|
|
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
Integrity House employs the use of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
(EAP). Equine Assisted Psychotherapy is a powerful intervention tool helpful
in assisting trouble youth with healing, self-discovery, and positive
change. When traditional methods have not produced successful outcomes
that people want, and lives seemingly become more "out of control", people
look for something that will have a more effective and positive impact in
helping to create change. Horses are powerful agents for change. As
strange as it may seem, adding a horse to the psychotherapy equation can
often be the missing piece.
Why Horses?
They are large and powerful, which creates a natural opportunity for
some to overcome fear and develop confidence. The power of horses can work
to influence people in incredible ways such as developing healthy
relationships, work ethics, communications, and responsibility. EAP
addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including
behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse, eating
disorders, abuse issues, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and
communication needs. EAP is an emerging field in which horses are used as
a tool for emotional growth and learning. It is a collaborative effort
between licensed therapist, a horse professional, and a five foot tall,
1,000 pound mentor. This 'team approach' is effective in helping youth
learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the
horses, and then processing their feelings, behaviors, and patterns. The
focus of EAP is not riding or horsemanship. In fact 90% of EAP takes place
purely on the ground. The focus of EAP involves setting up activities
involving the horses, which will require the client or group to apply
certain skills. Non-verbal communication, assertiveness, creative thinking
and problem solving, leadership, work, taking responsibility, teamwork and
relationships, confidence, and attitude are several examples of the tools
utilized and developed by EAP.
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy has the dynamic of utilizing
extraordinary animals, with personalities, attitudes, and moods as unique
as those of each individual involved. Because of this, EAP produces
endless experiences and situations for emotional growth, learning, and
healing.
|
