Equine therapy is still basic mental health therapy involving a licensed therapist, but you have the addition of a horse and an equine specialist. It is a mental health intervention that can support people of many ages facing a wide range of challenges.
Here in south Florida, specifically, Palm Beach County, EAP is offered by a small fraction of organizations. We are happy to be expanding this intervention into the area, to serve and support our community!
HALT (stands for Horse Assisted Learning & Therapies) offers a mental health treatment modality called equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) which is an experiential form of psychotherapy where horses are involved in the sessions. EAP activities are done on the ground, typically no riding is involved. “Experiential” means that you will be involved in hands-on experiences with the horses designed to reflect things going on in your life.
What is unique about EAP is that clients are partnered with a living animal who has feelings and reacts to others non-judgmentally. Horses are aware and can then respond accordingly to our emotions. This response can bring emotions to the surface so that clients are faced with working through them in the present moment in a safe environment. The process is not always about interacting with the treatment team, although that will happen at times. It is about providing you the opportunity to experience, explore, problem-solve, discover, be creative, gain insight and experience practical applications of what you are learning in the moment. The process focuses on “doing” and "connecting" to rewire maladaptive thoughts, behaviors, and feelings.
All activities take place at HALT in Jupiter Farms, conveniently located minutes from both I95 and the Turnpike. All activities are led by a Licensed Mental Health Professional and a Certified Equine Specialist of Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH Intl.) and/or Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA). Both professionals are certified.
Afraid of large animals? Horses are big, yes. But, they have a gentleness and uniqueness that allows them to interact with humans and connect on a deep level.
Some expectations include, but, are not limited to:
- being outside in nature,
- petting, brushing, painting,
- washing/ caring for them,
- leading on a rope,
- engaging in a large fenced in pasture,
- building connections and relationships with your "partner" horse.
Sometimes typical office based therapy isn't effective on it's own. In this case, adding EAP could enhance the overall treatment results. Your individual therapist would be encouraged to consult and coordinate with Brittany, to bridge any gap in treatment.
Whether it's your first time seeking therapy, or your already on your journey, equine therapy can benefit you! Reach out to schedule a free phone consultation with Brittany.
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Have questions? Contact Serene Trails Therapy for a free phone consultation.