Equine Assisted Therapy

I am now offering Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) for attachment injuries for adults and adolescents at Riding Club of Austin.

Working with horses in a therapy session can provide an opportunity to practice deeper level relationship skills like trust, vulnerability, assertiveness, and attunement to self and others. Because horses are prey animals, they are keenly aware of shifts in tone, body posture, and other subtle relational cues. Their awareness and responses in session can provide a point of reference for how we show up in relational spaces- making this a great modality for practicing self awareness, self control, and boundaries.

Additionally, like other herd animals, horses rely on direct communication from their trusted peers to stay safe and aware of their place in the herd dynamics. When working with horses in session, I assist clients in working through their own blocks to asking for what they need from relationships- directly, assertively, and respectfully. If you have struggled with people-pleasing tendencies, difficulty identifying your wants, needs, and desires in relationships, or shutting down when relationships become more close, EAP can be a great place to slow down and challenge those patterns.