What is equine-assisted learning?

Equine-assisted learning is an introspective, experiential approach to growth and learning through collaboration with horses.  This approach to therapy has the capacity to serve clients as a primary treatment method, yet it may also be used in conjunction with traditional “talk therapy.”   

Why use horses in therapy?

Horses are large, powerful animals that can weigh anywhere from two hundred to 2,000 pounds. They’re also prey animals, which means they are sensitive and responsive to changes in their environment.  This unique combination of power and vulnerability, along with their social nature, makes horses ideal for therapeutic work with clients.

Equine-assisted learning provides opportunities for experiential, metaphorical learning.  This modality works off of the understanding that due to horses’ high level of sensitivity, they have the ability to pick up on, and mirror, the emotional states of people.   The beauty of working with horses is that they are entirely nonjudgmental.  They do not value one emotion over another.  For them, grief and contentment have the same emotional value.  One is not better than the other.  Interestingly, horses do place a high value on their human partner’s ability to honor what is true for them, which is sometimes referred to as “emotional congruence.” In my professional experience, one of the most helpful features of equine-assisted learning is the opportunity for clients to share their most tender, authentic side and realize that there is great strength in the soft space of personal truth and vulnerability.

Who can benefit from equine-assisted learning?

This approach to growth and learning is incredibly versatile, and can be used to facilitate personal growth, youth education and life skill development, corporate training, and team building.  Equine-assisted learning has been reported to be useful for clients looking for support regarding interpersonal topics such as improving communication, setting boundaries, cultivating emotional congruence, initiating and maintaining relationships, and showing emotional vulnerability.  In addition, it can address issues typically associated with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, behavioral difficulties, depression, grief/loss, PTSD, ADHD, autism, addiction, and substance use/abuse.

Equine-assisted learning does not involve riding.  No previous horse experience is necessary in order to participate.