There is something about
the gentle wisdom in a
horse's eye that can put
even the most troubled
soul at peace.
What is Equine Assisted Psychotherapy?
Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT) is a professional, innovative and experiential approach to therapy that incorporates horses into the therapeutic process. This approach may be combined with physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy or mental health including psychology, social work, counselling and psychotherapy.
As such it is offered by registered therapists and mental health practitioners with specialized training (ie. psychotherapists, social workers, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech and language pathologists). Equine related activities in therapy may be on the ground or on horseback, depending on the goal.
Why Horses?
Horses live in the present moment in awareness and direct contact with the world around them. They are very reactive to subtle changes in their environments and within their herd. They respond immediately through their body and energy.
When it comes to relationships with humans, a horse will respond to each person uniquely, just as it does with members of its herd, providing immediate feedback and often mirroring the persons emotions and energy through their own behaviour. This provides a rich opportunity for learning, body and self awareness and emotional regulation and how to communicate effectively.
Horses have a natural ability like many other animals to give people unconditional acceptance. Because of their superior statue and commanding presence they are also very effective at teaching people to be present in the moment. They teach people to trust other living beings as well as themselves. They bring out the resilience in people in response to life's inevitable stressors and challenges.
Certifications
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
(EAGALA)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
(EMDR)
Mindfulness and
Mediation
Cognitive Behaviour
Therapy
(CBT)