Equine Therapy

• Equine Therapy

Description:
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) incorporates horses experientially for emotional growth and learning. It is a collaborative effort between a licensed therapist and a horse professional working with the clients and horses to address treatment goals. Because of its intensity and effectiveness, it is considered a short-term, or “brief” approach. EAP is experiential in nature. This means that participants learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses, and then processing (or discussing) feelings, behaviors, and patterns. This approach has been compared to the ropes courses used by therapists, treatment facilities, and human development courses around the world. But EAP has the added advantage of utilizing horses, dynamic and powerful living beings. (https://www.eagala.org/)

Who it may help:
EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, families, and groups. EAP addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, abuse issues, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs. (https://www.eagala.org/)

Who May Perform Equine Assisted Therapies:
EAGALA promotes that EAP sessions are conducted with a team of a clinical professionals and a horse professional. When seeking psychotherapy services, always verify that a licensed therapist is involved.  Please research and monitor that organizations and individuals associating themselves with EAGALA abide by this Code and inform us of any violations of that Code.

Where to find an Equine Assisted Practitioner:
Go to https://www.eagala.org/ then to “Resources” then to “Find a Practitioner in your Area”. or www.cbeip.org

Another resource is https://www.pathintl.org/  Select “Find a Center” and add your state and it will list Equine Therapists in your area.

Another new option is Operation Unbridled https://www.horseshelp.org/

Horses for Heroes HorsesforHeroes.org Skill-set Restructuring Program™ free to Post 9/11 veterans and active military using the science of Neuroplasticity. They facilitate building your relationship with horses and combining your military background and cowboy culture, through horsemanship, both on the ground and horseback along with ranch skills.

Will insurance cover Equine Therapy:
There is a possibility that Equine Therapy may be a billable service when provided by a licensed mental health practitioner. Another resource for certified Equine Therapists is www.okcorralseries.com

Note: VFU provides this comprehensive view of healing techniques for your convenience, but does not endorse nor recommend any specific technique. VFU does not guarantee results or outcomes from any of the materials listed on this website.