Equine Assisted Psychotherapy in Canada

The Eagala Model Brings Candian Mental Health Professionals and Equine Specialists Together

Two horses in an enclosed arena in Canada.

The Importance of Mental Health Awareness in Canada

Mental health is a critical yet often neglected issue in Canada. A recent survey revealed that half of Canadians who meet the criteria for anxiety have not spoken to a professional about their mental health concerns. This highlights the urgent need for greater access to effective mental health care options.

At Eagala, equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) offers an innovative approach to addressing these challenges. EAP combines the therapeutic benefits of working with horses and the guidance of trained mental health professionals to provide a transformative healing experience. Horses, known for their sensitivity and ability to reflect human emotions, create a non-judgmental environment where individuals can gain deeper insight into their emotional state and work through personal challenges.

Eagala-trained specialists in Canada are equipped to help people struggling with issues like anxiety, PTSD, depression, and trauma. The unique nature of EAP makes it a valuable option for those seeking an alternative to traditional therapy. By offering a safe and supportive space, EAP fosters emotional growth and healing, helping more Canadians access the mental health care they need.

Benefits of The Eagala Model

The Eagala Model of equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) provides a range of benefits that can significantly improve a client’s mental and emotional well-being. One key advantage is enhanced emotional regulation, where clients gain greater self-awareness and control over their emotions through their interactions with horses. These sessions also promote better communication skills, particularly in nonverbal cues, helping clients develop empathy and improve how they relate to others.

Additionally, working with horses can increase self-esteem. The sense of connection and accomplishment felt when successfully interacting with the animals often boosts clients’ confidence and self-worth. The calming presence of horses also plays a vital role in reducing anxiety and depression, making EAP a helpful tool for those struggling with these mental health issues.

For individuals recovering from trauma, EAP offers a unique pathway to healing. The non-judgmental, intuitive nature of horses provides a safe space where clients can process their trauma in a supportive, empathetic environment. Overall, the Eagala Model offers a therapeutic experience that helps clients build emotional resilience, gain personal insight, and foster healing in a way that traditional talk therapy may not.

Our Boots-On-The-Ground Model

Our model takes a different approach from traditional horseback riding programs by eliminating riding and horse handling altogether. Instead, clients interact with horses in a natural, free-flowing environment, allowing for authentic exchanges between the individual and the animal. This creates a safe and supportive setting where clients can explore their emotions, develop coping mechanisms, and build resilience.

The beauty of this model is that both the therapist and the client can focus entirely on the therapeutic process, without the need for specialized horseback riding skills. Therapists don’t need to become expert horsemen, and clients can fully engage in their healing journey without the pressure of managing or riding the horse.

Another important aspect of this approach is the opportunity it provides for older horses or those unable to bear riders. These horses, which may no longer be suitable for riding, find a renewed sense of purpose by participating in equine-assisted psychotherapy.

Exterior image of the Prance Pavilion in Ontario Canada.

Bolster Your Mental Health Credentials

Eagala offers specialized training programs for mental health therapists and horse specialists, providing them with the tools to offer equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP). Becoming Eagala certified enhances professional qualifications, allowing therapists to offer clients an innovative therapy option. This certification also helps reach individuals who may not feel comfortable with traditional therapeutic approaches.

Eagala’s certification program equips professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to facilitate effective EAP sessions, blending the therapeutic power of horses with mental health expertise. By becoming certified, therapists can diversify their practice, offering clients a unique form of therapy that allows them to explore emotional and behavioral issues in a non-traditional setting. This approach appeals to individuals who may struggle with traditional talk therapy, providing them with a safe space to connect with their emotions through interaction with horses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Horses possess a unique ability to mirror human emotions and behaviors. Their non-judgmental presence can create a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings. Horses can also provide feedback and challenge clients in ways that traditional therapy might not.

Equine-assisted psychotherapy can be particularly effective for individuals dealing with trauma and PTSD. Horses can help clients develop trust, regulate their emotions, and learn to manage triggers. The experiential nature of the therapy can also provide a sense of empowerment and control.

You can find a list of Eagala-certified therapists on our Programs Page, where we list Eagala certified mental-health professionals all around the world.

Unlike traditional horseback riding programs, clients in Eagala do not ride horses. Instead, they interact directly with the horses, fostering a more intimate and collaborative relationship, focusing on direct, natural interaction, equal footing, client empowerment, and accessibility.

Start Your Journey Today

Enroll in Premier Equine Training Certification Programs.