Ashalata Equine Therapy

Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Experience (EAGLE) is an emerging form of therapeutic intervention, or skills development, in which horses are used as tools for clients to gain self understanding and emotional growth.  EAGLE recognises the bond between horse and humans and the potential for healing and learning that can occur when a relationship is formed between the two. 

O'Connor. C (2006):  The Silent Therapist: A review of the development of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy:  "... it is the horse's difference to the socialized man that brings about the successes that the traditional therapist cannot achieve.  Horses allow us to unite unconditionally with another living being.  We can take our masks off without fear of rejection.  The horse has no expectations, prejudices or motives.  All of these traits allow the client to open up, reveal their selves and receive feedback from the horse's responses.  This is the key to healing:  expressing true feelings and interactions with another being to develop a true self concept."

EAGLE involves equine ground based activities set up and facilitated by a licensed mental health professional and an equine, or horse, specialist. This TEAM naturally includes a horse or two.  The activities are specific, controlled, produce positive results and involve much more then hanging out with the horses.  These activities require clients to apply a particular skill and are experiential which means you learn by doing.

All activities are ground based and NO horse riding or horse experience is necessary.    

During EAGLE clients place their own emotions and interpretations onto the horse's behaviour, providing an opportunity to process this information and  to compare this to other situations and relationships in their life.  It is a self reflective process creating a metaphorical link to the client's life and provides a safe and non threatening environment that nurtures inner healing and encourages growth and learning. .

It focuses on therapy and personal growth and learning and addresses a number of issues including -  couple and family relationships, skills development, life coaching, teambuilding, parenting issues, trauma work, the grieving process and is part of the Life Orientation curriculum.

We follow the Eagala model and ensure a powerful, interesting and fun therapeutic and educational alternative.