What is EAP and EAL?

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.

Not all programs or individuals who use horses practice Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.  For one, licensed (in the U.S.) and properly qualified (outside the U.S.) mental health professionals need to be involved.  The focus of EAP is not riding or horsemanship.  The focus of EAP involves setting up ground activities involving the horses which will require the client or group to apply certain skills.  Non-verbal communication, asse rtiveness, creative thinking and problem-solving, leadership, work, taking responsibility, teamwork and relationships, confidence, and attitude are several examples of the tools utilized and developed by EAP.

EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, famlies, and groups.  EAP addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, PTSD, substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs.

Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is similar to EAP but where the focus is on learning or educational goals.  EAL still involves the team of mental health professional and horse professional working with the clients and horses.  The focus however is on education and learning specific skills as defined by the individual or group, such as improved product sales for a company, leadership skills for a school group, or resiliency training for our military warriors.

The potential applications for both EAP and EAL are limitless!  For more information on the possibilities, contact us at EAGALA

Call Suzanne Carter, 720-540-6738 to set up your appointment