Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) is one of our most-asked-about programs. Here's what it is, and just as important, what it isn't.
What is Equine Assisted Learning?
EAL is an experiential learning approach. Participants build life skills for educational, professional and personal goals by working with horses. Most of the work is unmounted: participants take part in group activities and discussions on the ground with the horses.
Why horses?
Horses are sensitive herd animals with their own social rules and group dynamics. Working with them gives people a practical way to think about connection, communication, boundaries and being present.
Who leads the sessions?
Every session is facilitated by a licensed educational professional and an equine specialist.
Is EAL a form of therapy?
No. We do not offer equine-assisted psychotherapy, which must be provided by a mental health professional under an individual treatment plan. We are also not a therapeutic (adaptive) riding program or a hippotherapy program, which is run with a physical, occupational or speech therapist.
Will participants ride?
Mounted work may begin after about 12–13 weeks in the program, but EAL is not a riding lesson program. Once mounted work begins, not every session will include it. If riding is the main goal, our riding lessons are the better fit.
How do I learn more?
Read more on our EAL page, or contact us to talk about whether EAL is right for you or your group.
