Horses Spirits Healing, Inc
Billings, Montana
Horses Spirits Healing, Inc. (HSHI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Billings, Montana that offers equine therapy for veterans, first responders and their families. Its programs include therapeutic riding, equine assisted learning and community lessons, and its website says no prior horse experience is needed.
- Therapeutic riding for adults and children
- Equine assisted learning (EAL), group or individual
- Groundwork and riding
- Community lessons for family members
- Veterans
- Active duty military families
- First responders
- Family members of veterans
- Adults and children
More about this center
About the Program
According to its website, therapeutic riding lessons start from the ground up, whatever a rider's past experience. Equine assisted learning sessions use horses together with certified instructors, counselors and volunteers to work toward goals such as emotional regulation, trust, communication, boundary setting and decision making. EAL sessions can be set up for groups or individuals and combine groundwork and riding.
Family members of veterans and active duty military may take a lesson alongside their loved one free of charge, the center says. KULR-8 has reported that the program received a $75,000 grant through the VA to expand its work with veterans. See our guide to equine therapy for veterans.
The Horses and Staff
Program Director and Lead Instructor Amanda Tusler holds a Bachelor of Science in therapeutic riding instruction and psychology and is certified through PATH Intl., according to the website. Instructor Nikki Hofmann grew up on a Wyoming ranch and is a retired educator. Kella Murphy is the development director, and retired US Army Colonel David Powell serves on the board.
The herd listed on the site includes Taylor, Alec, Milkshake, Lulu, MasterCard, Tyra, Chance, Dexter, Wowzer, Ralph and Bella.
Volunteering and Support
HSHI accepts volunteers and donations through its website and holds community fundraisers, including events with the Billings Cattle Punchers hockey team.
Location
Horses Spirits Healing is based north of Billings, Montana. Its mailing address is PO Box 20198, Billings, MT 59104. The riding facility is at 7256 Highway 3, Billings, MT 59106. Call (406) 208-9774 for directions before your first visit.
From public records, not yet reviewed by the center · Last updated Oct 2026 Suggest an edit
Common Questions
Answered from the center’s own website and public records.
Do I need horse experience to take part?
No. The center says its riding lessons start from the ground up regardless of past horse experience.
Can family members join?
Yes. Family members of veterans and active duty military may take a lesson with their loved one free of charge, according to the website.
How much do sessions cost?
For current rates, call (406) 208-9774 or email aott@horsesspiritshealing.org. Our guide to equine therapy costs explains how centers typically charge.
How do I get started?
Contact the program at (406) 208-9774 or aott@horsesspiritshealing.org to ask about enrollment and scheduling.
Location
Billings, Montana 59106
Questions to Ask When You Call
The center is the best source for these answers.
- Are you running now, and taking new riders?Start here. We couldn’t confirm a current schedule.
- Which ages and needs do you work with?Ask about experience with your rider’s specific condition.
- Is a licensed PT, OT or speech therapist involved?Therapist-led hippotherapy is usually the only kind insurance may cover.
- What does a session cost, and are there scholarships?Many nonprofit programs offer sliding scales or sponsored spots.
- Do you have a mounting ramp or lift?Important for riders who use a wheelchair or need help mounting.