952-715-0007
Confidential Consultation
Equine Psychotherapy
At Four Directions Behavioral Health, we offer a unique, experiential mode of therapy.
Equine-assisted psychotherapy is great for people who wish to move beyond traditional in-office therapy. Equine psychotherapy has proven to be an effective means of helping people overcome the challenges of depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorders, emotional and behavioral issues, and dual diagnosis.
Equine assisted therapy is particularly effective for people who associate traditional therapy with trauma or those (like young children) who may struggle to sit still and focus during a lengthy therapy session. It has also been a highly effective means of helping military veterans address post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What Is Equine Psychotherapy?
It’s really exactly as it sounds. It’s therapy that involves horses, as well as a licensed clinical therapist, and an equine specialist to manage the horses. At Four Directions, we practice according to the Eagala (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) method, which is the global standard for incorporating horses into therapy sessions.
Step 1
The first step is to get in contact with us and set up your initial intake appointment. The intake appointment will consist of a diagnostic assessment and discussion of your goals. Paperwork and other administrative needs will also be taken care of during that 50 minute session.
Step 2
Step two is your first equine session, which will also last 50 minutes. Your interaction with the horse will be based on what you are comfortable with. Some people prefer to be separated by a fence, some prefer an indoor stable setting, and some prefer being outdoors. Equine sessions are all “grounded”, meaning there is no riding, sitting in saddles, or using reins. Your feet will be on the ground at all times as you interact with the horse with the help of your therapist and equine specialist. It is not necessary to have any prior experience around horses.
The Goal Of Equine Psychotherapy
Equine therapy is solutions-based, focusing on addressing all aspects of your being: the physical, the mental, the emotional, and the social. We strive to help our clients embark on a journey of self-discovery, discovering the answers that lie within. As an experiential mode of therapy, the hands-on experience in a safe environment is an empowering part of the journey.
Unlock The Door To Yourself
The first step is to contact us and schedule your initial intake. We look forward to hearing from you.
Groups Offered
Equine Women’s Empowerment Group
Finding your way through your
own inner-strength
Thursdays: 9am CST
Equine Adult DBT
Learn skills to move closer to life goals
Cultivate an ability to work these skills into daily lives
Thursdays: 11am CST
Equine Parent Support Group
“Help, I have a teenager.”
Thursdays: 12:30pm-1:30pm CST
Equine Adolescent DBT
Teens learn skills to cope with emotional instability, impulsivity, and interpersonal relationships
Thursdays: 4pm CST
Facility Location
Big Wolf Equine Center 9360 Credit River Blvd. Prior Lake, MN 55372
Map & Directions
Hours And Contacts
M-F Hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm Sat/Sun Hours: 8:00am - 3:00pm Phone: 952-228-0370 Contact Us
Contact Us To Request A Confidential Consultation
*We provide services for adults and youth age 12 and older.
©2020 Four Directions Behavioral Health LLC.