Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is recognized internationally as an effective mental health treatment option for a multitude of mental health problems and diverse populations, including at risk youth and adolescents, adults, couples, families, the elderly and life coaching. EAP focuses on the animal/human relationship and the significance of the horse as a therapeutic partner in the relational endeavour.
EAP provides love and acceptance and fills voids within behavior and emotions. In contrast to complex human relationships, horses provide relational connections that are relaxed and intimate. The need for horses to be cared for in their activities of daily living finds parity in the human need to be nurtured and loved.
The impact on mental and emotional health can be seen in people who love and nurture animals as a friend or akin to a family member, and not a pet. Tenderness and love evolve through a connection of providing unconditional love and loyalty.
If we alter the context, or way of doing conversation, a door opens for new feelings, thoughts, relationships, and change. This is inevitable. Conversations make us feel and do differently when we are free to speak.