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Equine Assisted Therapy

Equine-assisted therapy is an innovative and effective treatment that can be particularly helpful for individuals who have tried traditional therapies and are looking for something different. This experiential approach uses the relationship between a person and a horse to create a powerful space for healing and personal growth. Horses, with their keen sensitivity and non-judgmental nature, serve as mirrors, reflecting the emotional states and behaviors of those they interact with, helping individuals gain deeper insight into their feelings, actions, and patterns.

For people struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, or attachment challenges, equine-assisted therapy offers a unique and supportive environment to work through difficult emotions. The act of interacting with horses can evoke powerful shifts in emotional awareness and regulation. The process fosters trust, builds self-esteem, and encourages emotional expression—critical elements often hindered by traditional therapies. Working with horses provides immediate, real-time feedback, which can be especially beneficial for those who may feel disconnected from themselves or others, making it a deeply experiential, rather than intellectual, process.

One of the key benefits of equine-assisted therapy is that it allows individuals to engage in the healing process in a nonverbal way, this is especially helpful for children who do not process things verbally like adults. The direct experience of connecting with the horse—whether through grooming, groundwork, or being with—helps clients work through emotional barriers, develop empathy, and establish healthy boundaries. It is particularly effective for those who have found traditional talk therapies challenging or insufficient, offering an alternative way to explore feelings, overcome limiting beliefs, and create positive change.

Equine-assisted therapy can also help build trust, not only with the horse but with others, and provides a safe space to practice new skills in a nurturing environment. Whether you're seeking to address trauma, build resilience, improve emotional regulation, or deepen self-awareness, equine-assisted therapy offers an empowering approach that connects the mind, body, and emotions, guiding you toward healing in a way that feels authentic and meaningful.

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Claire Gavalia MSW, RCSW

Clinical Social Worker and Owner

Address: #136 363 Sioux Road, Sherwood Park, AB

Email: info@equinehaventherapy.ca

Telephone: 587.416.9623

ᓂᑯᑕᐧᓯᐠ ᑲ ᐊᑭᐦᑌᐠ ᐃᔨᓂᐤ ᐃᐦᑖᐃᐧᐣ
(Treaty Six Territory)

© 2025 Equine Haven Therapy Services / All Rights Reserved

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