Q: Do we ride the horses?
No. The goal during a session is for the client to interact with the horses to develop new sets of skills and to learn new behaviors.
Horses are excellent at reading our body language, and will respond to it honestly, which makes them powerful messengers. They are able to read and mirror body language. Horses are instinctively attuned to internal states for survival, which allows them to mirror and respond to behavior, inner conflicts as well as unspoken emotional states such as fear, anger, sadness and joy. This heightened sense of awareness makes the horse a perfect guide through the difficult process of self discovery, healing and growth.
Q: Who can benefit from Acres for Life?
Equine-assisted work has proven successful with individuals and groups from all walks of life: children, adolescents, families, couples, the elderly, and professional teams. Programs are specifically tailored for everything from addiction recovery to corporate team building, each with unique exercises that focus on the needs of the individual or the group.
Q: I have never been around horses, is that a problem?
No. When you contact Acres for Life, we can discuss anything you need to know about safety around horses and any other issues you may have.
Q: What should I wear for a session?
Dress comfortably. We work year-round in all types of weather, so dress for all types of Minnesota weather. While there is some protection from the cold, you will still be outside, so dress warmly in the winter months. It may be best to dress in layers to prepare for any type of weather since a session may start out at one temperature and change as the session progresses. Jeans are always appropriate. Closed toe shoes are best for footwear.
Q: What is the difference between Equine Assisted Learning and Equine Assisted Therapy?
Equine Assisted Learning is a personal growth process that helps participants develop improved communication skills, team building skills, healthier relationships, improved self confidence and self esteem, improved personal work ethics, greater recognition of responsibility, appropriate assertiveness and self discovery.
Equine Assisted Therapy is a collaborative effort between a licensed therapist and a horse professional. It is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, abuse issues, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs.
Q: I am afraid of horses. Can I still benefit from this type of therapy?
Absolutely! Working within our supportive environment, it is your fear that may prove especially effective in breaking through old patterns and revealing important insights. No prior knowledge of horses and/or horsemanship is necessary.
Q: What if I'm allergic to horses?
Contact Lynn Moore or Heather Jeffrey to discuss issues surrounding allergies. In many cases we can work around this so that you have a complete and exciting experience with minimal impact on you.
The therapists and equine specialists at Acres for Life are highly trained, both within their respective professions and by EAGALA, the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association. Continuing education and training, and third-party supervision are an ongoing part of our educational process.
Programs are individually designed for specific needs. Please contact us for specific pricing details.
