Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy Sessions at Helping Hands Healing Sanctuary

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is a form of experiential therapy where clients learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses.

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How Does It Work?

We partner with horses for many reasons. Horses are prey animals, so they are acutely aware of the people in their space, and what those people are bringing into the arena. Horses have learned to survive by becoming excellent at reading intention. They understand us without us needing to explain things. Horses are herd animals, so they are adept at transmitting that information through body language. This provides clients a fascinating mirror into their own lives, making their issues visible and tangible. Once they see this problem/behavior more objectively, they can make a positive change. After the change is made in the arena, it helps them make the change in their lives. EAP helps the client gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their world. Horses offer unconditional love and a secure attachment, as well as immediate feedback to the emotions that clients bring into the arena. Through their natural skills and propensity for eye contact, touch and listening, our horses embody healthy attachment, and they give us so many opportunities to learn about healthy attachment and regulation. The human members of the facilitation team comes from a place of curiosity, acceptance, and openness that allows clients to explore and discover their own solutions in the arena without shame or fear.

Therapeutic Program Details and Benefits

Eagala Model

We use the Eagala model for our equine sessions, which means that we fit the following criteria. We use a team approach that includes a mental health professional in all equine sessions. All experiences in sessions are ground-based (no riding). Our sessions are client-centered. The standards for our work are upheld by a code of ethics.

Versatility

We work with a wide variety of mental health issues, and we work with a variety of populations. We work with individuals and families. We also offer group therapy sessions with our equines.

Alternative

Our modality can help people who are resistant to talk therapy or other forms of therapy. The experiential and external aspects of this modality increases emotional safety in sessions, and provides a unique experience.

Animal Welfare

The animals and horses in our sessions are always loose, so they do not have harnesses or halters on. This allows them to make decisions in the space, take care of themselves, and be their most natural selves.

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Therapy Programs

Discover answers to common questions about Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and learn more about our equine therapy program, and how you and your family could benefit from our services.

We've curated this FAQ section to provide clear insights and help you better understand the transformative power of equine therapy.

Who can benefit from EAP?

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) works with mental dysfunctions. Mental problems such as anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, grief, complex trauma, relational issues, anger, PTSD, eating disorders, etc. can all be explored through equine-assisted psychotherapy. Anyone who is seeking help with mental health issues, relationship issues, or personal development can benefit from EAP!

Who is not served by EAP?

We do not offer services to treat any physical dysfunction. Sometimes there is confusion about the different types of equine therapy services available. At Helping Hands Healing Sanctuary, we welcome clients with physical disabilities or dysfunctions, but we do not offer services to treat any physical dysfunction. We provide equine-assisted psychotherapy, and all of the work we do is on the ground. There is no riding involved in our services, and so this is not a therapeutic riding program. It is important to note though that we do not provide occupational therapy, therapeutic movement, or therapeutic riding at our facility.

Does EAP involve riding?

Nope! EAP does not involve riding. We provide mental health treatment and personal growth services, as opposed to physical therapy or hypnotherapy. No riding is involved, and there are no horse skills necessary to participate. Our activities are 100% on the ground and clients interact with our horses through unique experiential activities.

How can I start equine-assisted therapy at Helping Hands Healing Sanctuary?

Please use the form on our website to contact us, and a member of our team will be in touch with you.

Connect and Collaborate:
Referral Opportunities

We collaborate with healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations to offer accessible therapy options. If you're a professional looking to refer someone to our programs, please connect with us here. You can also use this form if you are self-referring or if you would like to set up your family member with equine sessions at Helping Hands Healing Sanctuary.

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