Returning to Horses as an Adult: Reconnect with Your Passion in Berks County, PA

Do you remember the feeling of being around horses? The quiet connection, the sense of freedom, the joy that came from spending time in the barn? If it’s been years—maybe even decades—since you last rode, you’re not alone. Life has a way of pulling us away from the things we once loved. But now, with more time and space in your life, that old passion is calling you back.

Coming Back to Connection is designed specifically for adults like you who are ready to return to horses after time away.

Reconnecting with Horses After Years Away

Whether you rode as a child, as a young adult, or somewhere in between, stepping back into the horse world can feel both exciting and intimidating. Maybe you’re an empty nester with newfound freedom, approaching retirement with time to redisccover old passions, or simply ready to reconnect with something that once brought you deep joy.
 
This four-week group at Take Heart Counseling in Wernersville, PA, offers a safe, supportive space to rebuild your horsemanship skills and confidence at your own pace. We understand that your body may feel different than it did years ago, that nerves might surface, and that you want to do this right—for yourself and for the horse.

Rebuilding Confidence with Horses in a Supportive Environment

Coming Back to Connection focuses on three essential elements: safety, confidence, and connection. Through thoughtful instruction and guided experiences, you’ll gradually rebuild the skills that may feel rusty while discovering new approaches to horsemanship that emphasize listening—to yourself and to your equine partner.
 
What makes this program different:
  • Age-appropriate pacing: We honor where you are physically and emotionally
  • Pressure-free learning: No competition, no judgment, just genuine support
  • Safety-first approach: Building confidence through proper technique and awareness
  • Relationship-based horsemanship: Connecting with horses through trust and communication
  • Small group setting: Learn alongside others who share your journey
This isn’t about getting back to where you were—it’s about rediscovering the joy of horses in a way that fits who you are today.

Adult Horsemanship Program for Returning Equestrians Near Reading, PA

Over four weeks, you’ll ease back into the horse world with guidance from Equine Professional Kody Kerkeslager. We’ll cover groundwork skills, horse handling, and riding basics while building your confidence and renewing your connection with these incredible animals.
Whether you want to eventually own a horse again, take regular lessons, or simply enjoy being around horses once more, this group gives you the foundation to move forward with clarity and confidence.
 
Key skills you’ll rebuild:
  • Safe horse handling and grooming techniques
  • Reading horse body language and behavior
  • Groundwork and leading skills
  • Mounting, dismounting, and basic riding skills
  • Building trust and communication with horses
  • Listening to your own comfort level and boundaries
You’ll work with our experienced, patient herd at our Wernersville facility—horses who understand that learning happens at different paces and who meet you right where you are.

Coming Back to Connection Group Details

When: Thursdays, 3:30-5:00 pm
Start Date: Week of April 13, 2026
Duration: Four weeks
Location: Take Heart Counseling, Wernersville, PA (serving Berks County, Reading, Lancaster, and surrounding areas)
Facilitator: Equine Professional Kody Kerkeslager
Investment: $350

Who Should Join This Adult Horsemanship Group?

This returning rider group is perfect for:
  • Adults who rode as children or teens and want to get back into horses
  • Empty nesters rediscovering hobbies and passions
  • Near-retirement or retired adults with time for new (old) pursuits
  • Anyone who has been away from horses for years and feels nervous about returning
  • Adults seeking a supportive, non-competitive environment to rebuild skills
  • People who want to reconnect with the joy horses once brought them
No matter how long it’s been—5 years, 20 years, or more—you’re welcome here.

It's Never Too Late to Come Back

There’s something powerful about returning to something you once loved. It’s not just about riding again—it’s about reclaiming a part of yourself, honoring what brought you joy, and giving yourself permission to pursue it again.
 
The horses are waiting. The barn is ready. And you deserve to feel that connection again.
 
Ready to come back to horses? Contact Kody at Kody@TakeHeartCounseling.com to register for our spring session. Spaces are limited for this intimate group experience.
Curious about our approach? Learn more about our Connected Horsemanship Program or explore other seasonal horsemanship groups we offer.

Two Steps Forward: Hope and Healing

At Take Heart Counseling, we’ve seen how meaningful progress can come from starting in calm, quiet spaces. For many families, this gentle approach helps children feel safer, more focused, and less overwhelmed. Wondering whether equine-assisted psychotherapy could support your child’s emotional growth? We’d be glad to talk through what might work best. Let’s find the right path together and start a conversation.

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