About Our Equine Operations
Chinook Horses in Billings is led by founder and executive director Abigail Hornik, who holds EAGALA and PATH International certifications as a riding instructor and Equine Specialist in Mental Health, along with training in Natural Lifemanship. The team includes licensed clinicians, among them Amy Crook (LMFT), Kyanne Wear (LCSW), Shannon Hodge-Shirley (LPPC) and Stephanie Melmer (LCSW), who co-facilitate sessions alongside EAGALA-certified staff. The nonprofit runs Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy for conflict resolution, depression, bereavement, trauma and anxiety; Equine Facilitated Learning for self-esteem, confidence, social skills and communication; and professional-growth sessions built around leadership and team building. The organisation states it provides access regardless of a participant’s financial capacity.