EQUINE ASSISTED PSYCHOTHERAPY
The alternative to talking therapy for young people aged 12+
“It just shows that with all the right support, how much things can help a child! ”
Parent
THE FACTS
WHAT IS EAP?
A clinically informed, alternative therapy that takes place alongside horses, on the ground (no riding involved). The model uses the horse as a mirror and metaphor to support emotional development in young people
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Involves guided activities such as:
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Grooming
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Leading
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Observing
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Reflective exercises in the field
WHY IT WORKS.
Horses respond to energy, not words. This offers real-time, non-verbal feedback with the chance to change a response in real time with no judgment, fear, or shame.
Supports young people in:
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Recognising internal states
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Developing insight
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Exploring patterns of behaviour safely
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Especially effective for those who struggle to engage in traditional therapy settings
WHO IS IT FOR?
​Young people with EHCPs or early intervention support/ SEN needs.
Suitable for those experiencing:
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Anxiety or emotional distress
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Grief/loss
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School-based difficulties
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Attachment or trust challenges
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Emotional dysregulation
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Low confidence
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Disengagement in 'normal' talk therapies
THE APPROACH.
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Trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming
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Brings together psychotherapeutic techniques, psychoeducation, and equus coaching models.
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Aligned with EHCP outcomes.
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Builds confidence, connection, and emotional understanding through relationships, not performance.
ACCEPTED FUNDED STREAMS
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✔ EHCP
✔ LAC
✔ School
✔ Social care
✔ Private direct payments
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Sessions are typically offered in blocks of 6 or 12, with progress reviewed at regular intervals to ensure the support remains aligned with the young person’s needs. For more complex or ongoing therapeutic work, longer-term provisions can be arranged as part of a tailored care plan.​
MAKING A REFERRAL STARTS HERE
Please check out our Parental Responsibility guidelines before making a referral.
Equine Assisted Therapy Location
Cheshire Riding School​
Cogshall Lane
Comberbach
CW9 6BS
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*By appointment only
