~West Bench~
807 Vedette Drive
Penticton, BC V2A 8Y3
P: 778.476.2530
F: 778.476.2531
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is a therapeutic practice that uses horses to provide metaphoric and emotional experiences that can help assist with emotional growth. Horses have the ability to respond immediately to the rider’s actions and will also give feedback; Horses also possess a high degree of empathy allowing them to mirror the rider’s emotions. EAP is very beneficial to children with Autism and for veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The rhythmic motion that happens when riding a horse is slow, deliberate and relaxing; The motions allows the children to focus on the movement and in turn teaches the child to focus better, all of this is aided by the calm and relaxing effect riding has. Tactile senses are also stimulated, the skin is fuzzy and main is rough, discovery of these senses often draws the child out. About 300,000 men and women each year return from the Middle East suffering from PTSD. People who suffer from PTSD deal with nightmares, anxiety, depression, anger, and other seriously debilitating effects; EAP has shown great promise in treating people who suffer from this very serious disability. Military veterans form a bond with the horse which allows them to gain self understanding and emotional growth. The natural empathy a horse has allows the animal to recognize between animals and humans as well as the potential for emotional healing between the two. Other therapies such as physical, occupational and speech-language therapy are combined in such a way that the child, or veteran, does not actually feel like they are undergoing therapy. Exercises such as instructing the horse without yelling or imposing on them physically, as well as grooming and caring for the horse help connect the client in an emotional way that can help guide them to a brighter future.
Sesa Associates:
Alcohol, Substance Abuse and AddictionsPlease click a service for full description and available therapist.
Our Services
Jennifer Jules
