Valor Horses for Heroes Grantsboro, Jacksonville, & Morganton NC + Telehealth
fax: 1.252.458.2265
valorhorsesforheroes@gmail.com
Healing with Horses
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy
At Valor Horses for Heroes, Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) offers a unique, experiential approach to mental health that combines evidence-based therapeutic interventions with purposeful interactions alongside horses. Sessions are facilitated by a licensed mental health professional and an EAGALA Certified Equine Specialist, allowing clients to explore thoughts, emotions, relationships, and behavioral patterns through ground-based activities with horses—no riding is involved. Horses naturally respond to human emotions and nonverbal communication, providing immediate, honest feedback that can foster self-awareness, emotional regulation, confidence, healthy boundaries, and improved communication. EAP can be an effective treatment for individuals experiencing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationship challenges, and other emotional concerns, while creating a safe, supportive environment where meaningful insight and lasting change can occur.
Is it right for me?
Do I need horse experience?
No. No previous experience with horses is necessary. Sessions are designed for beginners and experienced horse people alike.
Do I ride the horses?
No. Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy at Valor is entirely ground-based. All activities take place on the ground alongside the horses.
How can horses help with therapy?
Horses naturally respond to human emotions, body language, and communication. Their honest, nonjudgmental feedback can help increase self-awareness, emotional regulation, confidence, and healthy relationship skills.
What concerns can EAP help with?
EAP may benefit individuals experiencing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, life transitions, and emotional regulation difficulties.
Is EAP evidence-based?
Research continues to support equine-assisted interventions as an effective complement to traditional psychotherapy, particularly for trauma, anxiety, emotional regulation, and interpersonal functioning. At Valor, EAP is integrated with evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS)-informed therapy, and trauma-informed care.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for being outdoors and closed-toe shoes. Dress for the weather, as sessions take place outside whenever possible.
What if I'm nervous around horses?
That's completely okay! Many clients begin therapy feeling unsure around horses. We move at your pace, and there is never any pressure to touch or interact with a horse before you feel ready.
Can children participate?
Yes. EAP is appropriate for children, adolescents, and adults- Even couples, families, or groups! Activities are individualized based on age, developmental level, and treatment goals.
How long are sessions?
Most individual sessions are approximately one hour, though the exact length may vary depending on your treatment plan.
Do I have to love horses to benefit?
Not at all. The therapeutic process focuses on your experiences, emotions, and relationships. The horses simply provide opportunities for insight, reflection, and growth. Many clients are surprised by how meaningful the experience becomes, regardless of their prior interest in horses.