Equine-Assisted Counselling
Equine-assisted counselling (aka horse-assisted therapy) refers to a counsellor offering therapy services to a human client utilizing the assistance of horses. Horses provide a caring, safe environment for humans to heal, explore, and work on moving forward in their lives.
At Collins Wellness, we use a multi-dimensional approach to counselling. For those who find non-traditional settings helpful, we integrate the benefits of equine-assisted counselling and nature-based counselling environments. Equine-assisted counselling and nature-based counselling allow clients to experience in-the-moment feedback for self-awareness, relational dynamics, and somatic experiences. They also experience benefits directly resulting from their increased exposure to the elements – sunshine, fresh air and exercise to name a few.
We believe individuals inherently know what will work in their life – sometimes they just need help learning how to listen to their own cues. Our goal is to work with each client to develop a treatment plan specific to their values and beliefs.
Within our equine-assisted counselling and throughout the practice, we follow three guiding principles:
- Ensuring safety for humans and horses alike
- To work within the values and principles of clients
- Building a stronger community with resourceful and resilient individuals
Rooted in relational counselling, equine-assisted counselling allows people to explore their relationships with others as well as their relation to self. Horses are by nature authentic and honest, basing their interactions on respect, boundaries, and trust, all elements required to build healthy relationships among humans as well.
“Including horses in the counselling sessions provides individuals with a unique experience that mirrors real-life.”
This mirroring allows people to increase self-awareness through non-judgmental, intuitive equine interactions and thereby creates a safe environment to explore relationships in their life and teaches them how to build and maintain healthy relationships.
At Collins Wellness, we believe that increasing self-awareness is the first step to becoming healthier, happier humans. Our multi-disciplinary approach ensures that we find the right combination of therapies for each individual. Whether strictly equine-assisted, or in combination with in-office talk therapy and nature-based therapy, our goal is to provide treatment specific to each client’s needs.
FAQs
What is equine-assisted therapy?
Equine-assisted counselling (aka horse-assisted therapy) refers to a counsellor offering therapy services to a human client utilizing the assistance of horses.
Who can access equine-assisted counselling?
From children and youth to adults and families, everyone is welcome at Collins Wellness. Together, we will determine the best treatment plan for the individual. Often, using a multi-dimensional approach works best, and for many people within our practice, that includes working with horses.
Where do you conduct equine-assisted therapy?
Equine-assisted therapy sessions take place at the Copper Hills Equestrian Center by appointment only.
How much does it cost?
Equine Assisted Counselling: $150 Per Session + GST = $157.50/hour. Sessions will often be covered through extended benefits. Check with your insurance provider for details.
Note: There are currently AgSafe mental health supports available to ranchers and/or farmers as well as their employees who have been adversely affected by the recent floods and fires in BC.
How do I find out more?
If you’re thinking about taking the first step to a better self, reach out today to book an appointment or get more information about our services.
