ABOUT Equine Facilitated Wellness
Horses are amazingly sensitive animals considering their size. When we work closely with them, we are given a unique opportunity to become more self-aware and self-reflective because we begin to see our own behaviours mirrored by the horse, and we see that the way we behave and interact with the horse affects its own behaviour.
Working with horses helps us become grounded in ourselves, and offers a calm and gentle approach to exploring the complexities of our lives and the traumas we may have experienced with an animal who provides us with unconditional love. People who would like to try an alternative to traditional counselling will enjoy the quiet approach offered by working with horses. Horses do not probe or require us to talk at all; their presence alone is often healing.
How it Works
You will be given the opportunity to choose which ever horse to work with that you are most drawn to. Each of the horses have unique personalities and histories of their own, and you may discover that you connect deeply with one of them on some level. It is often an interesting and informative experience discussing what drew you to the horse and how your own stories and personalities are connected.
Once you have chosen your equine partner, we will begin exploring how your own behaviours and interactions with the horse affect its relationship to you, and how its own behaviours affect your relationship to it as well. Horses are sentient beings and are always given room to express themselves in our sessions so that we can learn from them and learn about ourselves in their presence.
FAQ
How much does a session cost?: Fees vary depending on location. Please contact me about your specific situation.
Does it cost more to work with horses?: No, the fee is the same whether you would like to work with horses or in other experiential ways.
How long is a session?: Generally individual sessions last 1 hour, but group sessions and workshops will vary.
Do I get to pick my horse?: Yes, once safety considerations are assessed, we will talk about each of the horses and learn about their own stories, and you will be given the opportunity decide which horse you are most drawn to working with.
Do I need to have any experience with horses?: No, we will only be working with horses on the ground, and you are not required to have any previous experience being around horses. If you have fear about horses, you may like to address your fear with me in our sessions.
What should I wear to a horse wellness session?: You will need to wear close-toed, comfortable footwear and long pants. Helmets will be provided.
Who should come to counselling?: Everyone can benefit from the assistance and guidance of a counsellor. People who want to improve their overall wellness and may feel stuck in some area of life will enjoy exploring how to move forward into new ways of being. People who would like to try something different to traditional talk counselling may find this approach more relevant to them.
How can I access counselling?: I am on the First Nations Health Authority approved councillor list. You can access my services through your community health centre provided you have a status card.