Ireland Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy That Brings Mental Health Professionals and Equine Specialists Together
Mental Health Awareness in Ireland
Mental health challenges affect people worldwide, with the World Health Organization estimating that 1 in 8 individuals will experience a mental health disorder in their lifetime. A 2016 Health at a Glance Report ranked Ireland among the top three countries in Europe for mental health illness prevalence, with 18.5% of the population experiencing conditions such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, or substance use disorders.
Access to effective mental health treatment is vital, yet not every person benefits from traditional therapy models. The availability of diverse therapeutic approaches ensures that more people can receive support in ways that work best for them.
The Eagala Model of equine-assisted psychotherapy provides an alternative to conventional talk therapy. This experiential method engages clients in hands-on interactions with horses, allowing them to explore emotions and behaviors in a nonverbal, reflective setting. By offering a dynamic and immersive approach to mental health treatment, the Eagala Model helps individuals uncover insights and develop strategies for lasting emotional well-being.
The Eagala Model of Psychotherapy
The Eagala Model is a structured form of equine-assisted psychotherapy where mental health professionals, equine specialists, and horses work together as equal partners in the therapeutic process. Rather than relying solely on verbal communication, this model encourages clients to engage in active interactions with horses. Horses are highly perceptive and respond to human emotions with immediate and unbiased feedback, helping clients identify patterns in their thoughts and behaviors.
This method is particularly effective for addressing trauma, stress, and interpersonal difficulties. By engaging in real-time, experiential learning, clients gain deeper self-awareness and develop healthier coping mechanisms. The Eagala Model creates a supportive environment where individuals can process emotions in a way that feels natural and intuitive.
The Boots on the Ground Approach
A defining feature of the Eagala Model is that it is entirely ground-based—clients do not ride the horses. Instead, they interact with them in an open environment where the horses are free to move naturally without saddles, bridles, or reins. This approach allows horses to respond authentically to clients’ emotions and body language, fostering genuine and unscripted interactions.
For many, the lack of a riding component makes therapy more approachable, as no prior horse experience is necessary. Because Equine Specialists are part of the team, mental health professionals can integrate this model into their practice without needing horsemanship expertise of their own. Additionally, this approach provides a meaningful role for horses that may no longer be rideable, ensuring they continue to contribute in a way that benefits both them and the clients they assist.
How Eagala Certification Helps Your Practice
Becoming Eagala certified is a valuable step for mental health professionals and equine specialists seeking to enhance their practice with an innovative, evidence-based therapy model. Certification provides the tools and training necessary to implement equine-assisted psychotherapy effectively, offering clients a powerful alternative to traditional modalities.
In addition to skill development, certification grants access to Eagala’s global network of professionals, continuing education opportunities, and extensive resources. This ensures that practitioners stay informed on the latest developments in equine-assisted psychotherapy. Whether you are expanding your practice or looking for a new therapeutic approach, Eagala certification provides the framework to make a lasting impact.
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