Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) can be closely linked to concepts from Transactional Analysis (TA), a psychological theory developed by Eric Berne that explores how people interact with each other and the internal psychological states that drive these interactions. 

Here’s how EAP connects to key TA concepts: 

1. Ego States (Parent, Adult, Child)

In TA, the Parent, Adult, and Child ego states represent different aspects of our personality. EAP often brings these ego states to the surface in a non-verbal and experiential way. For instance:

Parent Ego State: 

When an individual interacts with a horse, they may unconsciously adopt nurturing or critical behaviours that reflect their internalised "Parent" state. 

Adult Ego State:

The logical, problem-solving "Adult" state is engaged when participants make decisions about how to approach, communicate with, or care for the horse. 

Child Ego State:

The "Child" state can emerge through playful, spontaneous interaction with the horse, or it might surface as fear or vulnerability, especially in those who have experienced trauma. 

2. Transactions

Transactions in TA refer to the communication exchanges between people. In EAP, transactions occur between the participant and the horse, with the horse responding to the participant’s emotional state, body language, and energy. These non-verbal transactions can provide insight into the participant’s habitual patterns of interaction, helping them become aware of unconscious behaviours and tendencies. 

3. Strokes

In TA, "strokes" refer to the recognition or attention one person gives to another, which can be positive or negative. In EAP, horses offer "strokes" through their responses to participants—whether it’s through physical closeness, a gentle nudge, or avoidance. These interactions can help participants understand their need for positive reinforcement and how they give or receive "strokes" in their relationships with others. 

4. Life Scripts

Life scripts in TA are unconscious life plans made in childhood, based on early decisions and reinforced by parents and significant others. EAP helps individuals recognize and potentially rewrite these scripts. As participants engage with horses, they may begin to notice patterns that reflect their life script, such as feelings of inadequacy, fear of rejection, or the need to control. The experiential nature of EAP allows participants to experiment with new behaviours, challenging and reshaping their scripts in a safe environment.

5. Games

TA describes "games" as repetitive, unconscious patterns of behaviour with a hidden agenda, often leading to negative outcomes. In EAP, horses often disrupt these games by responding in ways that reveal the underlying dynamics. For example, if a participant tries to control or manipulate the horse as part of a psychological "game," the horse’s reaction might expose the futility or dysfunction of this behaviour, encouraging the participant to explore healthier interactions. 

6. Autonomy (Awareness, Spontaneity, Intimacy)

TA emphasises achieving autonomy through awareness, spontaneity, and intimacy. EAP fosters these qualities by encouraging participants to be fully present (awareness), to engage with the horse in the moment without pretence (spontaneity), and to build genuine, trusting connections (intimacy). The non-judgmental presence of the horse helps participants explore and express these aspects of autonomy in a tangible, immediate way. 

7. Psychological Positions

TA discusses the concept of psychological positions, like "I’m OK, You’re OK," which represents a healthy, balanced perspective. EAP can help participants shift their psychological position by reflecting the state of the horse-human relationship. For instance, if a participant tends to see themselves as "not OK" and others (including the horse) as "OK," the EAP process can help them develop a more balanced view of themselves and their relationships. 

In summary, EAP offers a powerful, experiential way to engage with and apply the concepts of Transactional Analysis. By working with horses, participants can gain insight into their ego states, transactional patterns, life scripts, and more, allowing them to foster personal growth and develop healthier, more autonomous ways of relating to themselves and others.

Bibliography

Berne, E. (2016). Transactional analysis in psychotherapy: A systematic individual and social psychiatry. Pickle Partners Publishing.

Clarkson, P. (1992). Transactional Analysis Psychotherapy: An Integrated Approach (1st ed.). Routledge. 

Draaisma, R. (2017). Language signs and calming signals of horses: recognition and application. CRC Press.

Grandin, T., & Johnson, C. (2009). Making Animals Happy: How to Create the Best Life for Pets and Other Animals. Bloomsbury.

Kain, K. L., & Terrell, S. J. (2018). Nurturing resilience: Helping clients move forward from developmental trauma--An integrative somatic approach. North Atlantic Books.

Paton, P. (2013). Temple Grandin and the Neuroscience of Empathy. JAC, 352-363.

Rees, L. (2017). Horses in company. The Crowood Press.

