Kim Severance

Kim has an M.S. and certifications in Therapeutic Recreational Services as well as being a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor.

Kim started riding horses around the age of five. She grew up with dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs and for the past 14 years, she worked as a Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist (CTRS). With her background, it was a natural step for her to bring animals into her practice as a CTRS at Animal Assisted Therapy Services in Milford, CT and Island Dolphin Care in Key Largo, FL. When she moved back to Connecticut in 2018, she set her sights on a professional place in the field of therapeutic horsemanship.

“I am very fortunate to have an amazing family! In fact, my family is the reason I decided to move back to Connecticut after more than a decade of working with dolphins in a therapeutic program. I also have a feisty 3-year-old mini dachshund who keeps me very busy! It is important to keep my own horsemanship skills sharp, and I do so by leasing a horse named Dreamer.”

Kim joined the High Hopes’ team in June 2019.

“I am fascinated with the unique relationship between humans and animals in our lives. Animals have a way of reaching humans and fostering a connection to something meaningful. That connection often opens a door to a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I have found this is especially true with our participants who have difficulty connecting with others. High Hopes also helps a lot of people who struggle with anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. Learning new riding skills and progressing to more independent riding can be incredibly powerful. The look of pride on the faces of our High Hopes participants says it all!”