For Those Whose Passion is Far More Than A “Hobby.”
Compassionate, Understanding, and Validating Therapy for Equestrians. Available in Pennsylvania and 30+ Participating Psypact States.
This is more than a hobby. This is your life—your passion—and you want a therapist who gets it.
Hi, I’m Dr. Lauren Bartholomew. As a Horse Person myself, I understand how deep the love runs for your horse, and I know how hard it can be to balance the pressures of living in the “real world” while dedicating yourself to the day-to-day grind.
Finding balance is key, but is understandably difficult when you’re trying to work two or even three full time jobs: caring for your horse and running a farm, tending to your day job, and making space for your friends and family.
It’s a lot to balance, but you know the day-to-day doesn’t have to feel so overwhelming. You’re ready for support—and this is where our work together begins.
My Approach to Therapy for Equestrians
In my work with my clients, I take a non-judgmental, accepting and validating approach to therapy. Clients who seek therapy for equestrians with me are met by a therapist who understands their world on a deeper level, and who won’t minimize or invalidate their passions.
In therapy, I work frompsychodynamic, humanistic, and internal family systems approaches to help you cope with the stresses of day-to-day life as a horse person. Using these approaches, we will explore the root causes of your pain, explore tools that help you approach your problems with curiosity and openness, and give you the space to grow into your authentic self.
Therapy for Equestrians Might Be for You If…
You need a therapist who understands the horse world
Your horse isn’t “just an animal”—your horse is an extension of your family, and you’re there for them rain or shine. In therapy, you’ll never hear me downplay the importance of your passion in your life—I understand the early mornings, the “quick trips” to the barn, and how all-consuming this passion can be.
You want a place to explore your feelings without judgment
In therapy, we’ll explore your pain and daily difficulties through a non-judgmental and accepting lens. Together, we can address anxiety, depression, relationship stress, and more. Together, we’ll explore tools, skills, and techniques to help you manage the day to day grind.
You want a space where you can speak your language and be truly understood
You can tell me that your horse got spooked by a port-a-potty door slamming, causing you to come off after the oxer, that your billet strap broke during your flat class, that you were so worried when your horse showed signs of colic, or that you can’t stand the thought of your farrier retiring, and I will know exactly what you mean. No more feeling like you need to explain yourself just to be heard—when you work with me, we’ll be speaking the same language and can work together from this shared knowledge to help you reach your goals.
Next Steps
1. Free Consultation
Reach out to schedule a free, no obligation consultation to learn if I am the right therapist for you. You can ask me questions and learn more about how I can help you.
2. Find Clarity
Understand how your emotions, thought patterns, and beliefs may be keeping you stuck—and gain new tools and skills that will help you overcome these barriers and meet your goals.
3. Make Consistent, Positive Change
Work toward leading a life you love with consistent, positive changes that support your growth and healing.