Equine Assisted Learning and Therapy
Through guided interactions with horses and an expert horse practitioner (and where necessary a licensed mental health professional) clients learn powerful new skills and develop existing ones, which can be implemented into their daily routine, whether that be at school, the work place, in relationships or their general home life. Our sessions are experiential in nature, encouraging the development of life skills and growth whilst offering a safe space to talk through difficult emotions and feelings that may arise. Our sessions allow clients to achieve goals, however big or small through learning to work with horses. Through that interaction we are teaching skills that help improve quality of life such as:
- Trust
- Connection
- Self-Regulation
- Self-Confidence
- Self-Esteem
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Leadership
- Assertiveness
- impulse control
Sessions will consist of activities with the horses such as brushing, leading, obstacle courses and loose observation. The client is then invited to reflect on what they have observed during the session. All sessions will be tailored to the client's goals and objectives
Who Can Benefit?
Our Service is available to young people and adults over the age of 14.
Equine Assisted Learning and Therapy can be beneficial for people with:
- ASD
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Addiction
- PTSD
- Eating Disorders
- Low self-Esteem
Why Horses?
Horses are prey animals, they have a need to feel safe in their herd and seek leadership. In addition, horses are highly aware of their surroundings and very much 'in the moment'. Through building a trusting relationship, where a horse will willingly follow instruction, the participant learns horsemanship skills, receives instant feedback and gains confidence through achieving the desired response. Working with a horse who is happy to build this partnership is hugely rewarding and empowering for anyone, but especially for those who can benefit from confidence and relationship building activities.
Oxytocin levels, also known as the bonding hormone, increase during interactions between humans and animals. This triggers an increase of trust towards others, lowers fear and anxiety, improves pain management, enhances learning and empathy towards self and others.
The non-verbal communication between you and the horse promotes a quiet, peaceful time of self-reflection where there is no judgement. This strengthens the emotional bond that is created between you both.
Horses are large, powerful, incredibly sensitive and in-tune animals, and often mirror our behaviour or emotions, even the ones we think we can hide away or may not even be aware of ourselves. They reflect our behaviour by the way they interact with us, which allows us to focus on what we project outwardly. When we are aware of the thoughts or behaviour patterns that we present, and address those issues, the horse’s behaviour will noticeably change towards us.
The size and power of a horse is naturally intimidating to most, so accomplishing an activity involving the horse can be incredibly rewarding, in spite of those fears, it creates confidence and boosts self-esteem.
