to amplify my found strengths! Thank you!"

"Melissa offered me a very vivid, but safe, way of exploring a painful moment in my past."

Kim, Adrian, mo

"You gave me such a great experience that will stay with me forever. You were made for this work." 

"Thank you for "walking with me" through a metaphor that has defined my life. 

Kamrynn, Elizabeth, CO

I Look Forward to Connecting with You!

I look forward to hearing from you! Fill out the form or contact me directly to schedule your Discovery Call:

melissa clary

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