We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ashley Rae Colwell. Check out our conversation below.
Ashley Rae , it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
One of the most common misconceptions about equine therapy is that it’s simply about grooming or riding a horse. But true equine-assisted therapy goes far deeper. Horses are intuitive, emotionally intelligent beings that form powerful bonds with humans. They don’t just participate—they hold space. They sense shifts in energy, mirror emotions, and respond to the unspoken.
What many people don’t see is how much these animals give during each session. Just like us, they need mental breaks and time to reset. That’s because equine therapy is not a passive activity—it’s a profound exchange.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, my name is Ashley and I am a Speech Language Pathologist and the founder of Horse Assisted Learning & Therapy Inc. (H.A.L.T.). We are a nonprofit organization that works with children and adults with special needs. We are different than some because we use the most magical animal in therapy sessions, a horse! We have horses that are rescued and have a second chance in life and we work with them either mounted or unmounted in therapy sessions. We also have a Veterans program and many others.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My dad taught me the most about work. He is an amazing provider and father and has always worked hard. From an early age he worked multiple jobs and lived on little because he had a goal he set for himself. He is a good business man and good with finances. My dad always taught us as children how important hard work was and how nothing should be given to you. He started his own company with his brother and worked a very draining and physical job, worked long hours and sometimes had to handle calls for an emergency at night. He is an honest and hardworking man who would give anyone the shirt off his back and the kindest soul I know
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes for sure. I knew that starting a nonprofit would be difficult and there were many times where I questioned what I was thinking and why I couldn’t have just gone and worked for a company as a Speech Language Pathologist and not have had to deal with all the extra work and issues that came up. So many times I felt like I was taking 1 step forward and 10 steps back, but I started H.A.L.T. because it was my dream and I stuck with it. I also had many people who were standing behind me and supported me and I wasn’t about to let them down either. I am so thankful everyday that I continued on this amazing journey!
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes most definitely….I wear my heart on my sleeve and sometimes I have a hard time hiding my feelings. I have no poker face. What you see is what you get for sure. I am a strong woman who loves her family, friends, animals, and people in general. I want to help everyone and everything and change the world. Two of my favorite quotes are “you must be the change you want to see in the world”- Gandhi and “as one person, I cannot change the world, but I can change the world of one person.” – Paul Shane Spear. I love life and feel so blessed everyday for what I have and want to make everyone smile.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I am 100% doing what I was born to do. I have always had a special place in my hearts for those in need. From an early age I rescued animals and wanted to help people. I am a compassionate and a happy person. I truly believe when you love what you do, you don’t work a day in your life. My “job” brings a smile to my face everyday and so much joy to my life in being able to help others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.halt2help.org
- Instagram: halt2help
- Linkedin: halt2help
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085689145151&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
Ashley Rae Colwell, M.S., CCC-SLP