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is linked to Mentalization-Based Treatment (MBT) through its emphasis on enhancing the participant's ability to mentalize—that is, to understand and interpret the mental states of themselves and others. 

Both approaches focus on improving emotional regulation, self-awareness, and relational dynamics by encouraging participants to reflect on their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. 

Here’s how EAP aligns with and supports the principles of MBT: 

1. Enhancing Mentalization

Understanding Intentions and Emotions:

MBT is centred on the capacity to mentalize, which involves recognizing and making sense of the mental states (beliefs, desires, feelings) that underlie one's own and others’ behaviours. In EAP, participants are encouraged to observe and interpret the horse’s behaviour, which acts as a mirror for their own internal states. The horse’s reactions provide immediate feedback, prompting participants to reflect on how their emotions and actions might be influencing the horse, thereby enhancing their mentalizing abilities. 

Mind-Body Connection:

Both MBT and EAP emphasise the importance of connecting thoughts and feelings with physical sensations. In EAP, the physical presence of the horse and the participant’s bodily responses during interactions (e.g., tension, relaxation) help ground mentalization in the body. This somatic aspect of EAP complements MBT’s goal of integrating cognitive and emotional experiences. 

2. Non-Verbal Communication and Reflective Functioning

 Interpreting Non-Verbal Cues:

Mentalization often involves interpreting non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, to understand the underlying mental states of others. EAP provides a unique context for this as horses primarily communicate non-verbally. Participants must pay close attention to the horse’s body language and movements to understand its “mental state,” which helps them develop their ability to mentalize non-verbal cues in human interactions as well.

Reflective Functioning:

Reflective functioning is a key component of mentalization, referring to the ability to reflect on one’s own mental states and those of others. In EAP, participants are encouraged to reflect on their own feelings and thoughts as they interact with the horse, considering how these might influence the horse’s behaviour. This reflective process enhances the participant's capacity for mentalization, especially in understanding the interplay between their internal experiences and external behaviours. 

3. Attachment and Relational Dynamics

Attachment-Informed Interactions:

MBT is rooted in attachment theory, which emphasises the importance of secure attachment relationships for developing mentalization skills. EAP, with its focus on the relationship between the participant and the horse, mirrors this dynamic. The horse often acts as a secure base, allowing participants to explore and reflect on their attachment patterns in a safe and supportive environment. This relationship helps participants practise mentalizing within an attachment context, which is crucial for individuals with attachment-related difficulties. 

Building Trust and Connection:

Horses are highly sensitive to the emotional states of humans and respond accordingly. This responsiveness encourages participants to engage in mentalization, as they must consider how their mental and emotional states affect the horse’s behaviour. Through repeated interactions, participants can improve their ability to build trust and connection, skills that are central to both MBT and healthy relational functioning. 

4. Managing Arousal and Emotional Regulation

Emotion Regulation:

Both EAP and MBT emphasise the importance of managing arousal and regulating emotions to maintain effective mentalization. In EAP, interactions with the horse can elicit strong emotional responses, providing opportunities for participants to practise regulating their emotions in real-time. This is particularly important in MBT, where maintaining a stable emotional state is necessary for effective mentalization. 

Understanding the Impact of Arousal on Mentalization:

High levels of emotional arousal can impair the ability to mentalize, a concept central to MBT. EAP provides a live context where participants can observe this phenomenon—if they become too anxious or agitated, the horse may respond in kind, leading to a breakdown in communication. Recognizing this dynamic helps participants understand how their emotional states can impact their ability to understand themselves and others, reinforcing the need for emotion regulation as part of mentalization. 

5. Experiential Learning and Reflection

Learning Through Experience:

EAP provides an experiential learning environment where participants can actively engage in mentalization rather than just discussing it abstractly. By working directly with the horse, participants have to constantly interpret and respond to the animal's behaviour, which fosters a deeper understanding of their own mental states and those of the horse. This experiential aspect of EAP supports the MBT process, where learning to mentalize is best achieved through real-world practice rather than theoretical discussion alone. 

Reflection on Actions and Intentions:

After interactions with the horse, EAP often includes a debriefing process where participants reflect on their actions, thoughts, and feelings during the session. This reflective practice is akin to the process in MBT, where individuals are encouraged to think about the motivations behind their behaviours and the behaviours of others, deepening their understanding of mental states. 

