Frequently asked questions.

What is EAL/EAP?

Equine-Assisted Learning: Equine-assisted learning (EAL) is an equine-assisted activity that broadly refers the development of social-emotional skills, personal development life skills, capacity building and professional development (leadership and team building). Some focus areas of EAL include but not limited to teaching social skills, communication skills, leadership skills, relationship skills whilst facilitating personal growth and increased self-awareness. The non-judgemental interactions with horses provide a safe place for participants to grow. These activities are usually non-mounted and some EAL providers teach horsemanship skills, and use a variety of approaches with theoretical underpinnings within their sessions. EAL is a fast-growing modality across Australia and the globe. National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) clients benefit greatly from EAL services as do children, adolescents and adults.

Equine Assisted Therapy or Psychotherapy is an experiential experience incorporating horses with the aim of emotional growth and learning. The process of Equine therapy has been around since the 1960s. It is a collaboration between a and mental health professional and client together with a horse working towards treatment goals. Equine assisted therapy offers participants a therapeutic environment that feels less threatening and ‘clinical’ than traditional talk therapy which in turn promotes emotional safety and regulation of the client, thus providing better treatment outcomes.

Why choose EAL/EAP?

  1. You find talk therapy challenging

  2. You love being outdoors and nature is a safe place for you

  3. You are looking for something to complement existing therapy modalities

  4. You are wanting a unique and experiential interaction with a horse

  5. You are wanting to learn more about yourself

If this sounds like you, then EAL/EAP could be a fit for you or your client. Contact us to discuss your needs.

What can EAP/ EAL support?

Regulating emotions (including anxiety, depression, anger, and stress)

  • Mental Health difficulties

  • Trust

  • Social skills

  • Behavioural problems

  • Low self esteem

  • Trust

  • Boundaries

  • Communication

  • Anxiety, depression

  • Building resilience

  • Addictions

  • Trauma

  • Confidence and self-esteem

  • Grief and loss

  • Life changing events.

How long is an EAP/EAL Session?

45 -60 mins

What happens in a session?

You will be introduced to your therapist/facilitator. Upon/prior arrival you will need to read and sign the agreement to participate form and the client intake for with your details. You will be given a safety guidelines for being with horses.

You will be introduced to your horse. The activities will vary in accordance to planned treatment goals, all activities will be unmounted.

What do I wear?

The sessions are outdoors, you will need to wear suitable clothing for the weather on the day, so please check. Working with horses will require you to wear enclosed footwear, trousers, hat and sunscreen.

Who do you work with?

We accept self reffered clients, GP referred, NDIS referral, NDIS plan and self managed clients, subject to client intake assessment. Which is completed over the phone/ online referral form.

What Research can I read?

  • Gestalt Equine Psychotherapy - Meggin Kirby, Gestalt Journal of Australia and New Zealand, 2010

  • 2016 EAAT Literature Review By Leif Hallberg

  • Application of Attachment Theory to Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy - Keren Bachi Published online: 14 March

  • 2013, Spriner Science+Business Media New York 2013