At ENGAGE, we saw a need for a different approach to working with our community to improve their lives and well-being.
As avid horse people, we already knew how remarkable these majestic creatures are. Still, lots of research and training with one of the highest-rated equine-assisted services entities in the world showed us the practical side of integrating horses into helping to make changes in humans' lives.
We are trained to implement two methods based on the information we gather from you at our initial intake meeting. The first method follows eagala (Equine Assisted Growth And Learning Association), a global network for equine-assisted services. They require rigorous training, adherence to high ethical standards, and ongoing education for its practitioners. Following their model, we work with local mental health therapists, licensed clinical social workers, life coaches, centers helping children and teens dealing with trauma, even corporations wanting to improve teamwork and hone leadership skills.
The second method uses systems from Natural Lifemanship. This model places connection above all else. Natural Lifemanship's Trauma-Informed Equine Assisted Psychotherapy model is based on trauma-focused research. It centralizes connected relationships in shaping both the experience and recovery from trauma. Following this method, we work with mental health professionals and equine professionals, and our horses complete the treatment team.
Our equine-assisted services are not about learning to ride horses but about connecting to them and learning to connect to others. You don’t have to have any prior training or experience with horses. Some of the best outcomes have happened among people who were fearful of horses and were able to overcome not just that fear but other fears that had put their lives in a state of perpetual anxiety.