Eagala Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy Training in Maryland - Eagala
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Eagala Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy Training in Maryland

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

Three horses in a pasture with one horse looking right into the camera.

Mental Health Awareness in Maryland: A Growing Need

Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being, yet it remains a stigmatized and overlooked aspect of healthcare. According to the World Health Organization, an astonishing 1 in 8 people worldwide suffer from a mental health condition. In Maryland, as in many other regions, this statistic translates to a significant number of individuals grappling with a variety of mental health challenges.

Traditional therapeutic approaches, while undoubtedly valuable in many cases, may not be the ideal fit for everyone. Some individuals may find it difficult to connect with a therapist in a traditional setting or may benefit from a more experiential approach to healing. This is where Eagala’s equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) comes in. Our unique model leverages the therapeutic power of horses to help individuals address a wide range of mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, depression, behavioral problems, domestic abuse, and more.

The Eagala Model: A Revolutionary Approach to Mental Health

The Eagala Model of EAP offers a revolutionary approach to mental health treatment that cannot be replicated in a traditional setting. This innovative model harnesses the unique, non-judgmental nature of horses, whose intuitive behaviors enable a deeper and more meaningful level of therapy. Unlike traditional talk therapy, equine-assisted psychotherapy involves interactive experiences with horses that can facilitate significant personal growth and healing.

Horses possess a remarkable 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. Through interactions with horses, clients can gain new insights into themselves and their relationships, develop coping skills, and enhance their self-esteem.

A Boots-on-the-Ground Approach: Leveling the Field

Unlike traditional horseback riding programs, Eagala’s equine-assisted psychotherapy does not involve clients riding horses. Instead, our unique approach places clients and horses on equal footing, literally. Horses are free of reins and are not confined to stalls, allowing them to interact freely and naturally with clients. This boots-on-the-ground approach fosters a more collaborative and authentic therapeutic experience.

By eliminating the power dynamics associated with riding, Eagala creates a level playing field where clients and horses can interact on equal terms. Horses are highly attuned to human emotions and behaviors, and their reactions can provide valuable insights and feedback. By observing and interpreting these reactions, clients can gain a deeper understanding of their own thoughts, feelings, and patterns of behavior.

Eagala professionals play a facilitative role, guiding clients through the therapeutic process without imposing their own interpretations or expectations. This allows clients to develop their own insights and understandings, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.

A horse with it's head over a wooden fence looking at the camera.

Bolstering Mental Health Credentials with Eagala Certification

Eagala certification provides mental health therapists and equine specialists with a unique opportunity to expand their professional expertise and offer their clients a specialized form of therapy. By completing Eagala’s rigorous training program, mental health professionals gain a deeper understanding of non-verbal communication, emotional regulation, and the therapeutic applications of equine interaction.

You are able to provide your clients with a unique and innovative form of therapy that can address a wide range of mental health issues. By offering equine-assisted psychotherapy, these professionals can help clients gain new perspectives, develop coping skills, and enhance their overall well-being. Eagala certification is a valuable asset for mental health professionals seeking to expand their practice and provide their clients with the highest quality of care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Equine-assisted psychotherapy is a therapeutic approach that utilizes horses to facilitate healing and personal growth. It involves interactive experiences with horses that can help individuals address a variety of mental health issues.

No, previous horse riding experience is not required. Eagala’s programs are designed to be accessible to individuals of all skill levels.

Eagala offers a unique and experiential approach to therapy that cannot be replicated in a traditional setting. Horses provide a non-judgmental and supportive presence that can facilitate deeper levels of healing.

Yes, Eagala programs are appropriate for individuals of all ages, including children and adolescents. Eagala-trained professionals are equipped to adapt their approach to meet the specific needs of different age groups.

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