We believe in utilizing the resources we have to promote health, wellness and life-enriching experiences through the equine, farm, and natural environment. The presence and healing of horses can offer an antidote to the disconnection in our lives today. A working farm is a model of meaningful occupation and continual stewardship of the land and animals in our care. The surrounding fields and forest offer an outdoor classroom for holistic education. All of these community programs are supported by credentialed instructors/guides as well as occupational therapists promoting inclusion, education, and overall wellbeing.
Services Provided
Equine-Assisted Learning & Wellness
Carlisle Academy offers wellness opportunities in the form of ground-based (unmounted) equine-assisted learning programs. We use the tranquil farm environment to create a sensory-rich experience where all participants can benefit from the enrichment and personal growth that comes with being in the healing presence of horses and participating in individual or group-based activities which provide insight, immediate feedback, and valuable respite from the outside world.
Please read here for more information on group and private sessions.
Wellness Retreats
Our Wellness Retreats are unmounted, equine-facilitated and nature-based wellness programs using the tranquility of the living-farm environment for respite and renewal. These half-day retreats will help participants gather their thoughts, make space to relax, and take positive steps for themselves in the structure of a supportive group, led by nationally trained, credentialed facilitators in this modality.
Please read here for more information on group retreats.
Working Farmscape Program
The Working Farmscape Program is a vocational training course using horticulture and animal husbandry to provide practical farm-based skills training and development. The program partners with agencies and schools working with a small group of teens or adults, including Veterans and individuals involved with vocational training or rehabilitation. This program is led by Carlisle’s credentialed instructors, master gardeners, and supported by occupational therapy interns focused on meaningful work and hands-on experiential learning in a restorative farm setting. Participants have the opportunity to care for horses and livestock, rotationally graze sheep, tend to chickens, and perform basic farm and barn chores.
Please read here for more information.
Farm-ABLE
FarmABLE is an inclusive experiential learning program for youth. It is intended for students of all abilities and designed as an immersion experience into the rich educational opportunities that naturally happen on the farm. Participants engage in meaningful activities, gaining an appreciation for the natural world and learning the importance of being good stewards of the land and animals.
Please read here more for information.
Farm-WELL
FarmWELL is an inclusive farm-based wellness program for adults. Taught by credentialed Carlisle staff and master gardeners, it is designed for adults to soak in the healing farm environment and participate in wellness activities appropriate for their interests and abilities. Participants engage in learning modules that follow the seasonal rhythms of nature and the farm environment.
Please read here more for information.
Community Yoga on the Farm
These classes will give you opportunities to experience your body in new ways through various styles of yoga (including Vinyasa flow, Hatha, Yin, Classical, and Pilates/Yoga fusion). No experience necessary! These classes are designed for ALL levels of practitioner, from the completely new to the more experienced yogi, there is something for everyone!
Download the flyer for more information.
Sensory Family Camp
The Sensory Family Camp is an occupational therapy program designed to provide a sensory-rich group experience for individuals with sensory processing challenges. During the 2-hour summer camp, participants rotate through structured stations with an emphasis on transitions, sensory integration activities, socialization opportunities, and motor planning exercises addressing individualized goals and improving overall function, wellness, and self-efficacy. Families may participate in activities and provide overall support.
Download the flyer for more information.
Private Farm Tour
Explore Carlisle Academy at Spring Creek Farm for a private 1-hour farm tour to immerse yourself in the inner workings of running a sustainable and educational agricultural property. Meet the farm animals on the property and take some time to groom the horses and enjoy being in their calm presence. This experience is designed for visitors and is led by farm managers. It is dependent upon staff availability and seasonal conditions.
$100 per guest | $200 per family
For more information, contact the office at 207-985-0374, or email your inquiry to info@carlisleacademymaine.com.