Our Story

At HeartSong EAC, we believe in the power of authentic connection. Our unique approach combines developmental psychology with horse-human bonds to help children, teens, and adults develop emotional strength that lasts a lifetime.

A girl is standing next to a horse in a field.

From personal discovery to purposeful practice


HeartSong EAC was born from a powerful realization: true well-being comes from our ability to form meaningful connections — with others and ourselves. Through personal experience and professional practice, we discovered that horses create an extraordinary environment for this growth to happen. Today, we help others discover their own path to emotional resilience through the unique combination of developmental psychology and the transformative power of horse-human bonds.

A Journey of Connection

"I founded my equine-assisted coaching business after discovering the healing and transformative power of horses, a journey informed by both my personal experiences and my education in Developmental Psychology. Through this combination, I realized that true well-being stems from the ability to form trusted, meaningful connections with others and within ourselves."

Laura Nickel

Founder, HeartSong EAC

A woman is standing next to a brown and white horse in a field of yellow flowers.

"I founded my equine-assisted coaching business after discovering the healing and transformative power of horses, a journey informed by both my personal experiences and my education in Developmental Psychology. Through this combination, I realized that true well-being stems from the ability to form trusted, meaningful connections with others and within ourselves."

Laura Nickel

Founder, HeartSong EAC

"I founded my equine-assisted coaching business after discovering the healing and transformative power of horses, a journey informed by both my personal experiences and my education in Developmental Psychology. Through this combination, I realized that true well-being stems from the ability to form trusted, meaningful connections with others and within ourselves."

Laura Nickel

Founder, HeartSong EAC

Science meets soul

our Founder

Laura Nickel

Laura is the heart behind HeartSong EAC. With many years of experience working with children, and a background in Child Development and Equine Assisted Coaching, Laura brings a unique blend of expertise, empathy, and dedication to creating fun and enriching one-on-one coaching and camp experiences.

 

Her trauma-informed approach, combined with her understanding of child development and how to use horses for equine-assisted learning, ensures that every activity is both engaging and growth-oriented, helping children discover confidence, emotional awareness, and resilience.

Credentials

A line drawing of a man holding a baby.

Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development

University of Pittsburgh

A black and white drawing of a horse walking on a white background.

Certified by the Equine Assisted Coaching Association (EACA)

A hand is holding a brain in its palm.

Background in developmental psychology, teaching, and crisis counseling

A black and white icon of a star with a check mark on it.

Natural Lifemanship Certified Level 1

A woman kisses the nose of a brown horse

"True healing and growth happen when we combine human psychology with an authentic connection with horses. At HeartSong EAC, I create a safe space where emotional resilience blooms through meaningful interactions with our equine partners."

Laura Nickel

Founder, HeartSong EAC

Our Equine Partners

Lucky

Personality: Friendly and laid-back, Lucky is the gentle soul of our herd. He loves spending time with people on the ground, offering a calm presence that's both comforting and uplifting.


Favorite Activities: Lucky adores scratches — he'll happily stand by your side for as long as you're willing to give them! He also enjoys leisurely trail rides.


Role at Heart Song EAC: As a cherished partner in our equine-assisted coaching exercises, Lucky excels in helping individuals find peace and connection. His soothing demeanor makes him perfect for clients seeking grounding experiences and gentle companionship.


Caretaker Extraordinaire: If he gets stung by a bee, he'll simply stop and wait patiently for you to notice, dismount, and help him. No bucking or fussing — just a considerate horse looking out for his rider's safety!

Bentley

Personality: Friendly, cuddly, and always forgiving, Bentley is the big-hearted draft cross who believes in second chances and soft nuzzles.


Favorite Activities: Bentley loves leisurely walks through the fields and connecting with people on the ground. He's a fan of long grooming sessions — especially when they include his favorite scratch spots!


Role at Heart Song EAC: Once an Amish farm horse, Bentley now shines as our primary lesson horse for beginner riders and those eager to learn about connection on the ground.


Fun Fact: If he feels you getting unbalanced or thinks you’re about to fall, Bentley will slow right down and adjust to get back under you. It's his special way of taking care of his riders!

Johnny Cash

Personality: At just four years old, Johnny is the enthusiastic youngster of our herd. He's always eager to meet new people and loves hanging out with anyone willing to give him attention.


Favorite Activities: Johnny adores snuggles and is incredibly curious about the world around him. Whether it's investigating new sights or making new friends, he's all in!


Role at Heart Song EAC: While he's a bit too young and underdeveloped to carry a rider just yet, Johnny is hard at work training with Antoinette at Hearts N Hooves. He's the star of her upcoming horse training program based on Natural Lifemanship principles.


Best Friend Alert: Johnny absolutely adores Lucky and follows him everywhere! Lucky has taken Johnny under his wing, showing him the ropes and helping him settle into life on the farm.


Fun Fact:  Despite being the youngest, Johnny's calm demeanor often surprises people. His friendly nature makes him a quick favorite among visitors.

Ready to meet us in person?

At HeartSong EAC, we meet you exactly where you are — no horse experience needed. Together, we'll discover the path that's right for you. Whether you're seeking growth for yourself or your child, we're here to guide you. Every journey starts with a simple conversation about your goals and needs.