6. Developing a "Not-Knowing" Stance

Curiosity and Openness:

A key aspect of MBT is adopting a "not-knowing" stance, where individuals approach their thoughts and interactions with curiosity and openness, rather than certainty. EAP naturally fosters this attitude, as participants cannot predict exactly how the horse will respond to them. This uncertainty encourages them to remain open and curious, continually mentalizing to better understand the horse’s reactions and their own responses. 

In summary, EAP is linked to Mentalization-Based Treatment (MBT) through its emphasis on enhancing reflective functioning, understanding non-verbal communication, managing emotional arousal, and fostering secure attachments. The experiential nature of EAP allows participants to actively engage in the process of mentalization, making abstract concepts tangible and directly applicable to their everyday lives.

Bibliography

Allen, J. G., & Fonagy, P. (Eds.). (2006). The handbook of mentalization-based treatment. John Wiley & Sons.

Bateman, A. W., & Fonagy, P. (2004). Mentalization-based treatment of BPD. Journal of personality disorders, 18(1), 36-51.

Draaisma, R. (2017). Language signs and calming signals of horses: recognition and application. CRC Press.

Grandin, T., & Johnson, C. (2009). Making Animals Happy: How to Create the Best Life for Pets and Other Animals. Bloomsbury.

Kain, K. L., & Terrell, S. J. (2018). Nurturing resilience: Helping clients move forward from developmental trauma--An integrative somatic approach. North Atlantic Books.

Paton, P. (2013). Temple Grandin and the Neuroscience of Empathy. JAC, 352-363.

Rees, L. (2017). Horses in company. The Crowood Press.

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is closely linked to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, as both approaches emphasise mindfulness, emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance. 

Here's how EAP aligns with and enhances the core skills taught in DBT: 

1. Mindfulness

Mindfulness in DBT involves being fully present in the moment, observing and describing experiences without judgement. In EAP, participants must be mindful of their interactions with the horse. Horses are highly attuned to human emotions and body language, requiring participants to be fully present and aware of their own emotional states and behaviours. This real-time feedback from the horse encourages participants to practise mindfulness as they notice how their thoughts, emotions, and physical presence impact the horse and the therapeutic process. 

2. Emotional Regulation

DBT teaches skills to help individuals identify, understand, and manage their emotions. In EAP, horses often mirror the emotional states of participants, providing an external reflection of internal emotional experiences. This can help individuals become more aware of their emotions and practice regulating them in a supportive environment. For instance, if a participant is feeling anxious, the horse may respond by becoming agitated, offering an opportunity to practise calming techniques and emotional regulation strategies in real-time. 

3. Distress Tolerance

Distress tolerance in DBT involves learning to tolerate and survive crises without making things worse. EAP provides a unique opportunity to practise distress tolerance in a controlled, therapeutic setting. Interacting with a large, powerful animal like a horse can evoke feelings of fear, frustration, or helplessness. Through EAP, participants can practise using DBT skills such as self-soothing, grounding, and acceptance to manage these distressing emotions without resorting to maladaptive behaviours. 

4. Interpersonal Effectiveness

DBT's interpersonal effectiveness skills focus on maintaining healthy relationships, asserting needs, and setting boundaries. In EAP, participants must engage in clear, assertive communication with the horse to achieve desired outcomes, such as guiding the horse to complete a task. This non-verbal communication requires participants to be direct, confident, and respectful, mirroring the assertiveness and boundary-setting skills taught in DBT. Additionally, the relational aspect of working with horses can help participants explore and improve their interpersonal dynamics, both in the therapy setting and in their broader relationships. 

5. Walking the Middle Path (Dialectical Thinking)

One of the core components of DBT is dialectical thinking—holding two seemingly opposite ideas simultaneously and finding a balance between them. EAP naturally fosters this kind of thinking. For example, participants may need to balance firmness with gentleness when working with a horse, embodying both assertiveness and empathy. This mirrors the dialectical approach of DBT, where clients learn to balance acceptance of themselves with the need for change. 

6. Self-Validation

DBT encourages self-validation—acknowledging and accepting one's feelings and experiences as real and legitimate. In EAP, the non-judgmental nature of horses helps participants practise self-validation. Horses respond authentically to the emotions and behaviours of participants without judgement, providing a safe space for individuals to experience and validate their emotions. This experiential learning can reinforce the DBT skill of self-validation, helping participants to trust and accept their internal experiences. 

