EAP for VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

EQUINE ASSISTED PSYCHOTHERAPY FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Say equine assisted psychotherapy (EAP) to people and they instantly think assisted riding. However, EAP is in fact much more than that. EAP is an experiential form of therapy using rescued horses to help victims of domestic violence use metaphors to recover from emotional and behavioral problems through participating in activities with the horses. It has been proven to help people improve in self-confidence, conflict resolutions, relationships, and recover from depression, aggression, low self-esteem, and loneliness. It is a phenomenal tool to use for self-empowerment.

Why horses? Horses have a unique ability to read and immediately respond to human verbal and non-verbal communications. With this the horse acts as a mirror for the human participant and they possess an effective ability to confront the attitudes and behaviors that are problematic and through conquering the activities an increased sense of self-esteem, empowerment and self-acceptance. The activities are physical as well as emotional in nature making them a much more dynamic forum for confronting the fear of abuse. Through a series of activities (using rescued horses) constructed by the equine specialist and the psychologist present, the horses and humans interact on the ground in a powerful, emotion-eliciting experience. It is the participant’s interpretation of the interaction that is the catalyst for change.

EAP has been in use for at least thirty years and numerous studies have proven it is more powerfully and efficiently change-making than traditional talk therapy. Through the process of risk-taking the victims develop coping and problem solving skills that define self-competence.

No previous knowledge of horses is necessary. They are a mirror reflection of you. They are there to teach you. EAP has proven to be very effective in addressing issues such as:

FEAR LOW SELF-ESTEEM
MOOD DISORDERS ANGER
SELF-TRUST ALIENATION
DISTRUST ADDICTION
OTHER EMOTIONAL DISTRESS FROM ABUSE

At Turning Point Stable you will be able to experience this powerful form of psychotherapy under the guidance of an EAGALA Certified Equine Specialist, Ardelle Peters and Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Sharon Davern. Ms. Davern has over thirty years of experience in working in the mental health field with trauma including domestic violence. Ms. Peters has over thirty years as an RN. They will be with you and the horses the entire time you participate but will allow you to create your own experiences toward a resolution of your symptoms and form closer, more quality relationships and an empowered life.
For appointment or more information call: 507-657-2540 or 507-534-2668.