The use of horses helping people is a new and successful form of psychotherapy sweeping the country. Already there are over 2000 licensed equine-assisted psychotherapists in the United States. EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, families, and groups. EAP addresses a variety of mental-health and human-development needs, including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, abuse issues, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and communications.

EAP is not about riding horses or horsemanship skills. In fact, 90 percent of all work is done on the ground. The focus of EAP involves setting up activities involving the horses which will require the client or group to apply certain skills. Nonverbal communication, assertiveness, creative thinking and problem-solving, leadership, taking responsibility, teamwork and relationships, confidence and attitude are several examples of the skills taught and strengthened by EAP exercises.

Clients learn about themselves and others by participating in fun activities with horses, then processing feelings, behaviors, and nonverbal body language afterwards with the therapist. Clients discover their own solutions to problems rather that being instructed on what to do.

Broader Horizons Counselors are certified as licensed therapists and as Equine-Assisted Psychotherapists. All work is done at a nearby farm, keeping safety first in mind.