7. Chain Analysis and Behavioural Change

In DBT, chain analysis involves identifying the sequence of events that lead to problematic behaviours, with the goal of changing these patterns. EAP can facilitate this process by providing immediate, visible feedback on the participant’s behaviours and their effects on the horse. This allows participants to see the consequences of their actions in real-time, offering a concrete way to understand and alter maladaptive behavioural patterns. 

8. Radical Acceptance

Radical acceptance is a DBT skill that involves fully accepting reality as it is, without trying to fight or change it. EAP provides opportunities for practising radical acceptance, especially when participants face challenges or unexpected behaviours from the horse. By accepting the horse’s behaviour and the therapeutic process as they are, participants can learn to apply this acceptance to other areas of their lives. 

In summary, EAP complements and reinforces DBT skills by providing a hands-on, experiential approach to practising mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. The presence of the horse as a co-therapist offers immediate, authentic feedback that helps participants internalise and apply DBT skills in a meaningful and embodied way.

Bibliography

Draaisma, R. (2017). Language signs and calming signals of horses: recognition and application. CRC Press.

Grandin, T., & Johnson, C. (2009). Making Animals Happy: How to Create the Best Life for Pets and Other Animals. Bloomsbury.

Kain, K. L., & Terrell, S. J. (2018). Nurturing resilience: Helping clients move forward from developmental trauma--An integrative somatic approach. North Atlantic Books.

Linehan, M. (2014). DBT? Skills training manual. Guilford Publications.

Lozier, C. (2018). DBT Therapeutic Activity Ideas for Working with Teens: Skills and Exercises for Working with Clients with Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Other Emotional Sensitivities. Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

Paton, P. (2013). Temple Grandin and the Neuroscience of Empathy. JAC, 352-363.

Rees, L. (2017). Horses in company. The Crowood Press.

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) can be effectively linked to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) principles, enhancing the understanding and application of CBT techniques through experiential, hands-on interaction with horses. 

Here's how EAP aligns with and supports key CBT concepts: 

1. Identifying and Challenging Negative Thought Patterns

CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress and maladaptive behaviours. In EAP, participants often project their thoughts and feelings onto the horse. For instance, a participant might interpret a horse's behaviour as rejection or aggression based on their cognitive distortions (e.g., "The horse doesn’t like me" or "I’m not good enough to handle this situation"). With guidance from the therapist, participants can recognize these negative thought patterns, explore their origins, and challenge them in real-time, leading to cognitive restructuring.

2. Behavioural Experiments

CBT often uses behavioural experiments to test the validity of a client’s beliefs. EAP provides a unique, real-world setting for these experiments. For example, a participant who believes they are powerless or unable to assert themselves can test this belief by engaging in activities with the horse that require leadership and assertiveness. The horse’s response serves as immediate feedback, helping the participant gather evidence to either confirm or disprove their beliefs, promoting behavioural and cognitive change. 

3. Exposure Therapy

Exposure therapy is a CBT technique used to help individuals confront and overcome their fears. EAP can serve as a form of exposure therapy, particularly for individuals with anxiety, trauma, or phobias. Working with horses may initially trigger fear or discomfort, but through gradual and controlled exposure in a supportive environment, participants learn to manage and reduce their fear responses. The process of approaching, handling, and building a relationship with a horse can help desensitise participants to their fears and build confidence.

4. Mindfulness and Present-Focused Awareness

While traditionally associated with DBT, mindfulness is also a component of CBT, particularly in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). In EAP, participants must be fully present and aware of their thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations, as horses respond to subtle cues in human behaviour. This practice of present-focused awareness helps participants develop mindfulness skills, which can reduce rumination, improve emotional regulation, and enhance the effectiveness of CBT interventions. 

5. Cognitive Restructuring

Cognitive restructuring in CBT involves identifying and challenging distorted thoughts to replace them with more balanced and accurate ones. In EAP, the horse’s behaviour often challenges participants’ automatic negative thoughts. For example, if a participant believes, "I’m not capable of calming myself down," but successfully calms a nervous horse, they receive

concrete evidence that contradicts their negative belief. This experience can facilitate cognitive restructuring, helping participants to develop more adaptive thought patterns.

