Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is a mental health therapeutic intervention in which horses are used as a tool for emotional growth, and learning. It is a collaborative effort between a licensed therapist, a horse professional, and a horse.
It is our belief that when individuals interact with horses, and the natural environment, they come to know themselves better. This process is further accelerated when an individual, or group, works with a horse, equine specialist, and a counselor who can aid in the facilitation of individual growth/insight, and positive change. Utilizing exposure to horses in the presence of an equine specialist, and counselor provides individuals with immediate therapeutic process, and intervention.
Painted Horses Equine Assisted Psychotherapy services are designed with the goal to provide counseling in an emotionally safe, and healthy environment. We generally work with a diverse population of individuals with mental, or emotional challenges. April Cloutier, LCSW was the first in Maine to utilize EAP in a private practice. She provides training and supervision to others of whom are interested in learning the model. All Equine Specialists, and Therapists at Painted Horses, LLC are required to have training and supervision here at Painted Horses, LLC by April Cloutier, LCSW. Additional training may be obtained the through EAGALA (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association), or the OK Coral Series, EPONA. Therapist/Counselors are independently licensed with the State of Maine.
[ngg src=”galleries” ids=”1″ display=”pro_mosaic”]Green Therapy
Current studies show that being connected to the world around us can bring use joy, and a sense of belonging. When we feel connected to the world around us, can slow ourselves, experience our senses in a way that is relaxing which may lower anxiety, alleviate depression all of which can promote clearer thinking, creativity, and overall well-being.
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I still have more work to do on this part of Green therapy
time in nature settings helps lower stress, anxiety and depression, boosts positive mood, improves resilience and immune response, increases life expectancy, decreases anger, reduces blood pressure, eases computer fatigue and enhances energy, concentration and cognitive functioning.