The Transformative Power of Equine-Facilitated Therapy: Finding Grounding, Peace, and Fun in theJourney

As a therapist, I have always been driven by the desire to help others. There is something profoundly rewarding about guiding individuals through their struggles, helping them uncover insights and develop coping skills. However, my experience has taken on an exhilarating twist through my work with horses, as an Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy Learning (EFPL) therapist. This unique combination has not only transformed my practice but has also deepened my sense of grounding, peace, and humility.

The Joy of Combining Therapy with Horses

Working as a traditional therapist is fulfilling, but incorporating equine-facilitated therapy has made my work even more enjoyable. Engaging with horses in a therapeutic context allows for a dynamic interplay that transcends conventional talk therapy. The sheer presence of these magnificent animals can evoke emotions and insights that might otherwise remain buried. Their instinctual behaviors provide immediate feedback, making each session an adventure in self-discovery.

The therapeutic process becomes a playful exploration, where clients can interact with horses in ways that spark joy and curiosity. This results in an environment that is less clinical and more vibrant, encouraging clients to express themselves in innovative ways. The laughter and connection that emerge from working with horses create lasting memories, establishing a sense of rapport and trust between the therapist, clients, and the equine partners.

Grounding, Peace, and Humility in Working with Horses

As I engage with horses, I find myself grounding in the present moment. Horses are masters of mindfulness; they live fully in the now, teaching us to appreciate the simplicity of existence. Their ability to mirror emotions invites clients to confront their feelings honestly, allowing for profound moments of clarity.

The humility I gain from working with horses is equally transformative. These gentle giants teach us to respect boundaries, communicate clearly, and be authentic. As an EFPL therapist, I witness firsthand how the relationship between horse and human can reflect the complexities of our emotions and relationships with others. This alignment encourages both clients and myself to approach therapy with a sense of vulnerability and openness, fostering genuine personal growth.

Understanding the Different Modalities: EAGALA, PATH, and EFPL

While the therapeutic benefits of working with horses are well-documented, it’s essential to understand the different modalities that exist within this niche. Among them are EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association), PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship), and EFPL, each with unique approaches and methodologies.

1. EAGALA: This model emphasizes a team approach, often involving both mental health professionals and equine specialists. In EAGALA sessions, clients engage with horses through ground-based activities rather than riding. It focuses on experiential learning and promotes personal growth through the horse-human interaction.

2. PATH: This organization specializes in therapeutic riding and adaptive riding lessons for individuals with disabilities. PATH-certified instructors focus on developing riding skills while addressing physical, emotional, and cognitive needs. This approach can be beneficial but primarily centers around riding as a form of therapy.

3. EFPL: In contrast, EFPL emphasizes a holistic perspective that integrates the therapeutic aspects of interacting with horses without the focus on riding. As an EFPL therapist, I work to create experiences that promote learning and self-discovery, utilizing the equine partner as a therapeutic guide. This method can be particularly impactful for those who may not have an interest in riding but still wish to connect with horses on a deeper emotional level.

The Importance of a Mental Health Clinician Without Therapeutic Riding

One key aspect of EFPL is the importance of having a mental health clinician who does not incorporate therapeutic riding into their practice. While riding can provide physical benefits, it may not suit everyone's therapeutic needs. Those seeking therapy may have varying comfort levels with horses, and for some, the idea of riding can invoke fear or anxiety.

A therapist focused solely on equine-facilitated psychotherapy can create an inclusive environment that prioritizes emotional exploration and personal development. This approach allows for a diverse range of interactions with horses, accommodating clients who may find healing through observation, grooming, or simply being present with the horse rather than riding. By prioritizing emotional connection over riding, the therapy becomes more accessible and tailored to individual needs.

Conclusion: The Journey of Transformation

Being a therapist and working with horses has transformed not only my approach to therapy but also my understanding of what it means to connect, heal, and grow. The laughter, grounding, and humility I experience through equine-facilitated therapy create a joyful and enriching atmosphere for clients.

