The Eagala Model is so effective because it embraces the science that humans learn best by doing. The model prescribes a hands-on approach where clients are given the space to project and analyze their situations, make connections, and find their own solutions.

Since the solutions are personally experienced in conjunction with intellectual understanding, they tend to be deeper, more profound, and longer lasting.

The Eagala Model is a team approach that includes a licensed, credentialed Mental Health Professional, and a qualifed Equine Specialist, and horses working together with the client at all times.

When inside the arena, all the work is done on the ground with the horses front and center, deliberately unhindered and never ridden, and allowed to interact with the client as they wish.

This creates the space for the client, with the support of the professional facilitators, to reflect, project, and make deep connections.

“Therapists were surprised at the changes they could see in their clients, several of whom were actively regaining control over their lives.” – Wanda Kay Whittlesey-Jerome, Journal of Counseling and Professional Psychology

Intelligent Prey Animals
To evade predators, horses have evolved to be extremely sensitive to their environment. They instinctively analyze and react to our body language and other nonverbal cues providing us with valuable feedback and insights for other areas of our lives.

Large and Powerful
It’s hard to ignore a horse with their size and presence. We can’t just control a powerful horse. Approaching horses helps us reflect on how we approach our relationships, and how we can face other big or overwhelming things in our lives.

Herd Animals with Distinct Personalities
Horses are social animals with defined roles within a herd. They have distinct personalities, attitudes, and moods. They could be stubborn or they could be playful. In other words, horses are a lot like us.

Thank you to EAGALA.ORG for the use of this information.