What is EAP?

EAP is a collaborative effort between a licensed therapist and a trained horse professional that works with clients and horses to address treatment goals. EAP is considered a short-term or a “brief” approach to therapy because it has a high level of intensity.

EAP is an experiential therapy, which means that participants learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses, and the processing of / Talking about feelings, behaviors, and patterns.  EAP has been compared to therapists using ropes courses, but the primary difference is that EAP has an added advantage of utilizing horses, which are dynamic and powerful living beings.

Not all programs or individuals who use horses for growth and learning use EAGALA-model.  Based upon the EAGALA model (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) there needs to be a licensed therapist, a highly trained horse professional, and a horse to complete therapy.  The focus of EAGALA-model EAP is not based upon riding or horsemanship, but is set up around using ground activities with the horse.

At Hope In Life PLLC, the core foundation to the
EAGALA model, includes:

The Team Approach – An Equine Specialist, an EAGALA certified Mental Health professional, and horses work together with clients in all EAGALA sessions

Focus on the ground – All EAGALA sessions are on the ground with horses (no mounted work)

Solution-Oriented – The belief that our clients have the best solutions for themselves forms a foundation for the EAGALA approach.  Rather than instructing or directing solutions, we allow our clients to experiment, problem-solve, take risks, employ creativity, and find their own solutions that work best for them.

Watch the youtube EAGALA video: click here

Code of Ethics – EAGALA has a code of ethics, and a standard of professionalism and ethics.

How does eap help?

EAP benefits the client by presenting an opportunity to build life and social skills that are needed to enhance the client’s life.  This is accomplished by the therapist incorporating tools to help the client, such as; non-verbal communication, assertiveness, creative thinking, problem solving, leadership, taking responsibility, team work, relationship building, confidence building, and attitude improving.

Who can benefit

EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, families, and groups.  Anyone that has mental health or development needs that wants to improve their lives and desires change. The types of conditions and needs that are served include:

• Behavioral needs

• Substance Abuse

• Chemical Dependency

• Depression

• Communication needs

• ADHD/ADD

• Eating Disorders

• Anxiety

• Post Traumatic Stress

• Disorder

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• Emotional Disabilities

• Abuse/Neglect issues

• Relationship problems

• Parenting

• Anger Management