A soulful journey: my wife and I recently had the profound pleasure of visiting and meeting the remarkable Andrea, along with her magnificent horses, Red and Flash. This was an experience that left an indelible mark on my heart and soul. From the moment my wife and I stepped onto the ranch, we were enveloped in a sense of serenity and warmth, thanks largely to Andrea's welcoming demeanor. Her passion and deep connection with her horses were evident from the outset. Andrea has an extraordinary ability to communicate the spirit and essence of the ranch, immediately making us feel like part of her extended family. The horses, Red and Flash, were nothing short of spectacular. Andrea introduced us to them with such grace, sharing insights into their personalities and histories, which enriched our interaction. The time spent with Red and Flash was profoundly introspective and spiritual. Andrea guided us through exercises designed to foster a deeper understanding and connection with these majestic animals. It was as if we were communicating on a level beyond words, feeling their gentle souls and understanding their silent wisdom. This was not merely an opportunity to witness the horses' beauty but a chance to bond and develop a connection that felt ancient and ethereal. Andrea's ranch is more than just a place; it feels like a sanctuary for both horses and humans alike. Her dedication to creating a spiritual haven for connecting with these incredible creatures was palpable throughout our stay. The setting, enveloped by nature's beauty, served as the perfect backdrop for this transformative experience. What made this visit truly special was Andrea's intuitive ability to understand and respect our personal journey. She was not just a guide but a facilitator of an experience that allowed my wife and me to engage with our innermost selves and discover a sense of peace and connection that is often elusive in everyday life. In conclusion, meeting Andrea and her beloved horses, Red and Flash, was an unforgettable experience that left us both enriched and at peace. It was a day filled with introspection, spiritual growth, and the forging of incomparable bonds. I wholeheartedly recommend this magical interaction to anyone seeking a transformative adventure. The Smarty Pants Ranch is not just a place to visit but a place to embrace with your heart and soul. read more

It's taken a second for me to find the right words. I'm a 52 year old very privileged white woman who's obsessed over and ridden horses my entire life, from trail-riding to jumper competitions, up and down the West coast. I've also done quite a bit of therapy, individual to group to week-long retreats. So how did I miss it? How did I miss the brilliant energy of the horse that could help me tap into my intuition and truth with such clarity that it was simultaneously shocking and extraordinarily beautiful? I've been so busy guiding a horse all these years, that I didn't think to stop and let the horse guide me. Mind blown. What a gift Andrea Gaines is to the world. The minute I saw her, I felt completely safe, immersed in the stunning beauty of this magical place she and her husband have created. She's knowledgable and strong, while vulnerable, open, gentle, thoughtful and kind. Watching her follow her instincts and intuition allowed me to more easily follow mine. She was clear about what she was there to do, help me explore the unknown with these creatures that mirror back to us exactly what we need, when we're ready to listen. And if we're truly open, we see it, we feel it, we know it deep inside and something changes in us. We get closer to our inner light and essence, the pure magic we were when we entered this world. Who we were before being beaten down by whatever it was, our gift, to still be here on Earth to do our best to overcome, learn, evolve, grow, thrive, teach and give back. I landed at Andrea's in the most serendipitous way, thanks to an astonishing string of people who led me there. My goal is to spend the next part of my life giving back, helping people heal from trauma, helping people find the clarity and empathy they need to do the same. It's a chain reaction, and this world desperately needs us all to contribute. Thank you so much, Andrea, and thank you sweet Red and Flash, the best guides I've encountered in this life. Don't walk, RUN, to see Andrea and her boys on their beautiful farm in Ojai. read more

It's taken a second for me to find the right words. I'm a 52 year old very privileged white woman who's obsessed over and ridden horses my entire life, from trail-riding to jumper competitions, up and down the West coast. I've also done quite a bit of therapy, individual to group to week-long retreats. So how did I miss it? How did I miss the brilliant energy of the horse that could help me tap into my intuition and truth with such clarity that it was simultaneously shocking and extraordinarily beautiful? I've been so busy guiding a horse all these years, that I didn't think to stop and let the horse guide me. Mind blown. What a gift Andrea Gaines is to the world. The minute I saw her, I felt completely safe, immersed in the stunning beauty of this magical place she and her husband have created. She's knowledgable and strong, while vulnerable, open, gentle, thoughtful and kind. Watching her follow her instincts and intuition allowed me to more easily follow mine. She was clear about what she was there to do, help me explore the unknown with these creatures that mirror back to us exactly what we need, when we're ready to listen. And if we're truly open, we see it, we feel it, we know it deep inside and something changes in us. We get closer to our inner light and essence, the pure magic we were when we entered this world. Who we were before being beaten down by whatever it was, our gift, to still be here on Earth to do our best to overcome, learn, evolve, grow, thrive, teach and give back. I landed at Andrea's in the most serendipitous way, thanks to an astonishing string of people who led me there. My goal is to spend the next part of my life giving back, helping people heal from trauma, helping people find the clarity and empathy they need to do the same. It's a chain reaction, and this world desperately needs us all to contribute. Thank you so much, Andrea, and thank you sweet Red and Flash, the best guides I've encountered in this life. Don't walk, RUN, to see Andrea and her boys on their beautiful farm in Ojai. read more

