What is EAP?

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy is experiential therapy that uses horses for growth, learning, and healing. It is facilitated by a licensed therapist and a horse professional who work together with the client and the horses to achieve therapeutic goals. The clients learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses and then processing or discussing feelings, behaviors, observations, patterns and thoughts. The focus is not riding or horsemanship. EAP focuses on setting up activities on the ground that involve horses and require the clients to use certain skills. Clients learn and practice verbal and non-verbal communication, assertiveness, creative thinking, problem-solving, leadership, responsibility, teamwork, and confidence.

EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has a powerful impact on individuals, families, and groups. EAP can address a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioral issues, attention problems, substance abuse, eating disorders, abuse issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, anger issues, poor impulse control, relationship problems and communication difficulties.

Further Information at www.eagala.org.