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PX Equine Enterprises Inc. & StarrLee Heady LMHC, are proud to collaborate with Sigma Counseling Center to provide the innovative practice of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Equine Interactive Counseling to local clients.
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is an emerging field in which horses are used as a tool for emotional growth and learning. EAP is a collaborative effort between a licensed therapist and a horse professional. Because of its intensity and effectiveness, it is considered a short-term, or "brief" approach.
EAP is experiential in nature. This means that participants learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses, and then processing (or discussing) feelings, behaviors, and patterns. This approach has been compared to the ropes courses used by therapists, treatment facilities, and human development courses around the world. But EAP has the added advantage of utilizing horses, dynamic and powerful living beings.
Not all programs or individuals who use horses practice Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. For one, licensed clinical professionals need to be involved for it to be considered "psychotherapy". The focus of EAP is not riding or horsemanship. The focus of EAP involves setting up ground 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.
EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, families, and groups. 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. (EAGALA.org 2006)
The Facilitating Team of StarrLee Heady LMHC-EAGALA III & Chandra R. Gribble EAGALA I, bring a sharp focus to experiential learning and psychotherapy. Both team members are trained and certified through the Equine Assisted Growth And Learning Association (EAGALA). To learn more about this work please contact the team at:
PXEquine@aol.com
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