Equine (Horse) Assisted Psychotherapy, EAP

Equine (Horse) Assisted Therapy, EAT.

        Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) & Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT) use horses as tools for emotional growth and learning.

        EAP is an emerging field in which horses are used as a tool for emotional growth and learning. EAP is a collaborative effort between a therapist and a horse professional. The emphasis of EAP is not on horse riding, in fact 90% of the work takes place on the ground. The focus of EAP is on the experience of the client as they participate in a specially designed activity. The horses are used as part of the activity which requires the client to use non-verbal communication, problem solving skills, creative thinking, and general awareness of their physical and emotional state. EAP has proven to be a powerful tool in addressing relational, mental health, and developmental issues. 

        Rather than focusing on horsemanship skills or teaching clients about horses, most of the activities are built around fostering self-thought, problem solving, assertiveness, creative thinking, confidence building, self-esteem enhancement and taking responsibility. Creative thinking and problem-solving skills emerge as participants engage in activities involving horses.

All activities are facilitate by a trained professionals. Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT) is provided by a horse professional and/or a trained therapist. Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is always facilitated by a licensed Therapist and a Horse professional both certified by Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) www.eagala.org .