As we navigate this journey together, we discover the profound impact that horses can have on our emotional well-being.If you are seeking a unique therapeutic experience that transcends traditional boundaries, consider exploring the transformative power of equine-facilitated therapy. Together, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and fun—all guided by the wisdom 

Written By: Lital Diament MA LMFT #56973

Lital offers individual EFPL sessions

In terms of insurance coverage, it's essential to check with your specific provider as policies can vary widely. Some insurance companies may cover EFP under mental health services if it is conducted by a licensed therapist who is certified in both psychotherapy and equine-assisted therapy. In such cases, it is advisable to obtain a detailed letter of medical necessity from your therapist, which can facilitate the approval process for reimbursement. Additionally, some plans may allow for flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs) to be used for related expenses.

If insurance coverage is not available, many practitioners offer a sliding scale fee structure, making EFP more affordable for clients. Out-of-pocket costs can vary depending on location, session length, and the facility, but many programs are committed to making therapy accessible. Additionally, individuals may find that the therapeutic benefits they gain from EFP justify the expense, potentially leading to long-term mental health improvements and overall well-being.

Overall, while exploring insurance options is important, EFP can still be a viable and rewarding investment in personal growth, even when considering out-of-pocket costs.

The Healing Power of Horses: Exploring Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy

In recent years, the field of psychotherapy has embraced innovative methods that deepen the healing process. One such approach, equine facilitated psychotherapy (EFP), harnesses the profound bond between humans and horses to foster mental and emotional well-being. As a certified equine therapist, I am excited to offer one-on-one specialized sessions for adults seeking to explore their mental health through this unique and transformative experience.

The Benefits of Horses for Mental Health

Horses are not just majestic creatures; they are also highly intuitive and sensitive animals. This sensitivity makes them exceptional partners in the therapeutic process. Here are some of the key benefits of engaging with horses in the context of mental health:

1. Non-Judgmental Presence

Horses are incredibly intuitive and can sense human emotions and energy. They respond without judgment, which can create a safe space for individuals to explore their feelings. This non-threatening presence allows participants to be more open and honest, facilitating deeper self-reflection.

2. Grounding and Mindfulness

Working with horses requires a focus on the present moment. As you engage with these magnificent animals, you are invited to become fully present, fostering mindfulness and reducing anxiety. The rhythmic movement of a horse and its natural grace can help ground individuals, allowing them to process emotions in a calm and serene environment.

3. Building Emotional Awareness

Horses' behaviors often reflect the emotions and energy of those around them, acting as a mirror for our inner selves. This unique feedback can promote greater emotional awareness, helping individuals identify feelings they may have suppressed or overlooked. By recognizing how horses react to their emotional state, clients can gain insights into their own mental health.

4. Enhanced Communication Skills

Interacting with horses requires clear communication, both verbal and non-verbal. As participants learn to connect with these animals, they also develop their own communication skills. This can translate into improved interpersonal relationships, as clients become more aware of how they express themselves and interpret others’ cues.

One-on-One Specialized Sessions for Adults

I am thrilled to announce that I am now offering one-on-one specialized equine facilitated psychotherapy sessions exclusively for adults. These sessions are tailored to meet individual needs, enabling participants to explore their unique challenges in a supportive environment. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or simply seeking personal growth, my approach combines traditional therapeutic techniques with the intuitive power of equine connection.

During our sessions, you will have the opportunity to work closely with horses in a serene setting. Together, we will explore your feelings and experiences through activities that encourage interaction with the horse, fostering a rich and meaningful therapeutic journey. Our work will be guided by your goals and aspirations, allowing for a truly personalized experience.

Healing Horses: A Mirror for Self-Reflection

Horses have an extraordinary ability to mirror human emotions. Their responses can reveal aspects of ourselves that we may not be fully aware of. For instance, if a person approaches a horse with tension or anxiety, the horse may respond by becoming uneasy or retreating. Conversely, a calm and confident energy can invite the horse to engage playfully. This mirroring effect can create powerful moments of self-discovery, inviting participants to reflect on their emotional responses and behaviors.

