An Introduction to EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pkfln-ZtWeY#action=share

 

Equine Assisted EMDR (EA-EMDR) is a specialized therapeutic modality that combines the effectiveness of EMDR  (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with the power of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. In EA-EMDR, the horse can be integrated into each of the eight phases of the EMDR protocol and serves as a co-facilitator to the healing process. The integrity of both treatment modalities is honored in this approach which, when combined, creates unique opportunities to heal from trauma.

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The presence of the horse during an EMDR session creates a therapeutic space unlike any other.  It is often difficult for clients who have been wounded in relationship to become vulnerable with their pain, even in the presence of a therapist.  In a relationship with a horse, things like trust and safety that are essential to a healing environment develop quickly and organically.  Clients experience a sense of safety while navigating difficult past events that a therapist alone could not provide. EA-EMDR also creates opportunities for somatic or whole-body healing as the client has the opportunity to integrate various activities with the horse into their EMDR session. For example, as one client acknowledged that she felt stuck and unable to move, her horse took off bucking and running across the arena. The client was asked what she wanted to do with that feeling, she spontaneously chose to run across the arena as well, this enabled her to move her feet and become unstuck. This was a powerful moment for her in the healing process.

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If you would like to learn more about EA-EMDR or to book a session, please contact the therapists.