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What is EAP?
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
clinical professionals need to be involved for it to be considered "psychotherapy".
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, assertiveness, 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,
families, and groups. EAP addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioral
issues, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, abuse
issues, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs.
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Eagala
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