Working with Trauma with Horses
Post-Traumatic Growth and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy: A Powerful Approach to Healing
Trauma, especially complex trauma (involving multiple pervasive experiences over time), can have profound effects on a person's mental health and well-being. Traditional talk therapy alone may not always be the most effective way to address symptoms. Experiential interventions like EAP activate both the subcortex and the prefrontal cortex of the brain which facilitates effective processing of emotions. Metaphors, as used in EAP, help move new information from the right hemisphere to the older parts of the left hemisphere and then that all gets passed on to the frontal lobe for a final synthesis and integration of the information which equals better learning.
Understanding Trauma-Responsive Therapy
Trauma-responsive therapy is a therapeutic approach that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma on an individual's life. It involves creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore themselves and their experiences and work towards healing. Therapists trained in trauma-responsive care understand the complexities of trauma and its effects on the brain, body, and emotions. Most importantly, providers like our Strides team focus on attunement, meaning they stay in a firm, safe, empathetic space and adapt their approaches to each client’s second-by-second needs.
The Role of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
Horses are highly attuned to human emotions and provide immediate feedback based on the client's behavior and emotions. This can help clients become more aware of their own feelings and thought patterns. Clients focus on observing patterns and belief systems in order to examine what is working, what’s not working so well. Since humans learn through doing, working with horses provides a real-time opportunity to learn and practice things in a meaningful manner.
The Synergy of Trauma-Responsive Therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
Trauma-responsive EAP invites clients to safely have a powerful therapeutic experience. The presence of horses can help clients feel more comfortable and connected in therapy, making it easier to explore difficult emotions related to their trauma. Additionally, the nonverbal nature of interactions with horses can bypass the need for traditional talk therapy, allowing clients to access deeper layers of their trauma.
Benefits of the Combination
Safety and Empowerment: Clients who come to Strides often feel a lack of control over their lives or emotions. Trauma-responsive EAP can help clients regain a sense of empowerment and control as they work through their trauma.
Body-Based Healing: Trauma is not just a psychological experience; it also resides in the body. Equine Assisted Psychotherapy helps clients connect with their bodily sensations and learn to regulate their emotions through interactions with the horses.
Building Trust and Connection: Establishing trust is crucial in trauma therapy. The trusting relationship between the client and the horse can translate into improved relationships with humans, fostering healthier connections in the client's life.
Conclusion
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy focused on Post Traumatic Growth offer a unique and effective approach to healing trauma and complex trauma. By integrating traditional therapeutic techniques with the healing power of the human-horse bond, individuals can embark on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation. If you or someone you know is struggling with trauma, consider exploring the benefits of this innovative therapeutic approach. Strides facilitators are trained and experienced in working with trauma and complex trauma.
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