Equine Therapy is an experiential, evidence-based therapy involving horses. The client works with the horses, along with a certified horse specialist and therapist, to help achieve the client’s goals. EAP is appropriate for individuals of all ages, as well as groups, families, and couples.
Ideal for kids and families struggling with:
- Addiction
- ADHD
- Autism
- Eating Disorders
- Family Conflict
- Learning Disabilities
- Social Anxieties
Through a series of activities, participants identify with the horses and learn how to better communicate with others. Participants work on problem-solving games, such as moving the horse through an obstacle course. Activities help clients learn to trust their thought processes as well as work in a team to think and act outside their comfort zone.
Equine Therapy increases empathy through grooming activities and caring for the horses. The horses keep the participants in the moment, focused on a task, and completely honest. All EAP sessions are facilitated by a licensed therapist or a Marriage and Family Therapist Intern under the supervision of a BBS licensed supervisor.
BIG Heart Ranch in Malibu, California, is a facility specializing in healing youth and adults struggling with mental health and everyday issues through Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and Equine Assisted Growth and Learning (EAGL). Cofounder Suzi Landolphi is certified in EAP, and cofounder and Program Director Brian Goldberg is a Certified Equine Specialist. Together with their staff and animals, they provide various animal-assisted therapies.