Healing through connection, presence, and partnership with horses
What Is EAP?
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is an experiential, body-based therapy that allows clients to develop emotional awareness,
communication skills, and self-regulation—by working in relationship with a horse. Because horses communicate through body language
and instinct, they provide honest, in-the-moment feedback. Clients learn to be present, clear, and grounded—skills that can’t be practiced
through talk therapy alone.
Why Horses?
Horses are highly sensitive, intuitive animals. They respond to our energy, posture, intention, and presence—not our words. This creates a
space where:- Clients receive clear, immediate feedback- Communication must be intentional and nonverbal- Personal insight arises naturally without judgment- Clients learn through experience, not correction
Horses are also forgiving. They allow room for mistakes, growth, and self-discovery in a safe and supportive environment.
How EAP Helps
EAP sessions mirror real-life relationships and emotional patterns. Clients learn to read the horse’s cues—like a flick of the ear or shift in
energy—and respond appropriately. This fosters skills such as:- Emotional and somatic regulation- Respecting boundaries- Building trust and safety- Flexible problem-solving-
Confidence and assertiveness
Skills Developed in EAP- Mindfulness & grounding- Somatic awareness & body-based self-regulation- Emotional regulation & deep breathing- Interpersonal communication & boundary setting- Conflict resolution & assertiveness- Self-worth & self-care practices- CBT techniques: cognitive restructuring, thought stopping, reframing- Identifying and shifting maladaptive thought patterns- Role play and modeling- Developing adaptive coping strategies
Healing Through Metaphor
Many EAP sessions naturally invite metaphor. If a client struggles to complete a task with the horse, it may reflect a deeper pattern in their
life—like frustration, giving up too quickly, or fear of failure. Instead of being told what to change, the client experiences the process of
change firsthand.
Who Can Benefit?
EAP can be helpful for individuals struggling with:- Trauma and PTSD- Anxiety and depression- Attachment wounds- Boundary-setting issues- Low self-worth- Emotional dysregulation- Relationship challenges
Clients begin to reframe limiting beliefs (e.g., “I’m not good enough”) and replace them with empowering truths like “I am enough” or “I
don’t have to be perfect to be worthy.”
Meet Your EAP Provider
Rachel Tincher, LPCC
Rachel brings 28 years of horsemanship experience into her work as a trauma-informed mental health professional. Her approach blends:- Training through Greg Kersten’s OK Corral Series- Certification with Natural Lifemanship Institute- Advanced EMDR training through the S.A.F.E. model- Clinical expertise as a Licensed Clinical Counselor- Deep commitment to somatic, attachment, and trauma recovery
Rachel’s work centers connection, consent, and partnership—between horse, client, and therapist.
Getting Started
What to Expect:
1. Initial Mental Health Assessment – Conducted in-office to determine treatment goals and whether EAP is a good fit.
2. Customized Treatment Plan – EAP may be used alongside talk therapy, or as a primary therapeutic approach.
3. Individual & Family Sessions Available – Most sessions are one-on-one, with occasional options for family EAP work.
Ready to Explore EAP?
To learn more or schedule your initial assessment, contact Rachel through the website or by email