About Healing Trails

Our Roots

Healing Trails began as a vision driven by passion and a desire to offer something more natural and meaningful than traditional therapy settings. Founded by Kendra, a former Clinical Social Worker and Executive Director with Catholic Charities, our journey started in 1999 with the construction of a 60×80 building nestled in nature. Over the years, walls were built—physically and symbolically—to create spaces for healing: offices, gyms, bathrooms, and more.

In 2002, feeling called to something deeper, Kendra began developing Healing Trails while still working full-time. Evenings and weekends were spent marketing the dream. By 2003, the vision became reality with her full-time commitment to the center.

A Name with Meaning

The name Healing Trails reflects our belief that healing is not linear—there are many “trails” one might walk. Set in a peaceful natural environment, the center is a place to experience self-awareness, growth, and wholeness. Our logo, a tree encircled by spirits, symbolizes the connection between body, mind, spirit, and nature.

Overcoming Challenges

Building Healing Trails came with its share of obstacles:

• Zoning restrictions meant Kendra had to apply for a Conditional Use Permit (Professional Building Offices) and gain approval from the Margaretta Township Trustees.
• Allergies to horses posed a significant hurdle when she began exploring Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP). Allergy testing confirmed reactions to nearly everything in a barn—including the horses themselves. Kendra began a regimen of allergy shots to pursue the dream.
• Lack of awareness in 2003 made it difficult to educate the community and referral sources about integrative therapy and its power to support mental health and addiction recovery.
• Limited funding and staffing as a sole proprietor made it challenging for Kendra to find like-minded professionals experienced in integrative therapies.
• Growth and Milestones
  Despite early challenges, Healing Trails flourished with perseverance and heart. Some key milestones include:
• 2004: Launched our Equine Assisted Psychotherapy program after Kendra completed certification through EAGALA in Lehi, Utah.
• 2006: Expanded our team to include a Reiki Master, Certified Yoga Instructor, Massage Therapist, Tai Chi Instructor, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Rehabilitation Counselor, Personal Trainer, Nutritionist, Licensed Mental Health Therapist, and Equine Specialist.
• Addition Built: Added space to offer Tai Chi and Yoga for both kids and adults.
• 2021: Constructed an indoor arena. Welcomed three horses to our program—King and Prince (rescued), and Shade (a donation).
• 2025 and beyond: We’re continuing to expand our Equine-Assisted Program with even more specialized offerings.

Who We Serve

We provide healing opportunities for individuals and groups through integrative approaches. Our Equine-Assisted Programs support:

• Children with Autism (emotional regulation support)
• Victims of crime (including domestic violence, rape, and human trafficking)
• At-risk youth
• Veterans
• Individuals with eating disorders
• Those struggling with addiction (AOD)
• First responders