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Equine Therapy in Arizona
In partnership with our brother program, Holdfast Recovery, men have the opportunity to participate in donkey-assisted therapy as part of a holistic recovery journey. Learn how this unique approach supports reflection, responsibility, and spirtual renewal.
What is Equine-Assisted Therapy?
Equine-assisted therapy is a form of experiential therapy that uses interactions with traditional horses, but in our program, donkeys, to support emotional, psychological, and spiritual growth.
Unlike traditional therapy that relies solely on conversation, equine-assisted therapy provides a hands-on, real-world experience. Working with donkeys requires patience, self-awareness, and clear communication.
These gentle, intelligent animals respond honestly to human behavior, giving immediate feedback that helps participants reflect on their actions, emotions, and relationships.
Benefits of Equine Therapy for Addiction Recovery
Donkey-assisted therapy offers powerful benefits that complement the work men are doing in recovery. By engaging in hands-on experiences with these animals, participants gain skills and insights that carry into every aspect of life and recovery.
Awareness & Emotional Regulation
Donkeys mirror emotions and behaviors, helping participants recognize patterns, practice patience, and respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.
Accountability & Responsibility
Caring for and guiding a donkey requires honesty, consistency, and follow-through — essential skills for long-term recovery.
Trust & Relationship Building
Men learn to cultivate trust with another living being, which translates into healthier relationships with peers, family, and mentors.
Faith-Centered Reflection
The humble donkey provides a living reminder of biblical lessons in humility, service, and steady strength, deepening spiritual growth alongside emotional transformation.
Stress Relief & Mindfulness
Working outdoors with donkeys encourages presence, stillness, and grounding, offering a break from the pressures and triggers of everyday life.
What To Expect from Our Equine-Assisted Program
At Anchor Point, we believe that true recovery comes from both heart and action. Men can engage in donkey-assisted therapy, a hands-on, experiential approach that complements their recovery journey.
Every step of the process is intentional, blending faith, personal responsibility, and practical experience to support lasting transformation.
Arrival & Introduction
Upon arrival, participants are introduced to the donkeys in a calm, guided setting. Men learn about each donkey’s personality and behavior, creating a foundation of trust and respect before any exercises begin.
Guided Exercises with Mentors
Under the supervision of trained mentors, participants engage in practical exercises with the donkeys. These activities are designed to develop patience, leadership, emotional awareness, and teamwork.
Reflection & Debrief
After each session, clients take time to reflect on what they learned and discuss it with mentors and peers. This connects the experience with personal growth, helping men translate what they’ve learned with the donkeys into meaningful change in their daily lives.
The Donkey: A Biblical Symbol of Strength, Humility, and Service
Donkeys have long been recognized as symbols of humility, service, and steadfast strength in Scripture, most notably when Christ entered Jerusalem on a donkey, a reminder that true power lies in humility and obedience.
At Holdfast, donkeys are more than participants in therapy; they are teachers. Their calm nature and honest responses encourage men to practice patience, self-awareness, and gentle leadership. Unlike animals that respond to force or intimidation, donkeys require authenticity, respect, and steady guidance, mirroring the spiritual and personal principles that support recovery.
Through this unique partnership, men discover that healing and growth often come from unexpected teachers and that humility, patience, and service are essential parts of the recovery journey.
Recovery Made Accessible
We work directly with your insurance provider to lower out-of-pocket costs and remove barriers to treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Donkey Therapy
Do I need prior experience with animals to participate?
No experience is necessary. Donkeys are gentle, calm, and intuitive, and all activities are guided by trained mentors. Participants are supported every step of the way to ensure safety, learning, and growth.
Why donkeys instead of horses?
Donkeys are naturally calm, grounded, and perceptive. They respond honestly to behavior, which helps participants practice patience, leadership, and emotional awareness. Additionally, donkeys hold biblical significance as symbols of humility and strength.
Is this therapy appropriate for all stages of recovery?
Yes. Donkey-assisted therapy is designed to complement other recovery programs at Anchor Point and Holdfast. Whether early in the journey or further along, participants can benefit from the hands-on lessons in accountability, trust, and reflection.
How long is a typical session?
Sessions vary by program schedule, but each includes arrival and introductions, guided exercises with mentors, and reflection/debrief. The goal is to provide meaningful, experiential learning in a safe, structured environment.
Is equine therapy covered by insurance?
Our equine-assisted therapy is covered by most major insurance plans, helping make this transformative therapy more accessible. Coverage can vary depending on your provider and plan, but we can help you verify your benefits and guide you through the process to reduce the financial stress of getting connected to treatment.
Faith, Strength, and Donkeys: A Pathway to Transformation
At AnchorPoint, we unite faith, trauma-informed care, cutting-edge addiction neuroscience, and experiential approaches such as donkey therapy to restore men’s strength and foster transformation rooted in recovery.
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google reviews
Mark North
I’ve known the team at Anchor Point for years. The recovery community has been waiting for their residential program to open and after touring it exceeded all expectations. As a Christian man in recovery myself I’m blown away by Holdfast/Anchor Points integration of treatment and the principles of Christ. We see success story after success story coming from their program. Thanks for all you do to advance the Kingdom and restore men to health.
Ryan Fisher
Anchorpoint and Holdfast are amazing and life changing. Staff are the most caring and knowledgeable people. Facilities are top notch! Would recommend to anyone looking to recover from addiction and change their lives for the better. Call them today to better your life!
Kevin Lussier
I highly recommend this facility, the staff truly care. Even long after I’ve graduated treatment, I’m still connected. Helping me through all stages of my growth. I didn’t just go to treatment, I found a new way to live. I’m living my best life and my journey has just begun. I’m forever grateful.
Chris sanders
Great staff that goes above and beyond for its clients! If you’re struggling with addiction and need help this place can definitely help! It’s a safe, drug and alcohol free environment where you can work on yourself with great assistance!
Karen Hayden
It is such a welcoming facility with all the comforts of home, an excellent location to recover and be transformed by the faith-based Christian program it offers for healing and restoration!
Mallory White
After years of struggling with substance abuse and deep-rooted trauma, my loved one was lost, hopeless, and disconnected from both himself and God. AnchorPoint not only helped him find recovery, but also led him back to faith and a completely new way of living. The compassion, patience, and dedication of the team is unlike anything we’ve experienced. They didn’t just treat symptoms, they helped him heal from the inside out. Today he’s thriving, living a healthy spiritually grounded lifestyle. We are forever grateful for the role AnchorPoint played in this transformation.
