Equine-assisted Learning
What is ‘Equine-Assisted Learning’ (EAL)?
Equine-Assisted Learning is a unique method of facilitating which uses safe experiences with horses as the main teaching tool to build socio-emotional skills. This style of experiential learning is used for purposes of personal development, social- emotional and relationship skills building, enhancing quality of life, and professional development skills.
We recommend enrolling in our popular 10-week Horse Wisdom Program- which covers valuable therapeutic goals such as: regulation; emotional literacy; healthy boundaries; supporting big emotions; and more. EAL sessions include mounted activities (for riders under 70kg).
This is a wonderful program for people of all ages, and works especially well with teens, and children with Autism/ADHD.
Sessions can be billed to NDIS funding under Core Supports.
Evidence-based
Deeply grounded in evidence-based practises, these popular sessions introduce you to the beautiful world of horses through a combination of mindfulness, nature-connection, horsemanship, and animal connection activities.
Each lesson is tailored around increasing emotional and physical awareness. The sessions are highly structured while allowing for flexibility based on your needs. Sessions combine high-energy/extroverted activities with low-energy/introverted activities, allowing you to tangibly practise emotional regulation.
A typical session
What to expect…
1. Emotional and physical check-in
2. Mindfulness activities to engage the senses
3. Review session plan and safety agreements
4. Horse Connection experience
5. Reflection
6. Closing circle: integration
Why are sessions
‘mindfulness-based’?
Mindfulness-based activities are integrated into the sessions to provide opportunities to practise self-regulation, increase awareness, and develop self-compassion. Exercises are drawn from evidence-based mindfulness programs and are tailored to suit each client’s trauma history.
Time spent connecting with the natural world has enormous benefits for our physical and mental health, as research is quickly demonstrating. Nature connection increases our ability to be present in a non-judgemental and non-reactive way.
Meet your practitioners:
Maxime Willems
Available now: Thursdays; Fridays; Saturdays
Qualifications: Equine-Assisted Learning facilitator (Equine Psychotherapy Insititute); Masters degree in Education; Masters degree in Sociology; Certificate IV (800hr) in Yoga Teaching; Diploma of Counselling (expected March 2024); specialisation in Children and Teen’s yoga, and Trauma-informed Yoga; 20+ years of equine experience
Before transitioning into equine-assisted learning, Maxime worked as an NDIS Behaviour Support Practitioner in the Northern Rivers NSW. Within this role, she noticed the powerful addition of Equine-assisted therapies to Behaviour Support Services, Occupational Therapy and room-based therapies. As Maxime is deeply passionate about providing a safe space for people to heal, grow and explore what is important to them. Maxime fosters a gentle, client-focused approach which helps people to feel comfortable and supported.
Maxime works with an array of clients and presenting concerns, from Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities to Social, Emotional, Behavioural, Relational and Parenting-related concerns.
To book a session with Maxime, please submit your info here, and our admin team will be in touch.
Mandy Hunt
Available now: Wednesdays & Saturdays (afternoons only)
Qualifications: Equine-assisted Learning Facilitator (Equine Psychotherapy Institute); Bachelor of Science in Psychology; Certified Art for Youth Wellness; 6+ years experience in Psychology admin support; 250 hour Yoga Teacher training
Mandy is a passionate and gentle facilitator with a keen interest in horse-human connection. She works with children and adults with a variety of mental health concerns or disability needs. Mandy has a client-centred approach with a focus on supporting your unique strengths which you bring to the world. Her background in Psychology and horsemanship give her a wonderful foundation to support a diverse range of presentations. Mandy has a sense of humour and playfulness which resonates with people of all ages.
To book a session with Mandy, please submit your info here, and our admin team will be in touch.
Our number one priority is for you to feel safe and cared for.
Sessions are $150 per 50-min
Our session cost includes non-face-to-face time such as:
Researching your unique psychological or physical needs
Preparing and designing therapeutic games, psychoeducation, art therapy projects
Constantly updating our horses' training and management
Consulting on your goals during individual or group supervision
Writing case notes
Communicating with stakeholders about your progress
Discussing your goals with our team
Setting up and packing down activities designed just for you
... and more!
