We Listen, Act, and Transform
Hello and welcome to Lead Changes Recovery. I have been active in my work as an addictions counselor since 2015. I am a certified SAP and certified EAGALA as a horse specialist and mental health professional. I am also an Agriculture Education Instructor with 23 years of experience. Born and raised in Montana in the life of agriculture, livestock and the outdoors. I am married to a law enforcement officer of 22 years. As a family we also operate and Shire horse breeding program with lessons, judging and clinic services under Big Sky Shires. We also breed and show Hampshire and Dorset Sheep with our son under the name 7 Mile Hampshires.
About Us
At Lead Changes Recovery & Equine Therapy Center, we believe true healing begins when people rediscover their worth, rebuild trust, and find the courage to step forward with confidence.
Our Why
We exist to create a safe place where individuals can heal, grow, and find hope. By walking alongside people in their recovery journey, we guide them to reconnect with themselves, others, and the world around them. Every session is built on compassion, respect, and the belief that change is possible for anyone willing to take the first step.
What We Do
Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) Services
As a DOT SAP provider, we help employees navigate Department of Transportation (DOT) and non-DOT return-to-duty processes with professionalism, clarity, and care. Our SAP services are designed to ensure compliance while prioritizing personal accountability and long-term recovery, while supporting them as they get back to work.
Equine-Assisted Therapy
Horses are powerful partners in healing. Through guided equine-assisted therapy sessions, clients learn trust, communication, boundaries, and self-awareness in a hands-on, experiential way. Horses mirror human emotions, offering honest feedback that leads to breakthroughs in personal growth, leadership, and recovery.
Addictions Counseling
We provide compassionate, evidence-based counseling for individuals and families impacted by addiction. Our approach combines clinical expertise with relational support, enabling clients to uncover the root causes of their issues, develop resilience, and create sustainable recovery plans.
Our Approach
Healing is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why we combine professional counseling, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and equine therapy to meet clients where they are. Every individual is unique, and we design personalized pathways that honor each person’s story, strengths, and goals.
Who We Serve
Individuals seeking recovery from addiction - First Responders, Youth to Adults
Employees and employers navigating the SAP process
Families affected by substance use
Community members looking for growth through equine-assisted therapy with their mental health professional
Team Building and Leadership Workshops
Education and Training in Substance Use, Safety, and Trends
We work with clients and families who are involved with CPS and the Courts.
Why Horses, Why Us
The name Lead Changes comes from horsemanship, where a horse shifts its leading leg mid-stride. Just like in life, those changes can be difficult but necessary for moving forward smoothly. At Lead Changes Recovery & Equine Therapy Center, we help people make their own lead changes—transformations that allow them to live with purpose, freedom, and hope.
Leanne Hoagland
Counseling