Magical. Amazing. Poignant. Life expanding. The skill, wisdom and kindness Andrea and her horses, Red and Flash have is unlike anything I've ever experienced. I showed up looking for help with my love/fear relationship with horses and within a short time of Andrea and I being in with the two horses, Red laid down with eyes at half mast and Flash was on the either side yawning. They made themselves vulnerable and calm, creating a space for me and my body to become aware of and relish in this space of safety and calm presence they created for me. Andrea is very intentional and thoughtful with her questions and guidance. I received wonderful insight from the horses while laying down with one as he was in and out of sleep and later on, the other one teaching my body what it feels like to have a horse have your back with him directly behind me, practically resting his head onto mine. By the time I left, I not only had an entirely new relationship with horses and tools to use when fear around horses might arise again, but it all also beautifully translates to other areas of my life as well. I felt such freedom. On top of all of this, Andrea takes in the moment pictures and video for you to have as well as she sent me links to a variety of wonderful resources that pertained to things we discussed. To have the opportunity to work with Andrea and her horses amongst the incredible energies of Sedona is such a blessing and unlike anything I've experienced anywhere else. PLEASE, give yourself this gift that will last within you, well beyond the actual time you spend with Andrea, Red and Flash. read more

I honestly can't say enough about the incredible experience my family had with Andrea and her horses, Flash and Red. From the moment we arrived, Andrea made us feel right at home--so warm, friendly, and genuinely kind. It was clear she has a deep love for her horses, and that energy really radiated through the entire experience. My girls, ages 9 and 11, were a little nervous at first, but Andrea's gentle guidance put them at ease. She taught us all how to connect with Flash and Red in such a special way. We spent time brushing them, playing with them, and even just lying down next to them. Flash and Red, were so patient and loving, and I could see my girls' confidence growing as they interacted with them. I strongly recommend meeting Andrea and her horses to anyone looking for a unique, meaningful experience. Whether you're a horse lover or just want to try something new, you won't regret it. Thank you, Andrea, for sharing your beautiful soul and your wonderful horses with us. We can't wait to see you again next time we visit Sedona. read more

My husband, young adult daughter and I had a very special experience with Andrea, Red, and Flash. Andrea's love and understanding of the horses was so evident; it immediately put us at ease, knowing that we were in a safe place. We were enchanted by the horses and loved how Andrea was able to help us connect with them in a way that was personal to our own circumstances. To my surprise, my husband--who has never spent time with horses and who does not call himself "spiritual"--was probably the one who was most affected by the experience, as it helped him reflect on how he wants to approach his upcoming retirement. He says that he'll think back on his experience with Red and Flash often, as he navigates his way in this new stage of life. We'll definitely return someday if we're in the area again; it would be meaningful to experience it at a different time, when we're dealing with different life circumstances. We highly recommend this unique and enlightening experience! read more

I've never spent much time around horses, but my experience with Andrea Gaines at Smarty Pants Ranch in Sedona was nothing short of extraordinary. Horses are deeply intuitive beings, and I was in awe of how effortlessly they attuned to what I needed--offering me a sense of safety, grounding, and reflection without a single word spoken. Andrea is a true guide, facilitating an unspoken conversation between the soul of the horse and the soul within us. Through her gift, Shanti and I uncovered messages that resonated deeply--both as individuals and as a couple. The insights we received were powerful, unexpected, and profoundly moving. Feeling immense gratitude for this experience and for Andrea's wisdom. If you ever find yourself in Sedona, I cannot recommend booking a session with her enough. It's more than just horse therapy--it's a journey into the depths of yourself, reflected back through the gentle and knowing presence of these incredible animals. read more

I'm a horse gal...AND, this equine facilitated learning workshop with Andrea and her horses was phenomenal...as I watched each of us process...my prominent thought was, "These horses are oracles"... like horse therapy, as I searched inside for answers to my current uncertainties, the energy these horses brought gave me clarity unlike when I struggle alone. It's as if the answers, comfort, or whatever I needed just flowed from the horse to me. And I saw the same thing happen with each of the sisters that worked fiercely, bravely, lovingly on their lives. 3 of the participants were repeats. I understand why. The enlightenment, epiphanies, equine therapy and healing brought through were so much more efficient, effective and deeper than any talk therapy or phone coaching can ever be. I STRONGLY suggest signing up for an equine therapy session with Andrea at Horse, Heart and Connection. Ojai, California read more