6. Problem-Solving and Decision-Making

CBT emphasises the development of problem-solving skills to help individuals manage life’s challenges. EAP naturally involves problem-solving and decision-making, as participants must figure out how to effectively communicate with the horse, overcome obstacles during activities, and achieve therapeutic goals. These hands-on experiences allow participants to practise and refine their problem-solving skills in a supportive, real-world context, reinforcing CBT strategies.

7. Behavioural Activation

Behavioural activation is a CBT technique used to increase engagement in positive activities to combat depression and improve mood. EAP encourages participants to engage in purposeful, goal-directed activities with horses, which can lead to a sense of accomplishment, increased motivation, and improved mood. The physical activity involved in working with horses also contributes to the overall well-being of participants, reinforcing the principles of behavioural activation.

8. Developing Coping Skills

CBT teaches coping skills to manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges. EAP provides a dynamic environment where participants can practise and refine these skills. For example, learning to stay calm and focused while leading a horse through a challenging task can directly translate to managing stress in other areas of life. The horse’s immediate feedback helps participants see the effectiveness of their coping strategies and adjust them as needed.

9. Reinforcement and Positive Change

CBT emphasises the role of reinforcement in behaviour change. In EAP, positive changes in behaviour are often reinforced by the horse’s responses. For example, when a participant approaches a task with calmness and confidence, the horse may respond by becoming more cooperative and attentive, which reinforces the participants behaviour and encourages them to continue using these positive approaches in other aspects of their life.

Bibliography

Draaisma, R. (2017). Language signs and calming signals of horses: recognition and application. CRC Press.

Farrand, P. (Ed.). (2020). Low-intensity CBT skills and interventions: a practitioner′ s manual. Sage.

Grandin, T., & Johnson, C. (2009). Making Animals Happy: How to Create the Best Life for Pets and Other Animals. Bloomsbury.

Kain, K. L., & Terrell, S. J. (2018). Nurturing resilience: Helping clients move forward from developmental trauma--An integrative somatic approach. North Atlantic Books.

Paton, P. (2013). Temple Grandin and the Neuroscience of Empathy. JAC, 352-363.

Rees, L. (2017). Horses in company. The Crowood Press.

Sank, L. I., & Shaffer, C. S. (2012). A therapist’s manual for cognitive behavior therapy in groups. Springer Science & Business Media.

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) links with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in several ways, particularly through shared principles like mindfulness, acceptance, values-based living, and experiential learning. 

Here’s how EAP aligns with and supports the core components of ACT: 

1. Mindfulness and Present-Moment Awareness

ACT emphasises mindfulness, encouraging individuals to stay present and fully engaged with their current experience, rather than getting caught up in thoughts about the past or future. In EAP, mindfulness is naturally integrated into the therapy as participants must be fully present to interact effectively with the horse. Horses are highly sensitive to human emotions and non-verbal cues, requiring participants to be aware of their thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations in the moment. This real-time feedback from the horse encourages participants to practise mindfulness, helping them stay grounded in the present. 

Acceptance of Thoughts and Emotions

ACT promotes the acceptance of thoughts and emotions, rather than avoiding or suppressing them. In EAP, participants often encounter challenging emotions, such as fear, frustration, or anxiety, when interacting with horses. Rather than avoiding these emotions, EAP encourages participants to acknowledge and accept them as part of the therapeutic process. This aligns with ACT’s principle of acceptance, helping individuals develop a more open and flexible approach to their internal experiences. 

3. Defusion Techniques

Cognitive defusion in ACT involves creating distance from unhelpful thoughts, allowing individuals to see them as just thoughts rather than as truths that must dictate their behaviour. In EAP, participants may project their thoughts onto the horse, such as assuming the horse is reacting negatively because of something they’ve done. Through interaction with the horse, participants can learn to observe these thoughts without becoming entangled in them, which mirrors ACT’s defusion techniques. The horse’s behaviour often provides a reality check, helping participants to see their thoughts from a more detached perspective.

4. Values Clarification and Values-Based Action

ACT encourages individuals to identify their core values and take committed action towards living in accordance with those values. EAP can help clarify and reinforce these values through experiential learning. For example, working with a horse might highlight the importance of values such as patience, persistence, or compassion. The therapy setting provides opportunities for participants to practise living according to their values in real-time, such as by demonstrating commitment to a task with the horse, despite challenges. This experiential practice of values-based action reinforces the ACT process. 

