Therapy with Horses

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy in Seattle, WA

Image of a male smiling and kneeling at the head of a horse after a equine-assisted therapy session at the Equilibrium Therapy offices in Seattle, WA
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Our Approach

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is a is a specialized form of therapy that includes horses in sessions to facilitate therapeutic growth and healing. Horses can teach us a lot about animal (including human!) behavior. When incorporating horses in sessions, we have an opportunity to practice skills like behavior modification, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and even empathy and patience in a controlled, supportive environment with a trusted equine partner. The learning and insights that come from working with horses often stand out to us in our memory, cementing the learning and making it more likely we will take what we learn in session into our day to day lives.

Working with horses enriches traditional therapy in several unique ways:

  • Expanded Relational Dynamics

    In traditional talk therapy, the only relationship in the room is therapist and client. When a horse is present, there is another being to attend to, from which we can learn, model, and understand relationship dynamics like trust and nonverbal communication.

  • Experiential Learning

    We don’t have to wait for situations to arise in our day to day lives for an opportunity to practice skills. Working with horses allows us to practice skills in the moment, allowing for immediate feedback, support, and processing.

  • Somatic Embodiment

    Working with horses allows us to attend to the mind-body connection. Sessions with horses take place in a peaceful, outdoor environment, incorporating movement with the rest of our five senses.

The non-traditional setting of EAP can be especially helpful for folks who identify as neurodivergent, teens who are resistant to therapy, folks who feel burned out with traditional talk therapy, or anyone who could use some time with a nonjudgmental, furry friend. 

—No prior horse experience is necessary, and no riding is involveD—

Image of a herd of horses in a field at an equine-assisted mindfulness retreat in Seattle, WA
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Equine-Assisted Mindfulness Retreats

Equine-Assisted Mindfulness retreats provide an opportunity to reconnect with nature, horses, and each other. Our therapeutic retreats are led by Cory Applegate, LMFT along with horsemanship expert Scot Hansen. 

Through equine-led somatic practices, movement, and meditation, we engage with experiential exercises and skill building in mindfulness, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. We offer an opportunity to disconnect (from problems, technology, and old patterns) and reconnect (with ourselves, nature, and each other). Retreats are held at Flying Horseshoe Ranch in the wild beauty of Cle Elum, Washington, in rustic, “glamping” style accommodations nestled among nature and only 90 minutes outside of Seattle.

No prior experience with horses is necessary, and while all experiences are centered around horses, riding is optional.

Upcoming retreats will be announced soon!

Find Your Balance

We can’t change how life keeps coming at us, but we can find balance, purpose, and meaning.