Services provided and facilitated by the ACU Counseling Center in partnership with the ACU Agricultural & Environmental Sciences Department
Please sign up below to be included in future offerings, or contact
steve.eller@acu.edu with any questions.
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WHAT IS EQUINE ASSISTED COUNSELING & LEARNING:
Equine assisted counseling & learning is a unique approach, using the Eagala model, for individuals who would like to identify and overcome hurdles of life, as well as experience a new method of self-growth. Explore how this unique interaction with horses can provide insight and clarity to life’s challenges. - Everything is 100% on the ground, there is no horse riding.
This non-traditional approach takes place in the arena with horses, a mental health professional, and an equine specialist. It is a hands on approach to therapy, facilitated by a treatment team, that involves setting up activities involving horses which will require the participant (or group) to apply certain skills to accomplish and/or overcome obstacles [or even just to participate and engage].
BENEFITS:Breaks through defense barriers
Requires thinking outside the box
Builds confidence and self-esteem while learning responsibility
Encourages learning about non-verbal communication
Brings awareness of personality differences
Promotes accountability
Provides a reduction in stress (yes, even by being around horses)
Provides insight into creating and maintaining healthy relationships
Demonstrates the influence our environment has on our behaviors as well as how our behaviors influence environment
Alters locus of control
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We have limited space for these groups. If there is a high interest, we will reach out to see about scheduling additional groups.
NOTE: ACU equine assisted services are available to ACU classes, groups, departments, teams, families, couples, or individuals.
LOCATION:
Sessions will occur at the ACU Farm (7 miles north of I-20).
Please be aware of the time needed for travel to arrive promptly. You will receive a map and directions after registration.
We will also be mindful of the weather, as these activities take place outdoors.
You are also responsible for transportation to/from the farm.
CONFIDENTIALITY & PRIVACY:
If you are attending a group session please respect the confidentiality of all participants in the same manner you would hope they would respect your privacy.
Steve Eller, LPC-S is on staff with the ACU Counseling Center, and is a trained and certified Eagala provider of equine assisted counseling and learning. This model incorporates a team approach, including a mental health professional, an equine specialist, currently served by Riley Morrow (ACU Farm Manager) and one or more of our horse friends.
Sessions are 100% on the ground, with no riding involved during this activity.
We will be utilizing the Eagala model (
eagala.org) to offer a unique learning space for participants to encounter and apply the symbols and metaphors that arise while interacting with horses.
