LOWELL, Mich. — There is a place in Lowell Township with 1,200-pound animals that have healing qualities.

The Barn for Equine Learning utilizes horses in its therapeutic programs. With licensed mental health professionals, they create a treatment strategy with patients using horses to help communicate.

“They're an animal that wants to connect, and our horses want to do this job and to be around people,” said Kat Heggen, executive director and founder.

They work with children in group homes, people dealing with mental health challenges, victims of sex trafficking and others facing traumatic events in their past.

“It breaks down barriers. It breaks down walls. It allows people for that interaction and that therapist to see different perspectives,” said Heggen.

The Barn also offers adap

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