Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

a collaborative space to heal with horses

What is Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP)?

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is a mental health service, conducted under the supervision of a licensed mental health professional, that involves horses as integral partners in the treatment process. Grounded in the principles of traditional psychotherapy, EAP sessions are a collaborative process between a mental health professional, an equine specialist, an equine partner, and the participant. The calming presence of horses, coupled with their keen ability to sense and respond to human emotion and intention, provides an ideal environment for self-discovery, healing, and personal growth.

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy can be for you if:

  • Traditional therapy hasn't worked and you want to try something new

  • You want to become more self-aware and more at peace

  • You are struggling with depression and/or anxiety

  • You want to build coping skills

  • You want to build self-esteem, have fun, and get outdoors

  • You want to improve your self-care

  • You are already in therapy and want to try EAP as additional treatment

Take the Step Towards Healing

In EAP, horses are co-facilitators in the therapeutic process. The integration of equine partners into mental health services becoming more widely recognized for its effectiveness in addressing various concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and interpersonal difficulties. EAP offers a holistic and experiential approach to therapy, promoting emotional well-being and fostering positive life changes.

Fees and Insurance

  • Equine assisted psychotherapy sessions are held at a farm sanctuary with rescue horses in Nokesville, VA. The sessions are 45-60 minutes long and are $150 per session. This fee covers the therapist, and the equine specialist, and a portion of the fee goes towards maintaining the recuse and taking care of the horses.

  • We are an out-of-network provider. If you call your insurance company ask the following question: What are my out-of-network benefits for CPT code 90837? They should then explain to you the portion they will cover. With out-of-network providers you pay at the time of service and then if requested you will be provided with a document to submit to your insurance company and they will issue payment to you for the portion they cover.

questions you may have

  • It is completely up to you! As long as you feel it is beneficial you are welcome to schedule. Some clients come to weekly, biweekly or monthly sessions or sometimes they have a couple of sessions and feel like they achieved the experience they were looking for.

  • You can learn more about the equine sanctuary we have partnered with by visiting their website at Equine Connection Center

  • Yes, to the extent that you are comfortable and safe.

  • Equine-assisted psychotherapy is a mental health service that is on the ground only. There is no riding involved.

If you have a question that I haven’t answered yet, please reach out!