Read about Youth & Adolescent Issues
Read about Adjudicated & Court Involved Youth Issues

Youth & Adolescence

At Horse Sense of the Carolinas, we frequently work with children and teenagers who are struggling, and can assist youth and their families in dealing with a variety of childhood behavioral problems.

Issues of concern

• Impulsivity
• Poor decision making
• Difficulty handling frustration
• Argumentative behavior
• Difficulty accepting responsibility
  
  
  

Being at Horse Sense “taught [our daughter] about consequences, and being more open and honest." --C.M.

How is EAP especially appropriate for youth?

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy is especially suited for youth, in that it's not an office-based intervention. EAP is engaging, interesting and, in the words of one of our past clients, "It doesn't feel like therapy!" EAP also does not require youth to be verbal about their thoughts & feelings; instead it allows them the opportunity to try out new behaviors and get feedback from an unbiased source: the horse. 

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.

"During these sessions [our son] has had an opportunity to develop his confidence and his ability to stay calm under challenging conditions. He now knows he can draw on these experiences again and again."  --L.L.

What do I do next?

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

Adjudicated & Court Involved Youth

When behavioral problems experienced by youth are serious enough that a child becomes involved in the legal system, help is needed. Horse Sense of the Carolinas works closely with local Departments of Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention (DJJDP) to provide counseling services for youth and their families.

If your child or teenager is involved with the legal system, or at risk for becoming involved, you can contact us to inquire about the programs we offer in partnership with DJJDP.

Issues of Concern

Is your child exhibiting

• Problems with authority
  
• Anger management & Aggressive behavior
• Destruction of property
• Difficulty following rules/law
  
  

"It’s not a playground or a park. It’s not horse sightseeing, and it’s not some phony program that you don’t get anything out of. If you take it seriously, they will take you seriously.”  --T, age 15

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.

“The changes we witnessed in young men who
participated are powerful testament to the
program’s worth. Participants learned different
ways of coping with challenges and ineffective
patterns of behavior, resisting negative activity
and creating success for themselves. The positive
influence rippled through the facility for months.”
--June Fowler, Facility Director,
Swannanoa Valley Youth Development Center

What do I do next?

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