Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is a therapeutic model that utilizes horses as part of the therapy team. In addition to the experiential learning model of EAP, other evidenced-based treatment models are integrated into sessions. Horses are large and powerful animals, yet sensitive, kind, and intuitive. They often reflect client’s emotions, leading to insightful revelations and understanding. EAP provides an opportunity to be outside and get connected to nature, which has many health benefits.
What it is not…
EAP is different from “Hippotherapy,” which is a form of physical, occupational and speech therapy in which a therapist uses the characteristic movements of a horse to provide carefully graded motor and sensory input.