Through these interactions, clients can gain insights into their patterns of thinking and feeling. As we work together, you may find that the horse's reactions become a guide for your own emotional exploration, illuminating areas of your life that may require attention or healing.

Discover Your Path to Healing

Equine facilitated psychotherapy offers a unique pathway to explore mental health and emotional wellness. With the gentle guidance of horses, you can embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. My specialized one-on-one sessions for adults are designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your feelings, gain insights, and cultivate resilience.

If you're ready to take the next step on your healing journey, I invite you to reach out and discover the transformative power of equine facilitated psychotherapy. Together, we can unleash the healing potential that lies within you—guided by the wisdom of these incredible horses.

Feel free to contact me for more details or to schedule your first session. Remember, the journey to mental well-being is best taken one step at a time, and I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Written By: Lital Diament MA LMFT#56973

The Transformative Benefits of Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy Learning

In recent years, mental health professionals have begun to embrace innovative therapeutic practices that go beyond traditional talk therapy. One such approach gaining traction is Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP). This unique form of therapy incorporates horses into the therapeutic process, offering profound benefits for individuals struggling with communication issues, anxiety, PTSD, and a host of other emotional and psychological challenges.

Understanding Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy

At its core, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy blends traditional therapeutic techniques with interactions involving horses. In these sessions, participants engage with horses in various ways—grooming, leading, and even observing their behavior. The presence of the horse creates a safe space where individuals can explore their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in a non-judgmental environment.

Enhancing Communication Skills

For many individuals, especially those who struggle with social anxiety or communication difficulties, expressing thoughts and feelings can be daunting. Horses are incredibly sensitive animals; they respond to emotional cues and body language. This sensitivity provides participants with immediate feedback about their communication styles and emotional states.

Through interacting with horses, individuals learn non-verbal communication skills, which can translate to better interpersonal interactions. The process encourages self-expression and fosters a deeper understanding of how we communicate with others, helping those who struggle with verbal expression to find their voice.

Confronting Anxiety and PTSD

Equine facilitated psychotherapy has also proven beneficial for those dealing with anxiety disorders and PTSD. The calming presence of horses can help ground individuals and reduce feelings of overwhelm. Being in the presence of a horse can be a soothing experience, allowing participants to reconnect with themselves in a way that feels safe and secure.

Horses, being prey animals, are constantly alert to their environment, allowing participants to learn about their own anxiety triggers and responses. This experiential learning can help individuals develop coping strategies and grounding techniques that they can apply in their everyday lives.

Building Distress Tolerance and Emotion Regulation

One of the most significant benefits of EFP is its ability to enhance distress tolerance and emotion regulation. Learning to manage emotions effectively is crucial for mental health, especially for those who might experience intense feelings of anger, sadness, or anxiety. The process of working with horses helps individuals practice self-regulation in real-time.

When participants interact with horses, they often encounter moments of frustration or discomfort—whether it's when a horse doesn’t cooperate as expected or when they feel overwhelmed. These moments provide valuable opportunities to practice coping strategies, recognize their emotional responses, and explore ways to navigate their feelings. As they learn to maintain composure and adapt to the horse's behavior, they build resilience and improve their ability to manage distress in their daily lives.

Creating Connections and Fostering Empathy

Horses are social animals, and their relationships with humans can be incredibly enriching. This dynamic helps foster empathy and connection, two essential components of emotional health. Participants learn to understand the horse’s emotional needs, which can translate into a greater awareness of their own feelings and the feelings of others.

This enhanced empathy can lead to stronger relationships outside of the therapy setting. It allows individuals to develop deeper connections with friends, family, and even colleagues, as they learn to be more in tune with their emotions and the emotions of those around them.

A Holistic Approach to Well-being

Equine facilitated psychotherapy is not just about the emotional benefits; it also encourages physical engagement. The act of caring for and interacting with horses—through grooming, leading, and riding—can promote physical well-being and enhance overall quality of life.

