Equine Assisted Therapy

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is an effective treatment approach that incorporates horses into therapy to assist individuals in overcoming various mental health challenges, including trauma, PTSD, depression, addiction, and behavioral issues. Through direct interaction with horses, clients can experience profound emotional healing and personal development.

EAP involves engaging in specific activities with horses, such as grooming, feeding, and ground exercises, rather than riding. These interactions help build trust, improve communication, and foster self-awareness, allowing clients to process emotions and confront obstacles in a supportive, non-verbal setting.

In EAP, a team consisting of mental health professionals and equine specialists collaborates to facilitate therapy sessions. The process involves experiential learning where clients engage with horses in a structured, guided way, promoting skills such as leadership, trust-building, and emotional regulation. The hands-on nature of the therapy allows clients to explore their feelings and gain insights in a setting that differs from traditional talk therapy.

The Eagala model is one of the most respected frameworks in equine therapy. This model ensures a structured, evidence-based approach where both mental health professionals and equine specialists work together to support the client. Eagala’s emphasis on collaboration creates a safe, effective environment for clients to engage with horses and gain emotional insight.

By participating in EAP under the Eagala model, clients undergo experiential learning that enhances emotional resilience, self-awareness, and coping skills. The combination of therapy and equine interaction provides a dynamic, transformative experience that helps clients foster long-term growth and healing.

Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is a dynamic, experiential approach that uses the powerful connection between horses and humans to foster personal growth and development. Through guided activities with horses, clients engage in hands-on experiences that enhance self-awareness, communication, leadership, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills. EAL provides a unique opportunity to explore behavior patterns, improve interpersonal dynamics, and develop a deeper understanding of oneself.

This approach is ideal for individuals, couples, or groups seeking to improve confidence, emotional resilience, and overall well-being. Unlike traditional therapeutic methods, EAL allows participants to engage in the learning process in a non-threatening, interactive environment, using the natural, non-judgmental presence of horses to mirror and guide the emotional and behavioral work.

For those seeking to strengthen leadership skills, enhance communication, or simply gain a greater sense of self, Equine Assisted Learning offers a powerful, transformative experience. It can be particularly beneficial for those seeking personal development, team building, or increased emotional intelligence without the use of a mental health clinician.