Assisted Therapy

Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT), Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and Equine Facilitated Therapy (EAT) are terms used to describe a human treatment and therapeutic process that incorporates horses. All three utilize a horse, a horse specialist and a therapeutic specialist in the treatment process. EAP uses horses experientially for emotional growth and learning.  It is a collaborative effort between a licensed therapist and a horse professional working with the clients and horses to address treatment goals. Most of the work done in EAP is considered “ground work” – in that the client never actually mounts and rides the horse. EAP utilizes the intellectual/emotional connection of working with a large animal that responds to immediate intent and conduct. EFP work is more often done astride the horse, and utilizes the physical/emotional connection of working in tandem with the horse to accomplish a specific task. Both are experiential in nature. This means that participants learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses, and then processing (or discussing) feelings, behaviors, and patterns.

This approach is consistent with the GATEWAYS for Youth & Families therapeutic model and has been compared to the ropes courses used by therapists, treatment facilities, and human development courses around the world.

GATEWAYS for Youth & Families Ranch Expansion will provide counselors, educators and youth development professionals with the means of incorporating EAT in our range of treatment options for working with at-risk youth. As the program develops and the Ranch Expansion[link to Ranch Expansion page] moves forward, we will publish additional information about the resources that will be available to the community through our expanded services and facilities.

For those who are interested in learning more about this emerging treatment option:

Shultz, B. (2005).  The effects of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy on the psychosocial functioning of at-risk adolescents ages 12-18.  Unpublished Masters Thesis. Denver Seminary. Denver, CO.

Tetreault, A. (2006).  Horses that heal: The effectiveness of Equine Assisted Growth and Learning on the behavior of students diagnosed with Emotional Disorder.  Unpublished Masters Thesis. Governors State University, University Park, IL.

Trotter, Kay Sudekum (2006). The Efficacy of Equine Assisted Group Counseling with At-risk Children and Adolescents. (abstract) dissertation (full document) Doctorate of Philosophy (Counseling), University of North Texas.