5. Committed Action and Behavior Change

ACT focuses on taking committed action towards meaningful goals, even in the presence of difficult thoughts and emotions. EAP offers a practical, hands-on environment where participants can practise taking such action. For instance, a participant might work with a horse to complete a challenging task, learning to persist and take action despite fear or self-doubt. This mirrors the ACT process of committing to value-driven actions, reinforcing the concept that meaningful change often involves stepping out of one’s comfort zone. 

6. Experiential Avoidance and Willingness

A key target in ACT is reducing experiential avoidance—the tendency to avoid unpleasant thoughts, feelings, and experiences. EAP naturally confronts participants with situations where avoidance is not possible, such as when they need to interact directly with the horse. This setting encourages a willingness to experience discomfort (e.g., fear of failure, anxiety about being judged by the horse or therapist) in the service of personal growth and learning. Over time, participants may develop greater willingness to experience their emotions and thoughts without needing to avoid them, which is a core goal of ACT. 

7. Self-as-Context

ACT introduces the concept of self-as-context, which involves viewing oneself as the observer of thoughts and feelings, rather than being defined by them. In EAP, participants often experience shifts in their sense of self as they engage with the horse. The process of interacting with the horse, observing its reactions, and reflecting on their own responses can help participants develop a broader, more flexible sense of self. They learn to see themselves as separate from their thoughts and emotions, similar to the ACT concept of self-as-context. 

8. Building Psychological Flexibility

The overarching goal of ACT is to enhance psychological flexibility—the ability to stay in the present moment, open up to experiences, and take action guided by values. EAP contributes to this by providing a dynamic and responsive environment where participants must continually adapt to the horse’s behaviour, stay mindful, and make value-driven choices. This experiential aspect of EAP helps build the psychological flexibility that ACT aims to foster, as participants learn to navigate challenges with a flexible, open mindset. 

9. Behavioural Activation

While behavioural activation is more associated with CBT, in ACT, taking action in alignment with values is crucial. EAP is inherently action-oriented, requiring participants to engage in physical, goal-directed tasks with the horse. These tasks can reinforce the importance of taking meaningful action, even when it’s difficult, which is a key element of ACT’s approach to building a meaningful life. 

10. Metaphorical Learning

ACT often uses metaphors to help clients understand complex psychological concepts. EAP, by its nature, is rich with metaphorical learning. The horse and the participant's interactions can serve as metaphors for real-life situations. For example, how a participant leads or follows a horse might metaphorically represent how they lead or follow in their own life. These metaphors help solidify the lessons of ACT, making abstract concepts more tangible and easier to apply. In summary, EAP is linked to ACT through its emphasis on mindfulness, acceptance, values-based action, and experiential learning. 

By engaging directly with horses in a therapeutic setting, participants can practise and internalise ACT principles in a way that is immediate, embodied, and often more impactful than traditional talk therapy alone.

Bibliography

Blackledge, J. T., & Hayes, S. C. (2001). Emotion regulation in acceptance and commitment therapy. Journal of clinical psychology, 57(2), 243-255.

Draaisma, R. (2017). Language signs and calming signals of horses: recognition and application. CRC Press.

Grandin, T., & Johnson, C. (2009). Making Animals Happy: How to Create the Best Life for Pets and Other Animals. Bloomsbury.

Hayes, S. C., & Pierson, H. (2005). Acceptance and commitment therapy (pp. 1-4). Springer US.

Kain, K. L., & Terrell, S. J. (2018). Nurturing resilience: Helping clients move forward from developmental trauma--An integrative somatic approach. North Atlantic Books.

Paton, P. (2013). Temple Grandin and the Neuroscience of Empathy. JAC, 352-363.

Rees, L. (2017). Horses in company. The Crowood Press.

Gestalt therapy and equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) share several key principles that make them a natural fit:

Focus on the Present Moment: Both therapies emphasize the importance of being present in the moment and focusing on immediate experiences. This allows for a deeper exploration of emotions and sensations.

Body Awareness: Gestalt therapy and EAP both emphasize the importance of body awareness and the connection between the mind and body. Horses can provide a powerful mirror for a client's physical and emotional state.

Experiential Learning: Both therapies prioritize experiential learning, encouraging clients to explore their emotions and experiences through direct interaction with the environment.

