EQUINE THERAPY

Equine Assisted Therapy is a healing treatment that combines mental health professionals and therapeutic horses. Individuals are supported and guided in learning more about themselves, working through difficulties, and improving communication and relationship skills through being with the horse, grooming the horse or other beneficial techniques.

Horses value and respond to authentic connections, so we are encouraged to feel safe and embrace all of who we are in their presence. The horse’s heart is four times the size of a human heart, we only have to stand in their presence for twenty minutes, and our heartbeat synchronises with theirs. Horses are experts at reading body language, perceiving human emotions, and responding to us as unique individuals. This special relationship provides an opportunity for people to learn more about themselves and patterns in the relationships they form.

There is evidence that supports equine-assisted therapy sessions and have been effective in treating individuals with personal and psychological concerns, including:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Eating disorders

• Bullying – both for the committer and the victim

• Substance abuse and addictions

• Depression and anxiety

• Stress

• Autism and Aspergers

• ADD and ADHD

• Relationship difficulties

• Attachment issues, including adoption adjustment

• Low self-esteem

• Negative behavioural issues.

The programs and sessions provide you with an authentic way to heal, learn and grow as an individual. The techniques are designed to guide and support you in the therapeutic process so that when you leave, you feel clear and have gained valuable tools to assist you in your life.