What is Equine Assisted Psychotherapy?
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is a powerful, experiential approach to mental health and personal development that incorporates horses into the therapeutic process.
It is particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and stress-related challenges. EAP provides a unique opportunity for clients to engage in hands-on, interactive sessions that promote self-awareness, emotional regulation, and healing in a supportive and natural environment.
What can I expect in a session?
Each equine-assisted psychotherapy session is tailored to the individual’s needs and goals.
The first session begins in the cottage onsite for a detailed biopsychosocial assessment and a brief meeting of the herd.
The following sessions are where I work together with clients to interact with horses through activities such as grooming, leading, and groundwork exercises—no prior horse experience or riding is required.
During a session, I work with clients to learn exercises to regulate their nervous system, explore emotions, develop coping strategies, and process experiences, and engaged in reflective discussions in the presence of the herd.
The presence of the horse provides a grounding and stabilising effect, helping clients work through challenges in a way that feels natural and non-intrusive.
Do you need experience with horses?
You do not need experience with horses, it is also not an issue if you are scared or hesitant around horses due to past experience or lack of experience.
In fact, this can present a unique opportunity to provide a "safe emergency" eliciting many similar emotions you may experience with other challenging situations in life, this then provides an opportunity in real time to work towards awareness and learning to regulate your nervous system among many other benefits.
What do I wear and what should I bring?
- Sturdy fully enclosed shoes, ideally steel cap boots
- A sunhat in the hot months a raincoat or warm jacket if there is a chance of rain or if the weather is cold
- A water bottle
- Wear or bring sunscreen and insect repellent
- Dress for the season and prepare to be outside
Giving OTTBs a New Purpose in Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy
Off-the-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs) are incredible athletes, but their true strength extends far beyond the racetrack.
In equine-assisted psychotherapy, these resilient horses find a new purpose as co-facilitators, offering their sensitivity, honesty, and deep emotional intelligence to those on a healing journey.
Race Name - Vulcan De Fuego (aka Donny) The Charismatic Leader with a Heart of Gold
Donny is more than just a horse—he’s the heart and soul of the herd. A retired racehorse with a larger-than-life personality, he has traded the fast pace of the track for the quiet wisdom of leadership.
A true ladies’ man, Donny is adored by the mares, effortlessly winning hearts with his gentle presence and easygoing nature. But his affection isn’t reserved for just them—he thrives on connection with everyone he meets, always seeking out a nuzzle, a soft touch, or a quiet moment of companionship.
Wearing his emotions on his sleek and powerful frame, Donny doesn’t hide how he feels. Whether he’s brimming with excitement, basking in affection, or offering quiet reassurance, his body speaks volumes. He’s a horse who feels deeply and loves fully, making him not only a leader but also a healer, a friend, and a soul who brings warmth to all who cross his path.
Donny is proof that strength and sensitivity can go hand in hand, and those lucky enough to know him soon realise—once Donny welcomes you into his world, your family forever.
Race Name - Diamond Lily (aka Diamond) The Brilliant, Bold, and Beautiful Matriarch
Diamond is the quiet force that holds the herd together—a mare of intelligence, resilience, and quiet wisdom. She carries the spirit of a competitor, but her greatest strength lies in her mind.
Clever and quick to learn, she picks up on things faster than most, always one step ahead and watching the world with sharp, knowing eyes. But while she is keen to understand, she is slow to trust. Those who earn her loyalty know it is a rare and precious gift, one that, once given, is unwavering.
Her presence is essential to the herd, a steady and grounding energy that keeps everything in balance.
Though she carries herself with a quiet dignity, there is one thing that can melt her composed exterior—carrots. A single crunchy treat can light up her day, revealing the softer, more playful side of this strong-willed mare.
Diamond is proof that true strength lies not in force, but in knowing when to stand firm and when to let love in. She is a gem in every sense—unbreakable, brilliant, and deeply treasured by those lucky enough to be in her circle.
Race Name - Arbalour (aka still Arbalour!) The Gentle Soul with a Heart of Gold
Arbalour is the baby of the herd, a soft and sensitive soul who carries the gentlest spirit. As an off-the-track Thoroughbred (OTTB), he once tried his hand at racing, but speed was never his calling. With long legs that sometimes seem to have a mind of their own, coordination isn’t his strongest suit—but what he lacks in athleticism, he more than makes up for in kindness.
Shy and a little anxious, Arbalour takes his time warming up to new things, preferring to observe from a safe distance before stepping forward. But beneath his cautious nature lies a heart overflowing with patience, understanding, and an unmatched capacity for care. He is the kind of horse who will stand quietly beside you, offering his presence as comfort without expecting anything in return.
Despite his uncertainties, there is something deeply special about Arbalour. His quiet, steady kindness has a way of soothing even the most troubled souls, making him a beloved member of the herd. He may not be the fastest or the most confident, but when it comes to pure-hearted goodness, he stands in a league of his own.
Arbalour is a reminder that true strength is found in gentleness, and that sometimes, the softest souls leave the deepest impressions.
Race Name - Dance of Choice (aka Dance) "The Loving Guardian" with a Heart as Big as Her Appetite
Dance is a mother at heart, a nurturing soul who has lovingly raised many foals with the perfect balance of care, patience, and quiet wisdom. She carries the gentle strength of a seasoned matriarch, always watching over the herd with a steady and knowing presence.
Though kind and deeply caring, Dance has a touch of aloofness—she chooses when and where to give her affection. But if you come bearing hay, consider yourself an instant favorite. In fact, if ever she goes missing for a moment, there’s no need to worry—just check the nearest hay bale, and there she’ll be, happily munching away, completely content in her own little world.
With a soft nature and endless patience, Dance is the kind of horse who makes those around her feel safe and seen. She offers quiet reassurance to those who need it, her presence a constant source of comfort. While she may not always seek out attention, those lucky enough to be in her circle know just how special she truly is.
Dance is proof that love comes in many forms—sometimes it’s in the watchful eye of a mother, the steady presence of a friend, or the quiet joy of simply being near a good meal.
Country Boy (aka CB) - The Golden Hearted Veteran
Country Boy is the definition of a seasoned professional—an old soul with a lifetime of experience under his hooves.
At 25 years young, this veteran of the dressage arena and pony club has retired from the thrill of competition, now embracing the slower, more peaceful pace of life. Having spent years teaching young riders the ropes, he has earned every moment of the quiet serenity he now enjoys.
He carries himself with the quiet confidence of a pony who has seen it all, done it all, and now simply wishes to spend his days basking in the sun, nibbling on a well-earned apple or carrot.
Though his competition days are behind him, his wisdom and kind nature remain invaluable. He is a pony who has shaped many lives, both in and out of the arena, and continues to do so just by being the calm, grounding presence that he is.
Country Boy is proof that true greatness isn’t measured in ribbons or medals, but in the lives touched, the lessons taught, and the quiet moments of contentment earned after a life well lived.