Equine Assisted Developmental Programs
The Right Step is pleased to offer Equine Assisted Developmental Programs. These programs utilize the relationship between horses and humans as a tool to support the therapeutic approaches within the Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) fields. In these programs the participant will learn through guided interactions and experiences with the horse. The participant in these programs not required to have any knowledge of horses, horsemanship or riding experience. In fact in these programs the participants do not ride the horses , this is called ground based work. The EAP and the EAL fields utilize the same fundamental approach of learning through interaction with the horse.
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP)
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) programs generally deal with modes of equine programs which use horse as tools in the treatment of psychological issues and disorders. This is a new field which has increasing numbers of certified organizations and program structures. The program offered within The Right Step is the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) model practice. This model practice uses a team approach which includes a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) and an equine specialist (ES). The program uses the nature of horses and their interaction with humans as a tool to aid in the treatment of psychological issues. Sessions activities are developed and conducted based upon the overall treatment plan as directed by the therapeutic team. The relationship between the horse and client combined with directed activities provides the therapeutic team with an additional tools for evaluation and treatment.
Equine Assisted Learning (EAL)
Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) programs encompass modes of equine programs in which a Equine
Specialist uses horses for the development and education of participants on a variety of fronts. The goals of these programs are broad in nature and tend to address more behavioral and social life skills. EAL programs are not therapy as defined by EAP/EAGALA, but utilize the same basic processes for the program. Depending on the needs of the participant the equine specialist may be teamed with a general counselor. The equine assisted learning model helps individuals better understand themselves and others through participation in activities with the horses and then discussing reactions, behaviors and patterns. The discussions with the participant seeks to bridge the horse activities from the arena back to “real life.” The participant will be guided to reflect, generalize, and apply new insights from each session. EAL can help the participants become better team players, develop problem solving skills, improve leadership skill, communicate more effectively, build healthier relationships, and enhance life skills.
Matthew J. Dvornak
Director/Instructor for Equine Assisted Developmental Programs.
