learning & wellness
Grounded in ethics and current research, Animal Assisted and Equine Facilitated Wellness are therapeutic modalities that include animals as equal partners in the healing process. Our approach is client-centered and trauma sensitive, and supports individuals and groups in mental health and wellness, learning and growth.
our approach
Animal Assisted and Equine Facilitated Learning and Wellness (AA/EFLW) is an approach to mental health and wellness that emphasizes the body-mind connection. It promotes self awareness, social and communication skills. and provides tools for coping with personal challenges and problem solving.
AA/EFLW is a three-way partnership between the client, animal partner/nature, and the facilitator. Animals are experts at helping us see ourselves. They do so by responding to us in a way that can show us what is happening in our inner world. This is not a mirror effect but rather an innate survival mechanism of the animal. In other words, animals that are often hunted (at least in a non-domesticated setting) need to know the intent of the animal (us) that hunts them. This intent is often unconscious to us but very real to the animal regardless of whether they are in actual danger.
how aa/eflw helps
With gentle guidance from the facilitator, clients become more aware of their environment, both inner and outer. The client explores the subtle changes in the animal that they are interacting with while also noticing what is happening inside their own body. For example, is the client ignoring what they are feeling or distracting themselves? What happens when the client takes a deep breath or tenses their body?
Increasing awareness of what is around us, invites a gentle somatic-focused recovery from life stressors and past trauma. This is not psychotherapy but a gentle coming to awareness of how we are really feeling. With safety and insight we discover choice. And with choice our life opens up to be who we want to be. This somatic approach allows us to create positive resources to integrate into our daily life.
Grounded in trauma-informed research, AA/EFW successfully supports and empowers clients to learn more about themselves. Whether this is a path of recovery from trauma or learning to manage a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD and self-esteem issues.
what does a session look like?
All of our sessions take place in nature―the ultimate teacher and compassionate listener―and each session is unique depending on the needs of the client. Although we are specialists in Animal Assisted and Equine Facilitated Wellness, sometimes what is needed or desired is a walk through the field or spending time beneath the Grandfather tree. However the hour is spent, all sessions are gentle avenues for self-exploration in a safe, stress-free and life affirming environment.
At Anam Cara, we believe that each individual no matter what age, has inherent wisdom that works towards healing. By encouraging autonomy, and safely empowering clients to explore their inner worlds and comfort zones, healing happens.
ready to sign up or curious to learn more?
If you're interested in any of our counseling services, we invite you to reach out and learn more. We’re here to support you on your path to well-being.