Why Horses?
Non-verbal Communication: Horses are highly sensitive to human body language and emotions, which makes them ideal partners in therapy. In equine-assisted psychotherapy, horses respond to subtle cues—such as posture, facial expressions, and tone of voice. This helps individuals become more aware of their own emotional states and can encourage them to open up in ways they might not with words alone.
Building Trust and Confidence: The presence of a horse in therapy allows individuals to practice trust in a safe, non-threatening, and non-judgmental environment. Horses are honest in their responses and are often very gentle, which can help people work through trust issues or low self-esteem. This process allows the individual to be vulnerable and helps them build confidence as they form a connection with the horse based on mutual respect.
Improved Self-Awareness and Reflection: In EAP, the horse’s responses often serve as a mirror for the client’s internal world. For example, if a person is feeling disconnected or withdrawn, the horse may show disinterest or retreat. This provides an opportunity for reflection and self-discovery, helping clients recognize patterns in their behavior and emotions that they may not have previously understood.
The Eagala Method
The Eagala Method is an innovative mental health treatment model incorporating horses who are highly attuned to emotions. They offer an environment for clients to discover their answers within themselves.
Team Approach:
Using a collaborative approach, the Eagala model incorporates a licensed Mental Health Professional and a qualified Equine Specialist. They work together with the horses and clients as equal partners in an experiential process that empowers life-changing outcomes.
Ground Based:
Eagala’s therapy is exclusively ground-based, meaning there is no riding of the horses. This approach allows the horses to act naturally and make their own choices, making them integral members of the therapeutic team. It also makes Eagala accessible to clients who have no equine background or experience.
Solution-Oriented:
A few key theoretical underpinnings of the Eagala Model include experiential therapy, animal-assisted therapy, narrative therapy, and is humanistic/person-centered. This model is also trauma informed.
Code of Ethics:
The Eagala Code of Ethics emphasizes the importance of maintaining professional integrity, respect, and responsibility in all equine-assisted psychotherapy practices. Practitioners are committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental environment for clients. This ensures confidentiality, and promoting the well-being of both clients and horses. EAGALA-certified professionals are required to work within their scope of competence, collaborate with other professionals as needed, and uphold ethical standards in all aspects of therapy.
