Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
What is EAP?
EAP is an experiential approach to therapy that allows individuals, couples, and families to explore their own patterns, gain insight into their strengths and weaknesses, and enact change in the moment. The benefits of the human-animal bond, specifically with horses, has long been shown to promote healing. EAP allows for the use of horses to help people build their own herds and corral their problems. EAP was formally developed by the founder of the OK Corral Series and EAGALA, Greg Kersten. Our approach follows the OK Corral philosophy of EAP.
Not Just Horse Play
Our ground-based exercises are not designed to teach horsemanship or riding, but rather to explore therapy outside of a traditional medical office. Feeling stuck on the couch or like you can't quite move forward in traditional therapy? EAP may be the next step for you.
Our Team
Our team is made up of a licensed therapist, an equine specialist (as needed), and our horse herd. A variety of horses may be utilized throughout your therapeutic journey.
What to expect
Ground Based Exercises
Ground Based Exercises
Ground Based Exercises
The vast majority of Equine Assisted exercises are done on the ground - there is no riding instruction, need for riding experience, or knowledge of mounted skills. In fact, no horse skills or knowledge is needed at all in EAP.
Professional Services
Ground Based Exercises
Ground Based Exercises
Your sessions will be held with a licensed doctoral-level therapist skilled in addressing a variety of mental health and emotional difficulties. Dr. Burch has years of clinical experience both in the office and in the corral to support your therapeutic goals. You can expect a skilled and seasoned therapist to guide your sessions.
The Horses
Ground Based Exercises
The Horses
Our horse herds take their work seriously, with lots of horsing around and horse play. As part of our therapeutic team, our horse's emotional and physical health comes first, and you may work with a variety of horses over time so that our equine partners can have a good work-life balance.