Therapy with the Inclusion of Equines

What is Psychotherapy with the Inclusion of Equines?

There can be a lot of misconceptions when it comes to psychotherapy with the inclusion of animals. I have included a brief description below of what I consider to be the most ethical approach to the inclusion of animals in psychotherapy that still offers evidence based theraputic practices.

Psychotherapy with the inclusion of equines is:

A somatic approach to therapy that includes evidence based techniques that draw from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Poly Vagal Theory.
Tintin's participation is often up to him to decide. There may be some days when we incorporate Tintin into therapeutic techniques, but not force him, it's important for him to have some autonomy too.
Your therapy session is held in a lovely outdoor environment (located 15 minutes from Orinda in Briones Regional Park).
The change in environment, and addition of an animal can be a much more welcoming environment for some to process difficult symptoms, emotions, or situations in their lives.

Psychotherapy with the inclusion of equines is not:

The animal acting a therapist.
Horseback riding, or recreational riding. While that can be helpful to some, this type of therapy is done from the ground. We are focusing on therapeutic practices that do not include sitting on Tintin's back.
Forcing participation from the horse, or animal. We want to empower and care for our clients, and animal partners. Just like humans, animals can also have off days, and we do our best to respect that.
I am happy to chat about any questions you might have during your consultation call to see if therapy with the inclusion of animals is a good fit for you and or your family.

a horse acting as a psychotherapist in an office space, cartoon .jpg

Why Include Animals in Psychotherapy?

Including animals can add a level of co-regulation that is more accessible to some folks, then learning to co-regulate from a therapist alone.
Increased level of present moment awareness, and mindfulness.
Motivation for engagement in therapy, therapy can be hard at times, and having an animal join can make the experience more enjoyable for some clients.
We can practice interpersonal communication in real time. Much of our communication with humans is through body language, the same is true with animals.
Practicing therapy in an alternative (outdoor) setting.