Here at Haven For Healing we offer two different types of therapy through equine assistance. Equine therapy, also known as equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) or , Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is a therapeutic approach that involves interactions between individuals and horses to promote emotional growth, mental health, and physical well-being. These forms of therapy are facilitated by licensed mental health professionals in collaboration with equine specialists.
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is a specialized form of mental health therapy that involves guided interactions between clients and horses to address psychological and emotional challenges.
It is facilitated by a licensed mental health professional, an equine specialist and a horse. It is distinct from other forms of equine therapy in that it focuses specifically on psychological healing and mental health treatment.
In EAP, involves ground-based activities such as grooming, leading, observing, or interacting with the horse in a controlled setting. The horse's behavior and responses are used as a way to reflect the client's emotions, thoughts, and behavioral patterns, helping them gain insight and develop coping strategies.
Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) is an experiential, hands-on approach to personal development and education that involves structured interactions with horses. Unlike equine-assisted psychotherapy, which focuses on mental health treatment, EAL is designed to develop life skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence.
In EAL sessions, participants typically engage in ground-based activities with horses—such as grooming, leading, or obstacle-based tasks—under the guidance of a trained facilitator, often in collaboration with an equine professional. The focus is on how the individual or group interacts with the horse, rather than on the horse itself.
Equine therapy doesn’t replace traditional therapy, but it offers a compelling alternative or complement for those who benefit from movement, connection, and reflection outside a clinical setting. It’s especially powerful for trauma recovery, emotional regulation, and building self-awareness in a safe, nonjudgmental environment.
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