Equine Therapy
At Lone Star Behavioral Health
What is equine Assisted therapy?
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) utilizes specialized trained horses in mental health treatment. At Lone Star Behavioral Health we offer Equine Assisted Psychotherapy at both our inpatient and outpatient locations. In this experience, a team comprised of the client, a therapist and a horse work together in harmony to exercise Cognitive Behavioral Therapy utilizing experiential exercises. Skill with horses is not required but honesty, respect, assertiveness and non-verbal communication are.
how does it work?
Horses and humans have been close companions for years which has led to horses having a unique sensitivity to human feelings. Horses can respond and communicate to humans with non-verbal cues during these therapy sessions that can promote a sense of safety, acceptance, and understanding. These interactions can help with emotional regulation and building trust and connection.
You, along with a therapist and Equine Specialist, will have the opportunity to attempt connection either in or outside the horse corral. During these sessions, your therapist may ask some questions about what you are experiencing and will have an opportunity to process your experience either with your group members or individually.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to participate in Equine assisted psychotherapy?
No, participation is optional during equine assisted psychotherapy. You are more than welcome to choose not to participate and just observe the interactions of your other group members.
Can I pet the horse?
During EAP you may have an opportunity to attempt connection with our trained horses. Remember, our horses are used as a treatment modality and our interactions are for therapeutic purposes to help you develop skills to manage connection. You may have an opportunity to pet and groom the horse.
Will I be riding the horse?
We do not do horseback riding here at Lone Star Behavioral Health.
Who takes care of the horses?
We have a full staff that groom, feed, and take care of all of our horses!
Will the horse bite me?
While you are attempting connection with one of our equine horses, you will be accompanied by an Equine Therapist as well as a trained Equine Specialist who is specifically trained in monitoring horse behavior and making sure you are safe during your experience.
What is needed to participate in EAP?
You will be asked to sign a waiver to participate. Closed toe shoes are also required if you will be going into the corral with the horse. If you do not bring closed toe shoes, some will be provided for you during your experience.
What if I have mobility restrictions?
If you have mobility restrictions, you will still have an opportunity to attempt connection with our equine horses. We will adapt to ensure you and our staff members feel safe.
What You’ll Learn
- Communication Skills
- Setting Boundaries
- Overcoming Fears
- Identifying and Coping with Feelings
- Trust
To be Noted
Equine Therapy is conducted when our horses are available and when weather permits.
Requirements
- Signed waiver
- Closed toe shoes
- Limited mobility restrictions
- An open mind