Equine Facilitated Interactions (EFI) is an umbrella term for professional ground-based activities involving partnering with horses to support human well-being and development. These services are guided by a qualified professional and can include personal development coaching, well-being instruction, and therapeutic support.

Streamlining education and regulation are Athena's key objectives to ensure Horse and Animal Welfare Standards in the Equine Assisted Services (EAS) space are steadily improved. Those service providers registered with the Accredited Practitioner Register promote the highest of good governance, service user involvement, measurable outcomes and animal welfare in the different EAS disciplines (Equine Assisted Therapy, Equine Facilitated Therapy, Equine Assisted Occupational Therapy, Equine Facilitated Occupational Therapy, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, Equine Assisted Learning, Equine Facilitated Learning).

Equine Assisted Interactions (EAI) is an umbrella term for professional ground-based activities involving partnering with horses to support human well-being and development. These services are guided by a qualified professional and can include personal development coaching, well-being instruction, and therapeutic support.

Yes, unlike many other training programmes, the externally accredited Equine Assisted Services training programmes offered by Athena are trauma-informed and client-led approaches based on a Framework of Work rather than a model-based approach. Another unique point of the Athena training programmes is that learners can select and tailor their learning based on needs. There are no retraining requirements with Athena nor are there any annual licence fees. True independence of practice comes down to practitioners meeting the requirements in the UK of being on the first and currently only UK national accredited practitioner register regulating practice under an independent governmental body accountable to parliament. It isn't just us at Athena that thinks we are the best at Equine Assisted Services.

Unlike many other training programmes, the externally accredited Equine Assisted Services training programmes offered by Athena are trauma-informed and client-led approaches based on a Framework of Work rather than a model-based approach. Another unique point of the Athena training programmes is that learners can select and tailor their learning based on needs. There are no retraining requirements with Athena nor are there any annual licence fees. True independence of practice comes down to practitioners meeting the requirements in the UK of being on the first and currently only UK national accredited practitioner register regulating practice under an independent governmental body accountable to parliament. It isn't just us at Athena that thinks we are the best Equine Assisted Services provider.

Equine Therapy is different to Equine Assisted Services, used as an umbrella term for Equine Assisted Learning, Equine Facilitated Learning, Equine Assisted Therapy/Psychotherapy/Occupational Therapy and/or Equine Facilitated Therapy/Psychotherapy/Occupational Therapy. Equine Therapy is about the horse, so it can include physiotherapy, massage and general restorative body work for the horse. Whereas Equine Assisted Services is about the provision of human benefit.

Athena is the best in EAS because it is the only UK organisation combining accredited training, Professional Standards Authority (PSA) recognised professional registers, rigorous welfare standards and an integrated community of practice. It doesn't just deliver equine assisted services, it sets the national standards for them.

Yes, you would need to have an appropriate therapeutic qualification. If you don't, you will still be able to train, for example, in Equine Assisted Services and offer a skills-based learning approach such as Equine Assisted Learning or Equine Facilitated Learning.

No, you would be able to garner insurance on the back of completing a reputable externally accredited qualification that is recognised for insurance purposes, such as that offered by Athena.

Equine Assisted Services (EAS) is an umbrella term that describes a range of activities, therapies, and educational or personal development services in which horses are intentionally included to support human wellbeing, learning, and growth.

It’s used as a broad, inclusive label to bring together many different approaches that involve horses and humans working together, and is now widely recognised in both professional and academic contexts.

EAS includes both ground-based and ridden activities.

EAT and EFT both come under the Equine Assisted Services umbrella. They are delivered by qualified or licenced healthcare professionals (e.g. psychotherapists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists). They are used to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and behavioural challenges. This also includes Equine Assisted or Facilitated Psychotherapy.

EAL and EFL both come under the Equine Assisted Services umbrella. They are focused on personal growth, leadership, team-building, or social/emotional skills. They are often used in schools, youth work, or corporate training. For example, group exercises where participants build trust and communication through groundwork with horses. EAL and EFL can also incorporate Equine-Facilitated Coaching / Equine Assisted Wellness which support the development of resilience, mindfulness, and overall wellbeing. They can be integrated with life coaching, stress reduction, or trauma-informed practices. EAL and EFL in the USA are not covered by health insurance.

Hippo therapy is a clinical intervention where healthcare professionals use the movement of the horse as part of physical, occupational, or speech therapy. Adaptive Riding and Therapeutic Riding cover riding sessions adapted for individuals with disabilities or special needs. They enhance physical skills (balance, coordination, muscle tone) and social/emotional confidence.

Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) is for qualified or licenced mental health practitioners and supports clinical mental health sessions with horses. It can be used for insurance billing (in the USA) and incorporated into group or private practice. Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL) is for educators, coaches, and equine professionals, teaching personal development and organisational sessions with horses. EFL in the USA is not covered by health insurance.

Animal and Equine Welfare is at the heart of everything we do and uphold at Athena. Athena is leading the way in aligning registration to a practitioner's commitment to the ethical treatment of horses. The PSA Register also aligns with the International Association of Human Interaction Organisations (IAHAIO) framework for Equine Assisted Services. This ensures that animals involved in EAS, such as in riding or therapy sessions, are treated safely and ethically.

