What is EAP?

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Learning (EAP) is the professional field in which horses are used as a tool for emotional growth and learning and is the collaborative effort between a licensed therapist and a horse professional.

Because of its intensity and effectiveness, it is considered a short-term or "brief" approach. 

 EAP is experiential, meaning that the participants learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses, and then processing (discussing) feelings and behaviors that arise during the session.  This approach has been compared to the ropes courses used by therapists, treatment facilities and human development courses around the world.  The therapy, however, has the added advantage of utilizing horses, dynamic and powerful living beings.

 The focus of EAP is not riding or horsemanship, but involves the use of activities with  horses which requires the client or group to apply certain skills.  Non-verbal communication, assertiveness, creative thinking and problem solving, leadership, taking responsibility, teamwork and relationships, confidence and attitude are several examples of the tools utilized and developed in the therapy.

 EAP is a powerful and effective approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, families and groups. And 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.

Why horses?  Horses are large, powerful animals, the size of the horse is naturally intimidating to many. Accomplishing a task involving a horse, in spite of fears, creates confidence and provides wonderful metaphors when dealing with other intimidating and challenging situations in life.

Horses are very much like humans in that they are social animals. They have defined roles within their herds.  They have distinct personalities, attitudes and moods.  An approach that works with one horse does not necessarily work with another.  At times they seem stubborn and defiant, yet they also like to have fun and to play. In other words, horses provide vast opportunities for metaphorical learning.  Using metaphors, in discussion of the activity, is an effective technique when working with even the most challenging individuals or groups.

 More importantly horses do not lie, with a horse what you see is what you get! They have the ability to mirror exactly what human body language is telling them.  Many people will complain, "the horse is stubborn" or "he doesn’t like me", but the lesson to be learned is that if the person changes, the horse responds differently.  Horses are honest which makes them especially powerful messengers.

 Horse Play, has started its Ministry in Jamaica with "at risk" Jamaican youths and drug addicts and alcoholics in recovery.  The EAP team consists of Dr Sidney McGill, a local psychotherapist, and Mrs. Tina Williams, horse professional  Level 1 EAGALA.

 For more information on this unique kind of therapy, check out the website for the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) at www.eagala.org.

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