In partnering with horses a background develops for successful therapeutic discourse. The equine assisted psychotherapy engages the client in petting and handling horses while providing an open space—the “safe zone” —that invites dialogue. In this environment, conversations regarding issues the client has are allowed to ensue in a manner that surpasses traditional psychotherapy. In this safety zone, children, teens, and adults learn to speak the “un-spoken” and address problems or emotional burdens—perhaps for the first time—in a manner of genuiness and honesty.

They are allowed to relate in ways they have never been able to before.