Moreover, the calming nature of horses, combined with the outdoor setting often associated with EFP, can enhance feelings of peace and relaxation, contributing to improved mental health outcomes.

Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy offers a unique, transformative approach to mental health and emotional well-being. By leveraging the innate connection between humans and horses, participants can gain valuable insights into communication, develop effective coping strategies for anxiety and PTSD, and enhance their ability to tolerate distress and regulate emotions.

If you or someone you know is struggling with these issues, considering EFP might be a worthwhile step on the path to healing and self-discovery. As we continue to explore the depths of how animals can aid in our personal growth, it’s clear that the bond between humans and horses can lead to profound changes in our mental health landscape.

Written by:

Lital Diament MA LMFT #56973

Lital offers individual EFPL sessions

In terms of insurance coverage, it's essential to check with your specific provider as policies can vary widely. Some insurance companies may cover EFP under mental health services if it is conducted by a licensed therapist who is certified in both psychotherapy and equine-assisted therapy. In such cases, it is advisable to obtain a detailed letter of medical necessity from your therapist, which can facilitate the approval process for reimbursement. Additionally, some plans may allow for flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs) to be used for related expenses.

If insurance coverage is not available, many practitioners offer a sliding scale fee structure, making EFP more affordable for clients. Out-of-pocket costs can vary depending on location, session length, and the facility, but many programs are committed to making therapy accessible. Additionally, individuals may find that the therapeutic benefits they gain from EFP justify the expense, potentially leading to long-term mental health improvements and overall well-being.

Overall, while exploring insurance options is important, EFP can still be a viable and rewarding investment in personal growth, even when considering out-of-pocket costs.

Healing Through Equine Therapy

My Journey with Horses

As a young child, I remembered feeling a profound connection to horses. I felt connected, calm, grounded, and less stressed whenever I was around them. However, my fear kept me back from wanting to embark on the journey of riding a horse. It would be many years later that I would come to understand the neural circuit that caused me to balk anytime someone asked me to ‘hop on their horse,’ or take a lesson. It was the neural circuit, fear. While I understood neural circuits and the complexities of the brain as well as primary emotions; I did not find the language to help me connect and organize the mind/body approach until I was engaged with the actual horse.

In 2023, I was encouraged to begin horse riding lessons and began to truly connect how my emotions informed the horse and vice a versa. My body and my mind began to make informed decisions based on my inner compass. Often, this led me to take even deeper breathes, pauses, and further my research for answers, helping guide me to a lifelong bond. I soon became a horse owner and then, three months later, my horse passed of complications. Growing frustrations arose with what they call ‘the horse community’ and my search for another horse quickly began.

In 2024, I embarked on a transformational journey through the H.E.A.L. Model with Leigh Shambo, MSW, LPCC (https://humanequinealliance.com/the-heal-model/).  With Leigh’s absolute love for equine facilitated psychotherapy learning, her passions for healing, and her encouraging words; I had dived into her course and soon became certified as a ‘Bronze EFPL Facilitator.’ Unraveling all the intricacies of the pathways, Leigh truly helped me combine my love for psychotherapy and my equal love towards the equine. I whole-heartedly began to communicate with my own POA (Pony of Americas) and found joy in helping clients understand just how informative Equine therapy can be. With instruction and direction, I am now able to help people develop distress tolerance skills by providing a safe environment to explore emotions and behaviors. Clients can now see how non-judgmental a horse truly is. How a horse does not care what you wear, how you look, or even understand the concept of “punishment.” My clients can now feel understood, which can help them process difficult emotions. To me, that was and is everything.

To learn more about Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy Learning (EFPL) and how you can incorporate this into your own healing, please reach out to MontanaTherapyForMoms.

Lital Diament MA LMFT #56973 offers individual sessions as well as intensives to help you further your healing journey and find meaningful connections with horses.

Written by: Lital Diament MA LMFT#56973