Equine Assisted Learning

Horses break through our defence barriers – either because of their beauty, their speed or simply because they are so big!

The majority of people never come into contact with them. One client said that the only thing he knew about horses was through the bookies. Another was only convinced about the teeth at one end and hard feet at the other. A third only thinks about them associated with the police in inner London . Not very good associations. However, we can transform these negative beliefs into a life changing process.

So why do horses work so well as therapists? They are social animals, like us. They have defined roles within the herd as we do in our lives. They have distinct personalities, attitudes and moods – so what seems to work with one horse does not work with another. Does this sound familiar? In other words horses provide numerous opportunities for metaphorical learning.

To maximise on understanding their and therefore our individuality we always work with two or more horses of various shapes and sizes.

Non-verbal communication assertiveness, creative thinking, problem solving, taking responsibility, team work, confidence and attitude are several examples of skills that can be developed through EAL.

When I have clients asking for Equine Assisted Learning or therapy I work with my colleagues in the Harp Partnership - David O'Malley and Jeni Russell. For further information please see the website www.harppartnership.com