Why should I sign up for EFP?

If you are seeking a unique and effective way to explore clinical goals around managing trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD or chronic pain and illness, EFP might be a great fit. Please note: in some instances, we may require clients to also have a primary mental health professional, with EFP serving a role as an adjunct therapy. Please contact us to learn more and inquire if EFP is a good match for what you are looking for!

How long is each regular EFP session?

Initial consultations/intakes may last up to 90 minutes; ongoing sessions will be approximately 60 minutes in length. Session length may be adjusted at the discretion of the clinician.

Who is my treatment team in EFP sessions?

In each EFP session, the treatment team consisted of a licensed clinician (mental health professional), a certified equine specialist (ES), and of course, the equines and animals a client partners with during the course of his/her/their treatment arc!

Is there an age range that EFP is appropriate for?

Ages 8 and up! For children younger than 8, nature-based talk therapy (eco-therapy) and play therapy models are more appropriate, especially when navigating trauma.

What types of activities will we do in EFP sessions?

Activities may include, but are not limited to: equine body language and non-verbal communication, herd dynamics, haltering and leading, working at liberty {round pen}, ground work exercises, horsemanship fundamentals, grooming, parts of the horse, feeding and nutrition, basic first aid and daily care. All activities are designed with a client’s personal clinical goals in mind.

Will we be riding horses?

EFP is very different than EAL or even riding lessons. You may do some mounted work with the horses if there is a therapeutic reason for doing so, only at the discretion of your treatment team. If you are looking for a therapeutic riding program for children, please click here.

How is EFP different from EAL?

The goals of EFP are clinically-driven, and sessions are personalized for a client’s individual treatment plan. Typically, sessions are private (unless they intentionally involve family members); whereas EAL sessions may be groups with non-clinical goals. A licensed clinical therapist is always present in EFP sessions. As defined by PATH Intl., equine-facilitated psychotherapy [EFP] is, “a form of experiential psychotherapy that includes equine(s). It may include, but is not limited to, a number of mutually beneficial equine activities such as handling, grooming, longeing, riding, driving, and vaulting. Equine-facilitated psychotherapy is a treatment approach within the classification of equine-assisted therapy that provides the client with opportunities to enhance self-awareness and re-pattern maladaptive behaviors, feelings and attitudes.”

Is prior experience with horses a requirement?

No prior horse experience is necessary. Most of our clients have never been around horses, and many admit to having a fear of horses. We will meet the needs of every individual who participates so they can feel safe and understood throughout the process at all times.

Does insurance cover EFP?

If a paneled provider is available, sessions can be billed to insurance, however most of our clinicians are private pay only. We can provide a letter/receipt for clients to seek reimbursement, but it is not guaranteed. In some instances, Equuvation offers scholarships to cover the services, but scholarships are not guaranteed and are based on a completed application.

How much does EFP cost?

Individual sessions are $165/hour. Initial intake sessions are billed at the rate of $165. We do not want finances to be a barrier for clients to receive treatment, so please contact us to discuss additional fee/finance options.

Does EFP take place year-round?

Yes, with exceptions for some holiday weeks, regular ongoing EFP client sessions are scheduled during the whole of the calendar year. For a printable version of our calendar, please click here. Weather and sick policies always apply.