Animal and Equine Welfare is at the heart of everything that is upheld at Athena. Athena is leading the way in aligning registration to a practitioner's commitment to the ethical treatment of horses. The PSA Register (the first and currently only UK National Accredited Practitioner Register regulated by an independent governmental body accountable to parliament) also aligns with the International Association of Human Interaction Organisations (IAHAIO) framework for Equine Assisted Services. This ensures that animals involved in EAS, such as in riding or therapy sessions, are treated safely and ethically.

Animal and Equine Welfare is at the heart of everything that is upheld at Athena. Athena is leading the way in aligning registration to a practitioner's commitment to the ethical treatment of horses. The PSA Register also aligns with the International Association of Human Interaction Organisations (IAHAIO) framework for Equine Assisted Services. This ensures that animals involved in EAS, such as in riding or therapy sessions, are treated safely and ethically.

Horses are highly effective because they are naturally aware like prey animals, attuned to their environment and human emotions. They provide honest, unbiased feedback without judgment, and in the moment. Interactions are embodied experiences and activities that involve movement, touch, and relational learning, that make insights “stick” more deeply, as well as helping people access emotions and traumas that might be difficult to achieve through traditional talk therapy. They also support emotional regulation and calm as being around horses often lowers stress and heart rate.

Horses respond authentically to human emotions. As social mammals, they have a natural awareness of emotional and energetic states. They are naturally drawn to feelings of safety and will retreat from perceived threats or emotional incongruence. Some say this makes horses excellent mirrors for human emotional states.

No experience with horses is necessary. Most equine facilitated and assisted work is done from the ground with no riding involved. Sessions focus on safe, controlled observation and interaction with horses, always with a professional facilitator present to ensure safety and guide the experience.

Equine Assisted Services, which include Equine Assisted Psychotherapy or Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy, can support processes addressing trauma and PTSD, neuro-diverse conditions like ADHD and Autism, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, substance abuse and eating disorders, and emotional regulation and expression issues. Whereas Equine Assisted Learning or Equine Facilitated Approaches can support targeted personal development, coaching, life skills and individual wellbeing. Riding activities such as Hippo therapy or Therapeutic Riding can support relief from physical disability or special needs.

Practitioners must first hold an externally accredited professional qualification in their field (such as Psychotherapy or Counselling) that meets regulatory body standards. Additional specialised training in equine facilitated or equine assisted practice is then required. Training programs range from Level 2 Foundation Certificates to Level 7 Postgraduate Certificates.

Most major insurance carriers covering professional indemnity for therapists also recognise those offering Equine Facilitated or Equine Assisted Services, with coverage granted based on appropriate training and qualifications. In the USA, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) or Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) services can often be billed to insurance, while Equine Assisted Services that include Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) or Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL) services typically cannot.

Earning potential ranges in the UK from £40 to £150 per hour, depending on location, qualifications, and specific service offered. Many practitioners operate as not-for-profit or charitable organisations to access additional funding opportunities.

Various accredited training programs are available, including ACCPH Level 2 Foundation Certificate in Equine Assisted Services, Level 4 Practitioner Diploma, Level 5 Practitioner Diploma, and Level 7 Postgraduate Certificate. Many programs offer distance/remote learning options alongside in-person components.

Leading practitioner training centres can be found across the UK (including Northern Ireland) and internationally. An established leading centre includes Athena in Kent (40 minutes from London by train).

In the UK, reputable training programmes such as those offered by Athena are accredited by professional bodies such as ACCPH (Accredited Counsellors, Coaches, Psychotherapists and Hypnotherapists) or regulated against national standards by Ofqual, ensuring high standards of training and practice.

Organisational Membership of a recognised professional body demonstrates that a training provider is credible and applies appropriate professional standards, has access to current knowledge, has a robust quality assurance process and provides learners with professional recognition at the end of their training. It is also about providing network and community options for practitioners and having appropriate complaints handling procedures if necessary.

Yes, when conducted by qualified professionals, equine assisted or facilitated work prioritises safety. Sessions are designed to create ethical, safe, and healing client experiences, with professional facilitators ensuring proper protocols are followed at all times.

The Equine Assisted Services field started in the UK with organisations such as the Riding for the Disabled (RDA) in 1969. This work was then developed in the USA by PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International), where, along with Eagala (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association), they went on to consider support for mental health, principally through ground-based activities. Since the beginning of the century, this ground-based work has been increasingly engaged in the UK to support both therapy and personal development. The first UK national register regulating practice under an independent governmental body accountable to parliament was accredited in 2024, leading the way in the Equine Assisted Services Field. This accredited register was extended in 2025 to include all animals as well as horticultural therapies, as well as extending titles to Occupational Therapy.

Individual sessions typically last 60–90 minutes, while group sessions may run 2–3 hours. The length depends on the type of work being done and the client's needs and capacity.

