Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

Integrity House employs the use of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP).

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy is a powerful intervention tool helpful in assisting trouble youth with healing, self-discovery, and positive change. When traditional methods have not produced successful outcomes that people want, and lives seemingly become more "out of control", people look for something that will have a more effective and positive impact in helping to create change. Horses are powerful agents for change. As strange as it may seem, adding a horse to the psychotherapy equation can often be the missing piece.

Why Horses?

They are large and powerful, which creates a natural opportunity for some to overcome fear and develop confidence. The power of horses can work to influence people in incredible ways such as developing healthy relationships, work ethics, communications, and responsibility. EAP addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, abuse issues, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs. EAP is an emerging field in which horses are used as a tool for emotional growth and learning. It is a collaborative effort between licensed therapist, a horse professional, and a five foot tall, 1,000 pound mentor. This 'team approach' is effective in helping youth learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses, and then processing their feelings, behaviors, and patterns. The focus of EAP is not riding or horsemanship. In fact 90% of EAP takes place purely on the ground. The focus of EAP involves setting up activities involving the horses, which will require the client or group to apply certain skills. Non-verbal communication, assertiveness, creative thinking and problem solving, leadership, work, taking responsibility, teamwork and relationships, confidence, and attitude are several examples of the tools utilized and developed by EAP.

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy has the dynamic of utilizing extraordinary animals, with personalities, attitudes, and moods as unique as those of each individual involved. Because of this, EAP produces endless experiences and situations for emotional growth, learning, and healing.

To request free information package feel free to fill out information request form
or call us 1-866-586-Teen (8336) or 1-435-586-Teen (8336) anytime