Horses are very much like humans in that they are social animals.  They have defined roles within their herds.  They would rather be with their peers.  They have distinct personalities, attitudes, and moods.  An approach that seems to work with one horse does not necessarily work with another.  At times they may seem stubborn and defiant.  They like to have fun.  As prey animals horses are naturally in tune with each other and their environment. They respond authentically while remaining fully present and grounded.

Horses are sensitive to non-verbal communication and respond to what messages the clients give them in the moment.  As a result, their responses begin to feel very familiar to the clients, namely just like how their spouses, children, friends, and co-workers respond, or how their addictions, fears, dreams, etc. play out in their lives.  The horses become very real symbols of these relationships and allow the clients the opportunity to work through how to change these aspects of their lives in an experiential, in-the-moment and emotionally safe method.  (taken from 8th edition of the Fundamentals of the Eagala Model book)

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy is a powerful and highly effective form of experiential therapy where you will interact with horses for personal insight and behavior change. No horse experience is needed.

For more information on the model of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy used please see eagala.org (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association). The Eagala model is the industry standard for professionally utilizing horses in psychotherapy. The model includes a licensed, credentialed mental health professional and a qualified equine specialist who structure sessions incorporating horses to effectively address the client’s treatment plan or learning goals.