ABOUT EQUINE THERAPY
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP): A Unique Therapeutic Approach
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is at the heart of our healing process. Based on the globally recognized, and evidence-based Eagala Model, our EAP program involves structured, ground-based interactions between clients and horses, facilitated by a licensed mental health professional and a certified equine specialist.
- Individual Sessions: Clients participate in one-on-one therapy sessions where they interact with horses to address personal trauma and grief issues. These sessions help clients develop trust, build emotional resilience, and gain insight into their feelings through non-verbal communication with horses.
- Group Sessions: In addition to individual therapy, we offer group sessions that foster community support and shared healing experiences. Clients benefit from the group dynamic and therapeutic interactions with horses, helping them feel less isolated in their struggles.
Why Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy Works for Trauma and Grief:
- Non-Verbal Communication and Immediate Feedback: Horses are highly sensitive to human emotions and provide immediate, honest feedback. This unique ability helps clients who may struggle to verbalize their trauma gain deeper self-awareness and learn to regulate their emotions effectively.
- Regulation of Arousal Levels: Being around horses can promote a calming effect, helping clients manage symptoms like hyper vigilance and anxiety associated with PTSD.
- Metaphoric Learning: Interactions with horses allow clients to explore their trauma in a safe, contained environment, using metaphors to reflect on their experiences and develop coping strategies.
- Building Trust and Safety: The therapeutic relationship with horses helps trauma survivors rebuild trust and learn to establish healthy boundaries.
- Empirical Evidence: Research supports the effectiveness of EAP in reducing PTSD symptoms, anxiety, and depression, and improving social functioning and overall well being.