Relationship Focus: In both therapies, the relationship between the client and the therapist (or in EAP, the client and the horse) is central to the therapeutic process.

Holistic Approach: Both Gestalt therapy and EAP take a holistic approach, considering the client's physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.

Bibliography

Kirby, M. (2010). Gestalt equine psychotherapy. Gestalt Journal of Australia and New Zealand, 6(2), 60-68.

Trotter, K. S. (2012). Equine assisted interventions in mental health. In Harnessing the power of equine assisted counseling (pp. 1-15). Routledge.

Greve, M. (2021). Horses and Gestalt Coaching: A Promising Combination For Life Skills Learning. Sabiedrība. Integrācija. Izglītība= Society. Integration. Education.

SIBAM, a model from Somatic Experiencing (SE), is used to guide therapeutic processes by focusing on five key elements of human experience: Sensation, Image, Behavior, Affect, and Meaning. When applied to Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP), it serves as a framework for helping clients process emotions and trauma through their interactions with horses. Here's how SIBAM translates into EAP: 

1. Sensation: 

Horses are highly attuned to subtle bodily sensations, which makes them ideal partners in somatic therapy. Clients can become more aware of their own physical sensations by noticing how their bodies react to the presence, movements, or touch of the horse. For example, during an EAP session, a therapist might ask the client to observe what they feel in their body while grooming the horse or standing near it, helping them connect to underlying emotions or stress held in the body. 

2. Image: 

Interactions with horses often evoke vivid imagery, whether in the form of memories, metaphors, or creative associations. A client may picture a horse as a representation of strength or safety, or a particular moment with the horse may trigger past memories. These images can then be explored to understand deeper psychological processes or unresolved trauma. 

3. Behaviour: 

In EAP, horses reflect the behaviour of the client, offering immediate feedback. A client's posture, movement, or tension can influence how the horse behaves. For instance, a nervous or tense client might observe the horse becoming more distant or wary, mirroring the client's internal state. This feedback helps clients become aware of their non-verbal behaviours and how they impact others and their environment. 

4. Affect: 

Horses can evoke strong emotional responses. In an EAP session, a client might experience joy, fear, sadness, or calmness while interacting with the horse. By observing and naming these emotions, the therapist helps the client become more attuned to their emotional state. This awareness, in turn, helps in processing and regulating affect, a key part of trauma resolution in SE. 

5. Meaning: 

The interaction with horses in EAP can help clients derive meaning from their experiences. Through reflection, clients can make sense of their sensations, behaviours, emotions, and images, often leading to new insights about themselves or their trauma. For example, a client might realise that their experience of fear around the horse mirrors a pattern of fear in personal relationships, helping them make deeper connections and heal. 

In Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy, SIBAM helps therapists guide clients through the complex process of connecting body and mind. The presence of a horse not only amplifies somatic awareness but also accelerates the therapeutic process by providing immediate, embodied experiences of safety, connection, and emotional regulation.

Bibliography

Levine, P. A. (2010). In an unspoken voice: How the body releases trauma and restores goodness. North Atlantic Books. 

Levine, P. A. (1997). Waking the tiger: Healing trauma. North Atlantic Books. 

Levine, P. A., & Frederick, A. (1997). Trauma and memory: Brain and body in a search for the living past. North Atlantic Books. 

Kohanov, L. (2015). The power of the herd: A non predatory approach to social intelligence, leadership, and innovation. New World Library. 

Karol, J. (2007). Applying a Trauma Lens to Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. Journal of Creativity in Mental Health, 2(2), 17-28. 

Selby, A., & Smith-Osborne, A. (2013). A systematic review of effectiveness of complementary and adjunct therapies and interventions involving equines. Health Psychology, 32(4), 418–432. 

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is considered trauma-informed and attachment-aware due to its emphasis on safety, the relational aspects of healing, and its adaptability to the needs of individuals who have experienced trauma or attachment disruptions. Here's what makes EAP particularly effective in these areas: 

1. Trauma-Informed Principles

Safety and Trust:

EAP creates a physically and emotionally safe environment where participants can explore their experiences without fear of judgement or re-traumatization. The non-verbal, non-threatening presence of horses helps establish a sense of safety, which is crucial for trauma survivors who may have difficulty trusting others. 

