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Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP)

Healing Through Connection with Horses

Empowering Transformation Through Meaningful Connections 

Beginning in 2025, Sisu Psychotherapy and Wellness is proud to offer Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) as a transformative therapeutic approach! This wholesome form of therapy combines traditional psychotherapy with the unique, non-verbal communication and healing potential that comes from working with horses.

​SPW follows the Human-Equine Alliances for Learning (HEAL) model which integrates equine-assisted therapy with principles of neuroscience, psychology, and experiential learning. The model is particularly focused on helping individuals work through trauma, emotional dysregulation, and relational challenges by leveraging the unique qualities of horses as therapeutic partners.
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What is Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy?

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy is an experiential therapeutic approach where clients work with horses and a licensed mental health professional to explore and address emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges. The therapy focuses on building trust, enhancing emotional regulation, and improving interpersonal skills through the powerful bond formed between the client and the horse. It is a dynamic and hands-on process that can complement traditional talk therapy, providing a holistic approach to healing.

Benefits of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy is particularly beneficial for those dealing with:
  • Anxiety and Stress: Horses’ calming presence helps clients ground themselves, reducing anxiety and promoting emotional regulation.
  • Trauma and PTSD: The non-judgmental nature of horses offers a safe environment to process past trauma and build emotional resilience.
  • Low Self-Esteem and Confidence: Building a trusting relationship with a horse can enhance self-esteem and help clients develop greater confidence in their own abilities.
  • Social Skills and Communication: Interacting with horses can improve communication, non-verbal cues, and problem-solving skills.
  • Behavioral Issues: The structured environment helps clients learn accountability, follow directions, and develop leadership skills.

Let's Get Started

If you're interested in learning more, we invite you to reach out to Sisu Psychotherapy and Wellness today to find out about availability and if EAP may be a good fit for you. 
Get In touch

How Does It Work?​

In Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy, the therapist guides the client in ground-based (no riding) activities and interactions with horses that promote self-awareness, confidence, and emotional growth. These activities may include leading the horse through various tasks, observing and interpreting the horse’s behavior, and practicing non-verbal communication and boundary-setting. Horses are highly sensitive animals, and their responses provide immediate feedback, allowing clients to gain insight into their own emotions, behaviors, and patterns.

Who Can Benefit

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy is effective for individuals of all ages and backgrounds, including:
  • Adolescents struggling with emotional regulation, behavioral issues, or trauma.
  • Adults dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or life transitions.
  • People seeking personal growth, greater self-awareness, and emotional healing.

Why Choose Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy offers a unique and experiential alternative to traditional therapy, combining the healing power of animals with evidence-based psychological practices. The natural environment and the interaction with horses provide a distinct opportunity for clients to experience growth and healing in a non-threatening, engaging way. It is especially helpful for those who may find it difficult to open up in conventional talk therapy, as the non-verbal nature of the work allows for emotional expression without pressure.

Whether you are seeking to build confidence, process trauma, or improve your relationships, Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy provides a powerful tool for personal transformation.
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Fees & Insurance

I am in-network with most plans for Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, United HealthCare,
Oxford, Oscar, Cigna and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts.
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I am not in-network with any Medicare or Medicaid insurance plans.
Out-of-Network fee: $150 per 50-55 minute individual session.
I can provide you with a super bill for out-of-network reimbursement. 
Please reach out to us if you have any questions regarding your insurance. 

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Lacy-Jo Gieger, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
908 Fairview Lake Lane
Blairstown NJ 07825973-862-8046
​[email protected]
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  • Home
  • About Me
  • Services & Fees
  • Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP)
  • Contact