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Contact us in strict confidence on 01452 750599 or email help@steppsrehab.co.uk
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Alcohol Dependency*Drug Addiction*Gambling Addiction*Sex Addiction*Depressive Illness
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Additional Therapies

Multi-dimensional network of therapists, nurses and staff.
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Stepps offers a multi-dimensional network of therapists, nurses and support staff who are highly trained in specialised treatments and counselling.
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Additional Therapies
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Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

STEPPS are members of the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA)

Equine Assisted PsychotherapyEquine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is an emerging field in which horses are used as a tool for emotional growth and learning. EAP is a collaborative effort between a licensed therapist and a horse professional. Because of its intensity and effectiveness, it is considered a short-term, or 'brief' approach.

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy:

  • Challenges clients in a non threatening manner.
  • Rapidly breaks down defence barriers.
  • Provides immediate cause and effect situations.
  • Captivates and holds attention.
  • Promotes change from dysfunctional patterns to successful ones.

EAP is experimental in nature. This means that participants learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses, and then processing (or discussing) feelings, behaviours and patterns. This approach has been compared to the ropes courses used by therapists, treatment facilities and human development courses around the world. But EAP has the added advantage of utilising horses - dynamic and powerful living beings.

Equine Assisted PsychotherapyNot all programmes or individuals who use horses practice Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. For one, licensed clinical professions need to be involved for it to be considered "psychotherapy". The focus of EAP is not riding or horsemanship. In fact, 90% of EAP takes place purely on the ground. The focus of EAP involves setting up activities involving the horses which will require the client or group to apply certain skills. Non-verbal communication, assertiveness, creative thinking and problem-solving, leadership, work, taking responsibility, teamwork and relationships, confidence and attitude are several examples of the tools utilised and developed by EAP.

EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, families and groups. EAP addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioural issues, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, abuse issues, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs.
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