Equine Assisted Psychotherapy Illinois - Eagala
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Equine Assisted Psychotherapy in Illinois

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy in Illinois

Horses behind picket fence pasture farm

Illinois Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy Training

The Importance of Mental Health Awareness in Illinois

According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 8 people around the world suffers from a mental disorder. This includes Illinois, where residents face an array of emotional and behavioral issues. And while traditional therapy is effective for many, it may not address the needs of everyone. 

Eagala offers an opportunity for mental health practitioners to give their patients something unique: equine-assisted psychotherapy. This revolutionary model has proven to help treat those with  PTSD, domestic abuse, addiction, depression, behavioral disorders, trauma, and other afflictions. We want to ensure that people in Illinois who need something different, something unique, have access to this effective care, leading to an improved quality of life and a better understanding of themselves and those around them.

The Eagala Model: Mental Health Treatment That Breaks From Tradition

Unlike traditional talk therapy modalities, the Eagala model employs the intuitive and non-judgmental nature of horses to create a therapeutic environment that fosters deep emotional connections and the ability to look within for healing. This model of equine-assisted psychotherapy gives clients a new and powerful way to approach their mental health treatment. 

Horses, after centuries of honing their ability to be aware of their surroundings for protection, can reflect the emotions of their human counterparts. These new perspectives help them develop building block skills such as controlling emotions, the ability to trust, and more thoughtful communication.

In Illinois, many programs are offering the Eagala Model of therapy. Eagala-trained specialists are ready to assist throughout the state, making this one-of-a-kind experience more accessible to all. By working with Eagala-certified experts–both mental health professionals and equine specialists, clients can experience mental health growth and stability, building healthier relationships by gaining a greater understanding of themselves.

Two horses in a field walking toward the camera

Keep Your Feet on the Ground While Reaching New Heights of Emotional Awareness

While some equine therapy options have patients ride horses, the Eagala Model keeps clients on the ground. There are a few reasons for this, including safety and being mindful of the horse’s freedom during these interactions. Many patients may not feel comfortable mounting a horse and may not be able to give freely of themselves if they are concentrating on keeping control of the horse.

On the other side of the equation is the horse, whose limited movements can also interfere with how they work with a patient. By keeping both on equal footing, they can concentrate on non-verbal communication with each other under the guidance of health care and equine professionals. This allows for more free-flowing feelings and more impactful sessions.

Horses in a pasture grazing at dusk

Bolster Your Credentials in the Mental Health Field

If you’re a mental health professional or equine specialist in Illinois, Eagala training allows you to expand your expertise and offer more to your patients. This training lets you offer a unique therapy that gives clients fresh ways to understand and tackle their issues. Mental health practitioners can enrich their work with equine-assisted psychotherapy, while equine specialists can use their skills to create meaningful therapeutic experiences.

Eagala’s program ensures both facilitators work together smoothly, helping clients make profound breakthroughs in their mental health journey. By adding this certification, you can increase what you offer your patients and provide an innovative therapy option that truly transforms lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Eagala Model is a form of equine-assisted psychotherapy where horses are utilized as partners in the healing process and help clients gain insights and address mental health issues. Unlike traditional therapy, it involves interactive sessions with horses, providing non-verbal feedback and fostering emotional growth.

Individuals dealing with PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma can benefit from this model. Horses are intuitive and non-judgmental, which helps clients feel safe and understood, encouraging deeper self-reflection.

No, clients interact with horses from the ground, allowing natural, unrestricted communication. This is a safer form of therapy in partnership horses, conducted by trained professionals in a controlled–yet unencumbered–environment.

Yes, there are many certified professionals worldwide, including in the state of Illinois. Visit our programs page to find Eagala-certified therapy near you.

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