Skip to content
Back to the library
🌲
NatureOverview

Equine-Assisted Therapy

Structured work alongside horses, grounding, mirroring, and emotional insight.

Evidence-informedLicensing varies by state
Format
Individual or group
Session
60 to 90 minutes
Touch
optional
Cost
varies

What this experience is like in depth

Equine-Assisted Therapy is a nature-based approach. It is therapy or coaching that involves interaction with horses on the ground (not always riding). It works with the understanding that healing is not only about insight but also about what is felt, witnessed, and released in the body, relationships, and environment. In a session, you engage with horses through observation, grooming, groundwork, or reflection with a facilitator. You will walk beside a horse, groom, touch, complete exercises, or reflect. This is offered either one-on-one or in a group setting, typically 60 to 90 minutes, and touch is optional and always negotiated. People often choose this when they are carrying Trauma, Identity Loss, Family Wounds, and Life Transition. Over time, this work can become a way of relating to yourself with less fear and more capacity.

Who it may help

TraumaIdentity LossFamily WoundsLife Transition

Overview

Therapy or coaching that involves interaction with horses on the ground (not always riding).

What happens during a session

You engage with horses through observation, grooming, groundwork, or reflection with a facilitator.

What you physically do

Walk beside a horse, groom, touch, complete exercises, or reflect.
Typical session length

60 to 90 minutes

Insurance

Rarely covered by insurance. Some sliding-scale options exist, ask.

Questions to ask before booking

  • ?Is this psychotherapy or coaching?
  • ?What is your clinical license?
  • ?What is the safety protocol?

Possible risks & safety notes

The program should clearly state whether it is psychotherapy, coaching, recreation, or horsemanship.

Licensing & who to search for

Licensed equine-assisted therapist (EAGALA or PATH)

Try these search terms:

  • "Licensed equine-assisted therapist"
  • "Equine-assisted psychotherapy"
  • "Horse therapy near me"

Related modalities

Full guide in progress

This entry has the essentials so you can start researching safely. A deeper guide, with history, common myths, FAQs, and further reading, is coming.

Not sure if this is the right fit?

Take the short assessment. It shapes a starting point for what to research first.