Equine Assisted Therapy

Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT) sometimes referred to as Equine Facilitated Learning, is a therapeutic approach which involves horses and ponies to help individuals with various physical, emotional and mental health needs.

EAT sessions can offer some of our participants the opportunity of sensory interaction and close contact with a horse/pony without riding or carriage driving.

Our participants may be recruited for these sessions because they are unable or unwilling to take part in a mounted session for a variety of reasons but have expressed an interest in horse related activities. There may be medical contraindications that would make riding a horse unsafe or uncomfortable or there may be emotional and behavioural issues that might give cause for concern for the well-being of the participant, horse and team.

The structure of these EAT sessions requires the same attention and planning as a mounted/ridden session, with clear risk assessment, goal setting and plan of intervention. The careful selection of the horse / pony and the team is essential. The welfare of the horse/pony is very important as is the location and the equipment used for the activity. Wheelchair users can also take part in unmounted sessions with due care and attention.

Whilst horse care and stable management activities may form part of the activity, it might be that the purpose and intended outcome of the activity may be different. For example: handling grooming kit may be designed as a tactile and sensory exploration activity rather than learning specifically about the use and application of each item. Touching items with different textures, sizes, shapes and smells can help with tolerance of unfamiliar objects and hand desensitisation which can then carry over into everyday life.

Participants with challenging behaviour often have restricted social relationships and can find it difficult to interact. Working on the ground with a horse can help people begin to learn how to interact and engage.

Equine Assisted Therapy has been proven to significantly improve and emotional wellbeing and mental health. Those who take part in sessions often experience a reduction in stress, anxiety and depression. The bond formed with the horse can increase self-confidence and self-esteem.

By working on the ground with horses in this setting, individuals can learn about emotional regulation and become more self-aware which can assist with managing symptoms of trauma and PTSD.

The setting that we offer encourages a calm environment which is beneficial for mood improvement and managing emotional distress.

Each session is run by our coaches or experienced Activity Leader and is usually on a 1:1 basis. The session, after an assessment will be tailored to each individual participant. For some there is the opportunity to achieve the RDA Progressive awards in Stable Management and Horse Care, whilst other just may wish to spend time with the horses and ponies.

Equine Assisted Therapy or Equine Facilitated Learning for groups/schools.

We may also be able to cater for small groups for this activity. As with the other sessions, there is the opportunity to work through the RDA’s progressive awards in Stable Management and Horse Care. School groups or care homes should contact for information and availability.

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