the equine gestalt practice

Gestalt is the pure belief that we are all whole as we are and hold our own answers within.
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Gestalt therapy is founded on the principle that individuals are inherently whole and possess the internal resources necessary for self-understanding and healing. The approach emphasizes the importance of experiencing the present moment fully and integrating various aspects of oneself to achieve personal growth and well-being.
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In Gestalt therapy, the focus is on helping clients become aware of their current feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, and how these may be impacting their lives. The therapist supports clients in exploring and understanding their experiences, often through experiential techniques. The goal is to help clients recognize and embrace their own potential for change and self-discovery.
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The idea that each person holds their own answers reflects the belief that individuals have the inner wisdom and capacity to address their own challenges when they become fully aware of their experiences and feelings. The therapist's role is to facilitate this process of self-discovery rather than providing direct solutions or answers.
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Gestalt therapy helps the client revisit past experiences to release trapped emotional energy, enabling them to identify the source of their emotional triggers. This release fosters greater self-awareness, allowing the client to better understand and manage their emotional responses.

Equine Gestalt therapy opens individual awareness through experiential exploration with horses.

Equine Gestalt Therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses interactions with horses to help individuals gain insights and address emotional or psychological issues. The process typically involves opportunities for growth through client-driven experiences with horses, facilitated by a trained practitioner, to help clients explore their feelings, behaviors, and relationships in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.

Horses are highly sensitive and perceptive animals, and their reactions can provide valuable feedback to clients. A horse's response to a client's actions or emotions highlights issues the client may be facing. This creates a unique opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth.
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The horse in Equine Gestalt Therapy responds to the energy generated by the client's exploration of past trauma and emotional wounds. This interaction helps uncover emotional imbalances, with the horse's reactions offering insights into the client's emotional state, facilitating healing, and promoting self-awareness.
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The experiential nature of the therapy allows clients to connect deeply with their feelings. The presence of the horse makes the therapeutic process more engaging and impactful, fostering emotional resilience and a stronger sense of connection with oneself and others.
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Horse and riding experience are not necessary. During most of the sessions, the horse is at liberty in the arena with the practitioner and client.  On warmer days, sessions may be held in the outdoor pastures.

Grants may be available for people with financial need. Please contact us for further information.