Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
Why Horses?
Horses present opportunities to learn about ourselves, strengthen confidence, trust and the ability to make healthy connections.
Horses are herd animals and are interested in relationships and connection. They are also prey animals, so they need trust to feel safe and secure. Horses have the ability to tune into our emotions and respond to them. Building a relationship with a horse based on trust and respect is key to connecting with their empathetic abilities.
Horses are herd animals and are interested in relationships and connection. They are also prey animals, so they need trust to feel safe and secure. Horses have the ability to tune into our emotions and respond to them. Building a relationship with a horse based on trust and respect is key to connecting with their empathetic abilities.
An Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) Session can include observations over the fence and in paddocks, leading, grooming and quiet time spent in the presence of horses.
Potential benefits of EAP
- Reduce Stress and Anxiety
- Improve Social Skills
- Learn and Improve Assertive Communication
- Increase Emotional Awareness
- Increase Self-Esteem and Confidence
- Decrease Impulsivity and Strengthen Problem Solving Skills
- Improve Trust in Self and Trust in Others
Ecotherapy
Ecotherapy, or Nature therapy involves connecting with nature to improve emotional, mental and physical wellbeing. Ecotherapy activities may include sensory grounding, nature meditation, nature journaling and nature walks.
Potential Benefits of Ecotherapy
- Stress Reduction
- Reduce Symptoms of Anxiety, Depression and Post-Traumatic Stress
- Increase Sense of Connection
- Increase Mindfulness
- Reduce Fatigue and Improved Attention
- Increase Creativity and Problem Solving Skills