Recently lost a loved one? Want some help?

Grief and loss can be a painful and difficult part of life. They are normal and fundamental parts of life that affect everyone differently. They can be expressed very differently in children vs. adults. Socio-cultural beliefs can also have an impact on how grief and loss are expressed.

Some examples of loss are:

• Death (including a loved one, a family pet, miscarriage)
• Marital separation or divorce
• Diminished functioning of family members (i.e. chronic illness, mental illness, or chronic disability)
• Loss of job or home
• Moving
• “Positive” events such as marriage, birth of child, or retirement
  

Grief & Loss-Related Symptoms

Elizabeth Kubler-Ross stated the grief process has five stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. A person may not go through these stages in a sequential order. Symptoms can be characteristic of Depression and are considered “normal” unless they last longer than two months. If symptoms continue a person may need professional help. Some common symptoms are:

• Change in appetite &/or sleep pattern
• Loss of motivation
• Sadness
• Tearfulness
• Pain
• Shock
• Anger
  

How is EAP especially relevant for these concerns?

EAP is an experiential approach. This means that participants learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses, and then processing (or discussing) feelings, behaviors, and patterns. The therapy horses used in the session have the ability to mirror exactly what the human body language is saying in that moment. Horses are honest, which makes them especially powerful messengers. EAP can help address expressing feelings, increasing coping skills, rebuilding self-esteem and decreasing grief symptoms.
 

What kind of EAP is offered at Horse Sense?

We offer Equine Assisted Psychotherapy utilizing the EAGALA model. EAGALA (the Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Learning Association) is an international organization that provides training and certification in this field, as well as establishes standards of practice, ethics, and safety. Learn more about it at EAGALA.org.

What do I do next?

Call 828-683-7304 to determine if Equine Assisted Psychotherapy is right for you!