For incarcerated people and those transitioning back into society, traditional therapy models may often fall short. Many individuals in the justice system have experienced significant trauma, struggle with trust and emotional regulation, and find it difficult to engage in traditional talk therapy modalities. Equine-assisted psychotherapy provides a unique, experiential approach that supports healing and personal growth in ways that traditional methods cannot.
By allowing individuals to work with the horse in a structured but non-judgmental environment, equine psychotherapy helps develop emotional awareness, build healthy relationships, and foster a sense of accountability. The benefits extend beyond the emotional and psychological—this approach addresses both physical and mental well-being, providing a holistic method of rehabilitation.
With the right support, incarcerated people and those recently released can find new ways to process their experiences, regulate their emotions, and build meaningful lives. The Eagala Model is at the forefront of this work, offering a powerful alternative for justice-involved individuals seeking healing and transformation.
The Need for Alternative Therapeutic Approaches in the Justice System
Many individuals in the criminal justice system have a history of trauma, abuse, addiction, and mental health struggles. The traditional talk therapy model often fails to address these issues effectively for several reasons:
- Many justice-involved individuals have difficulty expressing emotions verbally.
- There is often deep-rooted distrust of authority figures, including therapists.
- Long-term incarceration can create detachment, emotional suppression, and a lack of personal agency.
Equine-assisted psychotherapy offers a different approach—one that does not rely on talking alone but instead allows participants to engage in a dynamic, physical, and mental process of self-discovery and growth.
How Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy Supports the Incarcerated and Formerly Incarcerated
1. Rebuilding Trust and Emotional Awareness
Many justice-involved individuals struggle with trust due to past trauma. When they work with the horse, they engage with a nonjudgmental, responsive being that mirrors human emotions honestly. Horses respond to authenticity, teaching participants to recognize and regulate their emotions in real time.
2. Developing Personal Responsibility and Accountability
Horses require clear communication and consistent behavior. Those participating in equine psychotherapy quickly learn that their actions and emotions impact their interactions. This helps individuals develop a sense of accountability, reinforcing the idea that personal choices have consequences.
3. Managing Stress and Emotional Regulation
Many incarcerated people experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and anger. Horses are highly attuned to emotional energy, meaning that individuals must regulate their own emotions to engage effectively. Learning to stay calm and focused while interacting with a horse translates into better emotional regulation in other aspects of life.
4. Improving Communication and Social Skills
Reintegrating into society requires strong interpersonal skills. Many formerly incarcerated individuals struggle with social reintegration after spending time in regimented environments where autonomy and open communication are limited. As a result, rebuilding relationships, navigating social norms, and establishing trust in everyday interactions can be challenging.
Equine-assisted psychotherapy helps individuals practice nonverbal and verbal communication in a safe environment, leading to improved relationships with peers, family members, and employers.
5. Restoring Confidence and Self-Worth
Incarceration can strip individuals of their confidence and personal identity. Successfully working with the horse, understanding its behavior, and forming a bond helps rebuild a sense of self-worth and competence.
The Eagala Model: A Ground-Based Approach
The Eagala Model provides a structured, professional framework for equine psychotherapy that is especially effective for those in the criminal justice system. Unlike other models, Eagala’s approach is:
- Entirely ground-based – There is no riding involved, allowing participants to interact with horses in a way that is safe, unrestricted, and focused on personal growth.
- Facilitated by a team of professionals – A mental health professional and an equine specialist work together with the horses as a third partner to create an effective therapeutic environment.
- Client-driven – There are no pre-scripted exercises. Instead, sessions are tailored to the individual’s needs, allowing them to engage at their own pace.
The Role of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy in Reentry Programs
The transition from incarceration back into society is often one of the most challenging phases for justice-involved individuals. Without support, many face overwhelming obstacles, leading to high rates of recidivism. Equine-assisted psychotherapy provides key benefits in reentry programs:
- Helps individuals process past trauma and develop coping skills.
- Encourages problem-solving and emotional resilience.
- Supports reintegration by building trust and social confidence.
- Reduces stress and anxiety associated with reentry.
- Justice-involved individuals who participate in equine-assisted psychotherapy often show significant improvements in emotional regulation, communication, and overall well-being, making them more prepared to navigate life after incarceration.
Expanding Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy in Correctional and Reentry Programs
While equine therapy is growing in popularity within correctional facilities and reentry programs, there is still a need for broader implementation. Mental health professionals and equine specialists who become certified in the Eagala Model can play a vital role in bringing this innovative therapy to incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals.
Organizations and practitioners can work with justice programs, nonprofits, and rehabilitation centers to make equine-assisted psychotherapy more widely accessible to those who need it most.
FAQs
Why is equine-assisted psychotherapy effective for incarcerated individuals?
EAP a nonjudgmental, hands-on approach to emotional growth and self-awareness. Horses respond to authenticity, helping justice-involved individuals develop trust, accountability, and emotional regulation.
How does working with horses help with rehabilitation?
When individuals work with the horse, they practice patience, nonverbal communication, and emotional control. These skills translate into improved interpersonal relationships and better social integration.
Is EAP only for people who like horses?
Not at all. Participants don’t need prior horse experience. In fact, many clients who have never interacted with horses before find the experience transformative because of the animals’ ability to reflect emotions and behaviors honestly.
Can equine therapy be used inside correctional facilities?
Yes. Some programs bring horses to facilities or transport incarcerated individuals to equine therapy centers. The Eagala Model is particularly well-suited for these settings since it is ground-based and does not involve riding.
How can mental health professionals and equine specialists get certified in equine-assisted psychotherapy?
Eagala offers professional training and certification in equine-assisted psychotherapy. By becoming Eagala-certified, practitioners can expand their reach and provide this powerful modality to justice-involved individuals.
Become Certified in the Eagala Model
If you are a mental health professional or equine specialist, you can play an important part in bringing equine-assisted psychotherapy to incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals. The Eagala Model is a proven, structured approach that provides an innovative path to healing, trust-building, and reintegration. Help bring this life-changing therapy to those who need it most–register for one of our training events and bolster your credentials!