Become an Intern at Horse Sense!

Horse Sense of the Carolinas, Inc. offers three distinct internship programs and an apprenticeship course of study for those wanting to learn more about  Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL). Before pursuing one of our internships, please check out the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association web site (www.eagala.org) for more information about the fields of EAP/EAL. To learn how to apply for one of our internships, please contact Josie Mosser, Adminstative Assistant, at JosieM@HorseSenseOtc.com. Internships at Horse Sense include:

General - This program is a basic introduction to EAP/EAL and requires only a general knowledge of horse care and an interest in EAP and EAL. This 10-week internship runs every quarter and interns help out with a variety of duties including barn chores, office tasks, public tours, demonstrations, and horse care. Each Intern also participates in Staff Playdays with the Horse Sense team to directly experience EAP activities.

Business - This program is designed for students pursuing a degree in Equine Business who need to fulfill an academic credit requirement with their college or university. Interns work closely with the Horse Sense Practice Administrator to learn the all the ins-and-outs of successfully running an EAP/EAL business. We highly recommend that Business Interns be familiar with the book Horse Sense, Business Sense, by Shannon Knapp.

Intensive - This program is designed for those yearning to spend a period of time with Horse Sense for a more comprehensive experience. This internship involves a cost and can run from 1 week to 3 months and housing is available. Those interested in the Intensive Internship must submit a list of objectives, a current resume and length of stay desired before consideration.

Apprenticeship - This program of study is our year-long program, designed to be a comprehensive study of the field. It includes four main components: Horses & Horsemanship, Therapy & Learning, The EAP/EAL Continuum, and Business Sense. This program includes home-study with phone consultation and email support, along with a minimum of five days onsite for each of the four components at Horse Sense for more intensive coaching and supervision. Please submit a cover letter, a list of objectives and a current resume for consideration.

Testimonies by former Horse Sense interns:

"Thanks so much for your time and generosity with your farm and your business. I had a wonderful time, I learned a lot, and I felt surrounded by warm, loving, thoughtful people. You have a sweet business and are doing good works!!" peace-_-Teri

"I want to thank you for my wonderful experience as an intern at Horse Sense. I was curious last summer, when I first came to the tour and experienced the power of [the activity] Catch & Halter for myself. Participation in a variety of activities . . . gave me a much more complete view of just what Horse Sense is all about, and what it takes to make it work. Best wishes to you and your equine co-workers!"---Karen

"I initially came to an open house at Horse Sense to see what they were doing. My own limited experience with horses had taught me how sensitive they are to the beings around them. After hour-long discussion and demonstration, I was hooked.What people try to hide, the horses see. And once it is out, the healing can begin. For me the internship was a way to be a part of a healing community as well as a way to put my energy behind something I strongly believe in. It has been a blessing in many ways.While Ive learned about EAP/EAL and served as a vocal supporter in different areas of the community for Horse Sense and the work they are doing, the best part of the internship was the people. The therapists and equine specialists each bring their own experiences to bear, and the mix is magical.Its also been a lesson in finding and following your passion, which is after all the point of healing and understanding yourself better. Shannon Knapp serves not only as a leader, but as an example as well.It has been great to be a part of this exciting time for Horse Sense and I know the relationship will continue."---Sarah

"My internship at Horse Sense was an incredible opportunity to learn about EAP, and it opened so many doors for me in my life. I'm so grateful to have been a part of such a rich opportunity for learning both about myself and what kind of work I want to be doing out in the world." ---Meghan

"During my time as a Horse Sense intern, I was able to experience an entirely new way of working with horses, as well as with people. Not only did I learn about EAP and the development of EAP programs, I was able to educate the community about this unique type of growth work. Equally fittling with the EAP process itself, (experiential, hands-on and evolutionary) the internship is a worthwhile experience for anyone in a helping, education, or mental health service profession." ---Jill

"After feeling a calling to be around horses, I went to HSOTC looking for a place to connect with horses. What I found was a place established with the intention to support growth, healing and personal development. Having never heard of EAP/EAL or Parelli Natural Horsemanship, I was sincerely touched to experience these techniques and to witness a therapeutic approach that connected people and animals. The horses are wonderful teachers and guides, helping people to learn authenticity and their personal truth. They also give immediate feedback without judgement. I believe that HSOTC and the services they offer can be of help to people at all stages of their life, facing whatever challenges may be present."---Becky

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