As I participated in the group Horse Heart Connection retreat, I witnessed Andrea's personal attention and profound intuition when working with individuals and the horses. She gently and authentically guides the individuals to connect within themselves when meeting her Horses, Flash and Red, thus creating an effortless flow in relationship with the horses. She imparts a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and grace in her practice, and anyone would benefit from time with her and her horse guides. Thank you Andrea for the profound opportunity to more deeply surrender into my spirit through the horse medicine. My heart unlocked and I surrendered into an even great presence of safety, empowerment, and self-acceptance as I basked in the love Flash showed me and witnessed in me. I'm beyond grateful and appreciative of your horses and you. read more

My equine experience with Andrea truly exceeded my expectations, and my expectations were already high after hearing how much a friend loved it. I didn't expect the depth of emotion that would come up, or how powerfully the horses (and Andrea's reflections) would open my heart and bring clarity to things I've been carrying for a long time. Andrea creates an incredibly safe, intuitive, and insightful environment. Her ability to guide the experience and reflect what the horses are communicating is remarkable. It felt deeply authentic and surprisingly clarifying. Of everything I did during my time in Sedona, this was the most impactful experience by far. read more

My 9 year old and I both attended a session with Andrea, Red and Flash and immediately felt so at home, cared for and comfortable. We were able to drop in with Andrea before visiting with Red and Flash, and appreciated the meditative approach to being with the horses. To hug a horse, brush a horse and simply be with the horses was incredible. In return we felt so much love, acceptable and I watched my 9 year old grow in confidence within the session. We highly recommend this experience to anyone even slightly curious about it. The property, the horses, the care and kindness of Andrea is not to be missed!! read more

I suggest visiting Andrea Gaines for the "Horse Heart & Connection Experience". My husband and I had a magical experience on a Sunday afternoon in early May. Her two horses, Flash & Red, were AWESOME! They hung with us the whole 2 hours letting us soak in their POSITIVE ENERGY! Andrea was an AMAZING facilitator! She asked us the right questions at the right time to help us move past any negative beliefs. Truly an experience you don't want to miss. The pictures she took were fantastic - we have memories to cherish for a very long time! read more

Andrea leads peace-filled solo and small group sessions (my wife did a group session) on her ranch minutes from downtown Ojai. No horse riding is involved; it's more like a therapy session. I didn't know horses could communicate in this way - I had never even heard of Equine Facilitated Learning, but now I'm a believer. Working with horses therapeutically is also a special way to connect to the nature of the Ojai Valley. And to work with horses! We would recommend this to any other locals in Ojai and for people visiting the area. read more

I've been to Horse, Heart Connection twice and both times, the experiences and feelings/emotions I had during and afterward were very powerful. Andrea is a fantastic facilitator and her horses, Red and Flash, are the most loving, kind, gentle and fun beings you could ever hope to meet. I'd highly recommend this. The cost is very reasonable...well worth the benefits. I've done both a group and private session (the private one was with my husband and cousin) and enjoyed both very much and we look forward to going back! read more

Horses are healers. I could not have imagined a better experience. From the moment Andrea greeted me with her warm smile at the entrance of the smarty pants ranch, I knew I was in for a treat. I spent two hours unraveling my biggest fears and left with a completely different outlook on life. As for my most beautiful Red and Flash you are the gifts I have been looking for. Red you are an old soul and I could feel your wisdom in my bones. Flash you showed me my truth. You are wiser than anyone will ever know. read more

From the moment we arrived, Andrea's warmth and the stunning red rock backdrop made the experience feel magical. A sense of peace washed over us as we met the horses--Red chose me, and Flash chose my husband. Andrea's intuition and the horses' gentle energy created a deeply healing and insightful experience. My husband, who's usually intimidated by horses, left with a new friend and a huge smile. If you're looking for true connection, peace, and a little bit of magic, this is the place! read more

I have been out to Smarty Pants Ranch 4 times now and have found each visit to offer something different and unique. I have been able to build my person confidence in regards to boundaries and holding my own space. Each visit I have gotten more comfortable with being around the horses. It is a great space to be supported while self discovery is unfolding. I felt very safe and it has been lots of fun!!! The Ranch is beautiful. I am very Grateful for the experience. Thanks read more

Truly an unforgettable experience! The horses, Andrea, the location, the company... it just all magically clicks together when you arrive at Smarty Pants Ranch. I felt a soothing and a comfortable quietness that lingered on for the rest of my day. If you're looking for a place to retune your frequencies and earth your soul you will find it there, if you are looking for a moment of peace, ease and connection you will find it there... I can't wait to visit again! :) read more

My adult daughter and I were so excited to share this experience and we were not disappointed! Andrea is insightful and caring and Flash and Red were so beautiful and intuitive. It's amazing what animals can give to us. This is part meditation, part therapy and so much more. It's hard to describe. We highly recommend. We will never forget our experience and we hope one day to return. Thank you Andrea, Flash & Red! Your in our hearts forever. read more