Empowerment and Choice:
Participants in EAP are encouraged to make choices about how they interact with the horse, which fosters a sense of control and empowerment. This is vital for trauma survivors, who often feel a loss of control due to their experiences. The ability to set boundaries and make decisions in therapy can help restore a sense of agency. 

Pacing and Attunement:

EAP is highly adaptable to the participant’s pace, allowing them to progress through therapy at a rate that feels safe and manageable. The therapist and horse both attune to the participant's emotional state, adjusting the intensity of the experience as needed. This attentiveness helps prevent overwhelming the participant and ensures that the therapeutic process respects their needs and limits. 

Non-Verbal Processing:

Trauma often impacts areas of the brain involved in verbal communication, making traditional talk therapy challenging for some individuals. EAP allows participants to engage in non-verbal, experiential forms of processing, which can be less intimidating and more accessible for those with trauma histories. 

Focus on Somatic Experience:

Trauma is stored not just in the mind but also in the body. EAP integrates somatic awareness, helping participants connect with their bodily sensations and learn to regulate their physiological responses to stress. This somatic focus is aligned with trauma-informed approaches that emphasise healing through the body as well as the mind. 

2. Attachment-Aware Practices

Relational Dynamics:

EAP inherently involves the formation of a relationship between the participant and the horse, which can mirror human attachment relationships. The horse's responses to the participant provide immediate feedback on relational dynamics, allowing individuals to explore patterns of attachment, trust, and connection in a safe, non-judgmental context. 

Co-Regulation:

Horses are highly attuned to the emotions and body language of humans, often serving as co-regulators in the therapeutic process. This means that as participants interact with the horse, they can experience a sense of calm and connection, which is crucial for individuals with insecure or disrupted attachment styles. The process of co-regulation with the horse can help participants develop healthier attachment patterns. 

Repairing Attachment Wounds:

Many participants in EAP have experienced disruptions in attachment, leading to difficulties in trust, intimacy, and emotional regulation. The relationship with the horse can serve as a corrective emotional experience, where participants learn to build trust, set boundaries, and engage in healthy relational patterns. This experience can help repair attachment wounds and foster more secure attachment behaviours. 

Reflective Functioning:

EAP encourages participants to reflect on their own emotional states and those of the horse, enhancing their capacity for reflective functioning. This involves understanding the mental states that underlie behaviours, which is key in developing secure attachment. By understanding how their feelings and actions affect the horse, participants gain insight into their own relational patterns and how they might transfer these to human relationships. 

Consistent, Predictable Interactions:

Horses, like secure caregivers, provide consistent, predictable responses to participants’ actions. This reliability helps create a secure base from which participants can explore and experiment with new ways of relating. Over time, these consistent, positive interactions with the horse can help participants internalise a sense of safety and stability, which is foundational for secure attachment. 

3. Holistic Integration of Trauma and Attachment Theories

Understanding Trauma and Attachment:

EAP integrates knowledge from trauma theory (e.g., the impacts of trauma on the brain and body) and attachment theory (e.g., the importance of secure relationships for emotional development). This integration informs the therapeutic approach, ensuring that the therapy addresses both the relational and physiological aspects of trauma and attachment. 

Personalised Approach:

EAP is inherently flexible, allowing the therapeutic process to be tailored to the specific attachment styles and trauma histories of participants. Whether the participant needs to work on establishing trust, learning to self-regulate, or healing from relational trauma, EAP provides a framework that can adapt to these needs. 

In summary, EAP is trauma-informed and attachment-aware because it emphasises safety, empowerment, and relational healing, while also integrating the somatic and non-verbal aspects of trauma recovery. The therapeutic relationship with the horse provides a unique, supportive context in which participants can explore and heal from the effects of trauma and attachment disruptions.

Bibliography

Kain, K. L., & Terrell, S. J. (2018). Nurturing resilience: Helping clients move forward from developmental trauma--An integrative somatic approach. North Atlantic Books.

Draaisma, R. (2017). Language signs and calming signals of horses: recognition and application. CRC Press.

Rees, L. (2017). Horses in company. The Crowood Press.
Paton, P. (2013). Temple Grandin and the Neuroscience of Empathy. JAC, 352-363.

Grandin, T., & Johnson, C. (2009). Making Animals Happy: How to Create the Best Life for Pets and Other Animals. Bloomsbury.