What is Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
(EAP)?
EAP is an
experiential form of treatment, therefore making it suitable and effective for most
populations. It is a collaborative
approach, combining a licensed psychotherapist and an equine specialist, also
known as a “horse person.” EAP is an effective form of treatment because it
provides clients with the opportunity to learn about themselves, the
environment, and others, as a result of participating in activities with
horses. Throughout the course of therapy, clients have the opportunity to
process the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, which have been creating
difficulties and barriers to healthy functioning.
What are the benefits to EAP?
The benefits to
EAP are countless, although some obvious benefits include the hands-on nature
to learning and processing. Research has
shown that experiential forms of treatment tend to promote higher levels of
progress. In addition to the experiential nature of EAP, the client is working
with a living being. This living being,
the horse, has powerful energy that cannot be replicated in other forms of
treatment. Horses respond to thoughts,
feelings, and behaviors, giving clients the opportunity to gain valuable
insight they may not otherwise develop.
Can EAP be combined with traditional
therapy?
Yes, often times
your therapist will further process your EAP experience with you following your
EAP session. At times, other treatment
modalities may also be combined by EAP. For
example, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Our
program focuses on combining both EAP and traditional therapies. This allows each client to have an eclectic
experience.
What are my therapist’s credentials?
Your therapist
is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of North Carolina, Nationally
Certified Counselor, and has also been certified in EAP by OK CORRAL
Series. In addition, your therapist is a
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional to better assist those suffering from
exposure to trauma.
