Equine Assisted Therapy
"Recovery can take place only within the context of relationships; it cannot occur in isolation” (Herman, 1992).
About Equine Assisted Therapy
Equine Assisted Therapy is a dynamic and evidence-based approach that harnesses the healing power of horses to support individuals in overcoming a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges. Backed by scientific research, this innovative modality offers a unique and holistic path towards wellness and personal growth.
Equine Assisted Therapy sessions are led by licensed mental health professionals, incorporating horses as co-therapists to address issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction and more.
What are the benefits of Equine Assisted Therapy?
Enhanced Engagement: Many clients, particularly those who may struggle with traditional talk therapy, find themselves more engaged and open in the presence of horses. The dynamic and non-judgmental nature of horses creates a safe space for exploration and expression. Interacting with horses on the ground provides opportunities for individuals to develop emotional regulation skills. Horses are sensitive animals and can reflect and respond to human emotions, helping individuals recognize and manage their feelings effectively.
Building Trust and Confidence: Engaging in ground-based activities such as grooming, leading, and ground exercises fosters a bond of trust and mutual respect between the individual and the horse. As individuals successfully interact with horses, they gain confidence and self-assurance.
Improved Communication Skills: Interacting with horses requires clear communication between the individual and the horse, often without the use of verbal cues. This enhances non-verbal communication skills, including body language, tone, and energy awareness, which can transfer to improved interpersonal communication.
Stress Reduction: Spending time with horses in a ground-based setting can have calming effects on the nervous system, leading to reduced stress levels and increased relaxation. Engaging in activities such as grooming and leading promotes mindfulness and helps individuals focus on the present moment.
Physical Benefits: Ground-based equine therapy involves physical activities such as grooming, leading, and groundwork exercises, which can improve balance, coordination, and strength. These activities also promote physical fitness and overall well-being.
Social and Emotional Learning: Ground-based equine therapy often incorporates social and emotional learning components, providing opportunities for individuals to develop empathy, compassion, and social skills. Working with horses in a group setting encourages teamwork, cooperation, and mutual support.
Empowerment and Independence: Accomplishing tasks and overcoming challenges with horses on the ground promotes feelings of empowerment and independence. Individuals gain a sense of achievement as they successfully interact with and care for the horses, which can translate to increased self-confidence in other areas of life.
Therapeutic Bonding: Ground-based equine therapy allows individuals to develop a therapeutic bond with the horse through close proximity and hands-on interaction. This bond can provide comfort, support, and companionship, contributing to emotional healing and well-being.
Emotional Regulation: Horses are incredibly attuned to human emotions, providing immediate feedback to client’s emotional states. Through interactions with horses, clients can learn valuable skills in emotional regulation, empathy and self-awareness.
Holistic Healing: Ground-based equine therapy takes a holistic approach to healing, addressing the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of individuals' well-being. By engaging with horses on the ground, individuals can experience profound transformations and personal growth.
Team Building: Equine Assisted Therapy is not limited to individual sessions. It can also be adapted for group settings, making it an effective tool for team building, communication enhancement and conflict resolution in various settings.
Testimonials
Being in the presence of the gentle giants at Whinny Hill Equestrian Centre was a profoundly moving experience. Laying my head on the horse's neck, I could feel the steady rhythm of both her heart and mine. For a few seconds/minutes/hours time stopped; the space we were in faded into the background. Feeling a true connection with such a powerful, instinctual being and receiving permission to enter into her space, without thought or judgement, had a therapeutic power that transcends simple description, but the gratitude I hold having done so is without question.
John, Therapist
I signed up for the equine therapy horse handler orientation, thinking that I would be spending a little time learning about harnesses and halters and where not to stand when it comes to horses. Instead, I experienced a morning of somatic awareness, and horse wisdom led by an extremely skilled and attuned facilitator, Nathan. I came away, with the certainty that there is great potential for healing through these magnificent animals as teachers. Driving home, I felt as if my soul had experienced a reconnection with an old friend. Never did learn about halters…
Sally, Therapist
Recently I had the pleasure of spending the morning at Whinny Hill Equestrian Centre. It truly is a special place. I am a counsellor who has to manage vicarious trauma, and often I am not the most consistent with self-care. From the time I arrived at the Farm I felt peaceful, engaged and focused on the beautiful surroundings and the amazing animals that share this beautiful space. My time there gave me the space to feel grounded and present. I appreciate the time Sherry took to share her knowledge of the Farm and the beautiful horses whose presence makes it a truly special place. Nicole, Therapist
Whinny Hill Farm Equestrian Centre is a special place, and my recent visit was wonderful. Right from the start, I felt welcomed and at ease. Sherry, who hosted us was incredibly kind, knowledgeable, and gracious with her time. She included several mindfulness exercises in our time at the farm which helped me really soak in the whole experience and appreciate the farm with all my senses.
Laura, Therapist
The farm itself is gorgeous! The buildings, the land—it's all so calming and picturesque. Seeing the horses living together in their herds, roaming the land and interacting naturally was very moving. It's clear they're well taken care of and happy. I feel fortunate to have Whinny Hill Equestrian Center in my community. I looking forward to spending more time there. It's a peaceful place where you can take a break from the business of everyday life and just enjoy being around nature and animals. Carly, Therapy Student
Video Research links
Longitudinal study out of Harvard University on the impact of EAT and PTSD
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=019iXQKZETM&t=54s
Mississippi State University Equine Therapy Research
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0j24-XOcgw&t=137s
Equine Assisted Services for Veterans with PTSD Research
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0B7RarXUoEA&t=109s
Rutgers Equine Center of Research – Co-regulation in Equine and Human Interactions.
Contact Us
For more information or to book a farm tour please contact: Sherry Hudson, 902-541-9290, therapy@whinnyhill.ca.