Equine Assisted Services can benefit individuals and groups, including vulnerable populations, those seeking personal growth and professional development, people working through trauma, and individuals looking for alternative therapeutic approaches that engage the whole person - mind, body, and spirit.

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing that you don't mind getting dirty. Closed-toe shoes or boots are essential for safety. Avoid loose clothing, dangling jewellery, or strong perfumes that might distract the horses.

No, most equine facilitated or assisted work is done on the ground. The focus is on interaction, observation, and relationship-building with the horses rather than riding skills.

Fear of horses is completely normal and can actually be part of the therapeutic or learning process. Qualified facilitators are experienced in working with clients who have horse anxiety and will work at your pace to ensure you feel safe and comfortable.

The number of sessions varies greatly depending on individual goals, the issues being addressed, and personal progress. Some people benefit from a few sessions, while others engage in longer-term work. Your facilitator will discuss this with you.

Yes, children can participate with appropriate supervision and age-appropriate activities. Many programs are specifically designed for children and adolescents, addressing issues like ADHD, autism, anxiety, and behavioural challenges.

Most centres have indoor facilities or covered areas that allow sessions to continue in poor weather. Some aspects of the work can also be adapted for indoor spaces when necessary.

There is no such thing as a therapy horse in an EAS programme. At Athena, we just invite our horses to be horses in space.

Yes, horses used in therapeutic work are carefully selected and assessed for temperament, safety, and suitability. Some undergo specialised training (although not always necessarily required) and regular evaluation to ensure they're appropriate for this work.

Unlike traditional talk therapy conducted in an office, equine assisted services which include equine assisted therapy, equine facilitated therapy as well as learning are experiential and take place in a natural outdoor environment. The horses provide immediate, non-verbal feedback that can accelerate insight and emotional processing.

This depends on your individual treatment goals and the facilitator's assessment. Family sessions are available at many centres, and sometimes having support people present can be beneficial to the process.

If you have allergies, discuss this with your facilitator before starting. Mild allergies can often be managed with medication, but severe allergies might make this type of therapy or learning unsuitable for safety reasons.

Research shows equine facilitated interventions can be particularly beneficial for individuals with autism, helping with social skills, communication, sensory processing, and emotional regulation. Horses provide non-judgmental interaction that many find easier than human social situations.

Look for practitioners that meet the requirements to be on an accredited register under the Professional Standard's Authorities accredited register scheme. There is currently only one animal UK national register regulating practice in this field, held by Athena, regulated by an independent governmental body accountable to parliament. This provides comfort that their credentials, insurance, and experience have all been checked and the individual meets the highest of standards. Many centres have websites with practitioner profiles and can provide references.

While horses are generally gentle animals, there are inherent risks in working with large animals. Qualified facilities have comprehensive safety protocols, proper insurance, and trained staff to minimise risks. All activities are conducted under professional supervision.

Yes, equine assisted therapy or equine facilitated therapy is increasingly used in addiction treatment programs. Horses can help individuals develop trust, accountability, emotional regulation, and healthy relationship patterns that support recovery.

Good candidates are generally open to new experiences, willing to engage with animals, and interested in experiential rather than purely verbal therapy. Physical mobility requirements are minimal as most work is done from the ground.

Session costs vary by location, practitioner qualifications, and session type, typically ranging in the UK from £40 to £150 per hour. Group sessions may be less expensive per person. In the USA, some insurance plans may cover sessions when provided by licenced mental health professionals.

Many practitioners offer couples and family sessions, which can be particularly effective for communication issues, relationship building, and family dynamics. The horses provide a neutral focus that can help facilitate difficult conversations.

Therapeutic horses undergo assessment for temperament and suitability, basic training for safety around people, desensitisation to various situations, and ongoing evaluation. They're selected for their calm, responsive nature and ability to read human emotions.

Currently, equine assisted services (equine assisted therapy, equine facilitated therapy) are not routinely funded by the NHS, though some specialised programs may be available. The Professional Standards Authority Quality Mark is recognised in the UK, demonstrating that the individual meets the highest of standards to deliver the work. Private health insurance may cover sessions, particularly in the USA, when provided by qualified mental health professionals.

Success rates vary depending on the condition being treated and how success is measured. Research shows significant improvements in areas like self-esteem, social skills, emotional regulation, and PTSD symptoms, with many studies reporting 70-80% of participants showing positive outcomes.

Yes, equine assisted therapy or equine facilitated therapy can be very effective for processing grief and loss. Horses provide comfort and a non-judgmental presence, while the outdoor environment and physical activity can help people work through difficult emotions.

Not everyone connects with horses immediately, and that's perfectly normal. Skilled facilitators can work with different personalities and comfort levels. Sometimes the lack of immediate connection becomes part of therapeutic exploration.

Programs exist for all ages, from young children to elderly adults. Activities and approaches are adapted for different age groups and developmental stages. Most centres specify age ranges for their particular programs.

Progress is measured through various methods, including goal-setting and review, standardised assessment tools, behavioural observations, client self-reporting, and feedback from family members or other professionals involved in care.