Frequently Asked Questions Equine Therapy
1
Do I need experience with horses?
No. You don’t need any previous experience with horses. I’ll guide you through everything you need to know, and you’ll be supported to interact with the horses safely and at your own pace.
2
Do I ride the horses?
No. Equine Effect Therapy is all about groundwork and connection. You won’t be riding the horses. Instead, we work alongside them through observation, movement, communication and connection.
3
Can I use my NDIS funding?
Potentially, yes. As an integrated counsellor, sessions may be able to be funded through the counselling supports in your NDIS plan where they meet the NDIS requirements and are related to your goals. Funding arrangements vary between individuals, so I recommend checking your plan or speaking with your plan manager or NDIS contact before commencing.
4
Why does Equine Therapy cost more than traditional counselling?
Working with horses involves much more than the counselling session itself. Horses require ongoing care, feeding, farrier and veterinary care, appropriate facilities, insurance and specialist handling. Your session also includes the time, preparation and resources required to create a safe and therapeutic environment for both you and the horses.
5
What age do you work with?
I work with children from 8 years of age through to adults. Sessions are tailored to the individual’s age, developmental stage, needs and goals.
Equine Effect Therapy may be suitable for people seeking mental health and trauma-informed counselling support, including those experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, emotional dysregulation, difficulties with grounding and connection, or the impacts of trauma.
I also work with people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), including ASD Level 1 and Level 2, and tailor sessions to the individual’s communication, sensory and regulation needs.
There is no set formula, I work phenomenologically. Sessions may involve spending time observing the horses, walking alongside them, grooming, leading, completing groundwork activities or simply being present with them. The horses provide opportunities to explore emotions, relationships, boundaries, communication and regulation in a safe and supported environment.
8
Why horses?
Horses are highly sensitive to body language, energy and changes in their environment. Working with them can provide immediate, non-judgemental feedback and create opportunities to practise regulation, communication, boundaries, trust and connection in a very different way from traditional counselling.
7
What happens during a session?
6
Who is Equine Therapy suitable for?
9
Is Equine Therapy the same as traditional counselling?
Not quite. Counselling remains at the heart of the work, but sessions take place alongside horses and incorporate experiential, equine-assisted activities. This provides another way to explore thoughts, emotions, behaviours and relationships beyond simply sitting and talking.
10
What should I wear to a session?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe, sturdy shoes or boots. You may be outside for much of the session, so dress for the conditions.