White Horse Ranch

Frequently Asked Questions

When do girls get to ride a horse at the Ranch?

A client is not allowed to ride a horse at the Ranch until she completes Levels 1 and Level 2 and is on Level 3. A client is only allowed to ride a horse after she receives riding lessons and exhibits safe riding techniques. A client is only allowed to ride a horse in a well-fenced area where she is in close proximity of a trained Equine Specialist to monitor her riding safety at all times.

Can clients make phone calls while at the Ranch?

Yes, clients can make phone calls while at the Ranch; However, only following a one week waiting period after being admitted. Phone calls are only allowed in the presence of a client’s counselor or trained staff member. Clients are only allowed to call or receive a call from her parents the after the first week on the Unit. Following that call time, the client and her Therapist continue to call her parents one time weekly while she is on the Unit.

What if a client arrives at the Ranch in the middle of a school semester; will she still be able to pick up in school where she left off?

The Ranch contracts with the local School District to provide Certified Academic teachers during the academic school year. The Ranch and School District work in cooperation, utilizing the computer-based Web learning A+ Program. During the academic school year from August to May, girls are assessed for their academic competency level during the first week of arriving on the Unit and receive a grade placement level upon which to begin and continue their academic studies. A client may receive her High School Diploma while at the Ranch utilizing the A+ Program.

How long do clients stay at the Ranch?

A client’s length of stay is largely directed by her own individualized needs. A client’s Treatment Plan is built on a 90 day timeline, yet following that timeframe, if a client has not made sufficient progress toward her Treatment Plan Goals and Objectives; her Treatment Plan is extended to give her time to do so. An average length of stay is anywhere from 90 days to one year, depending upon a client’s needs.

What if a girl is fearful of horses?

Being fearful of horses is natural. White Horse Ranch uses a respectful approach, especially if a girl has not spent much time around horses during her lifetime. The Therapists and Equine Specialists at the Ranch work with each client on an individual basis, teaching her about her assigned horse. Every girl is able to work at her own pace in relation to the bonding and caring for her assigned horse.