Who we are
Empowering Growth Through Equine Therapy
What is Equine Assisted Therapy?
Equine assisted therapy is the experience of psychotherapy in a natural setting with the presence of horses. It is particularly helpful for people who don’t like room-based therapy or find it boring. It is great for people who love animals or want to learn to get over a fear of animals. Equine assisted therapy is a trauma-informed therapy. You will not be asked to do anything you are not comfortable with doing. Your session is about keeping you in a safe space whilst gently and gradually exploring difficulties. Horses can also contribute to the therapy by providing a metaphor for clients to perceive their relationships with their self and others.
Do I need to be experienced with horses?
No. Equine assisted therapy is not about being or learning to be a horse expert (although you may find that you start to notice things about horses). In fact, it is a way of letting go of your preconceived ideas of what you should be doing with horses. It is about creating and broadening the lens through which you experience not just horses, but your world.
Can I ride the horses?
Equine assisted therapy is not horse riding or riding lessons. Equine assisted therapy is psychotherapy with the presence of horses. You will be learning to observe and experience the horse’s way of being, observing their movements and behaviours, learning how they self-regulate and relax themselves. Part of equine assisted therapy is learning to apply these skills to areas of your own life.
Is my therapist qualified?
Yes. Your practitioner is certified in their equine assisted therapy practice through the Equine Psychotherapy Institute. This certification is an extension of their mental health degree pathway. Your therapist also has many years of horse experience on top of their mental health qualification.
What conditions can Equine Assisted Therapy help with?
There is a growing body of supportive evidence for equine assisted therapy as effective across a range of mental health or learning difficulties. Most research on equine assisted therapy has been done with people who are experiencing symptoms related to traumatic stress, Veterans (ex-military personnel) in particular. Studies also suggest that equine assisted therapy is helpful for individuals with autism, dementia, children and adults with social difficulties, people who have experienced domestic violence, grief and loss, or low self-esteem. Equine assisted therapy is not suitable for people who are allergic to horses, or are psychotic.
Where are you located?
We are located in the peaceful Gundaroo village, about ½ hour from Dickson, Gungahlin or Majura. Close enough to Canberra city and far enough away from the noise of the freeway or planes taking off. Parents waiting for children/ teenagers can stroll to local cafe’s or the general store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Equine Therapy Answered
Get in touch
If you have any questions or are ready to make a booking, please complete this form, or call me on the number below. I look forward to hearing from you!
Acknowledgement of Country
In the interest of supporting reconciliation, we pay our respects to the Ngunnawal and Ngambri Elders – past present and emerging – the traditional custodians of the land upon which Canberra Equine Assisted Therapy resides.