FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 Why  come to Winds of Change?

Winds of Change is the first organisation to offer Equine Assisted Solutions™ in the UK to a professional standard as defined by the leading organisation in the field -  the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA). The EAGALA code of ethics and practice underpins our work and we adopt a team approach which includes a qualified counsellor and educator, a horse specialist and, of course, the horses!

Members of the team are Certified to EAGALA Level II (advanced) Training.

Why horses?

Horses have the ability to react in dynamic and sensitive ways to what human body language is telling them. They can also communicate using their own body language and in the way they respond to humans, giving immediate and honest feedback without judgment. The role they can play in EAP, EAL and EAPD results in an unique and intense therapeutic and learning experience which we believe people can then relate to the challenges they face in everyday life.

What is

What is our approach?

Awareness, Beliefs and Change

Central to Equine Assisted Solutions™ approach is how horses help:

•   raise our Awareness of ourselves, others and the world we live in

•   re-define our Beliefs

•   challenge each of us to Change towards healthier ways of living our lives.

    ....    the A-B-C of horses helping people.

Who are in the therapeutic team?

First and  most important - the horses! The human part of the team consists of a Counsellor, Educator & Horse Trainer and a Horse Specialist who bring their own professional expertise and shared experience to this unique way of working. Other professionals with expertise relevant to the work being done are also available to join the team where needed.

What Happens?

• challenges clients in non-threatening ways that are open and honest.

• quickly breaks down defensive and aggressive reactions.

• gives rise to immediate cause-and-effect situations.

• captivates and holds attention.

• promotes change from self limiting, dysfunctional patterns to more healthy ones.

• can be serious and fun all at the same time.

• can be directive (activity lead) or non-directive (reaction lead) to suit the client or group.

• gives opportunities for unique experiences to be generalised.

What are the benefits?

• promotes self-awareness and reflection.

• increases in self-confidence and self-esteem.

• leads to better communication, particularly non-verbal.

• helps with identifying strengths.

• improves relationships.

• gives sense of responsibility for self and others.

• develops self-discipline.

• increases problem solving skills.

• assertiveness grows.

• develops trust and respect.

• helps with focusing and working under pressure.

• brings about healthy leadership and teamwork.

• plenty of opportunity for fun and humour!

What preparation is needed?

We will agree  with the client, group, business or organisation on the focus of the work to be done in sessions or a workshop.

Information is provided in advance giving advice on suitable clothing for sessions which may be outside. During sessions safety is made a central part of the process.

Where does it take place?

Sessions take place either at our premises on the Black Isle near Inverness, Scotland using a purpose built round pen or at a local riding centre near Dingwall, Scotland in an indoor arena. There is the option of a mobile service using the round pen by prior arrangement in the Highlands and Central Lowlands. We will also travel to anywhere in the UK and Europe to run workshops where a suitable arena, horses and group of participants can be arranged.

What is involved in a session?

A typical session of an hour and half involves clients learning about themselves and developing skills by taking part in activities with the horses and then processing (discussing) feelings, thoughts and behaviours and how the experience relates to their everyday life, relationships with others or their work situation. Several sessions will be combined into a workshop for businesses or organisations running for half a day, a day or several days.

The approach can be either directive or non-directive depending on the focus of work. 90% of the work is done on the ground. A minimum of equipment is used. No previous horse experience is needed and there is no requirement to get on a horse as part of sessions.

How many sessions?

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is an intensive, effective and brief therapy and therefore 6 to 10 sessions is a normal pattern. However more sessions may be needed where necessary. It is also common to have breaks in therapy between intensive periods of work.

Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) & Equine Assisted Professional Development (EAPD) sessions are normally arranged as  for ½ day, 1 day and multi day workshops.

How is progress reviewed?

With certain clients and organisations, a review system is used to evaluate progress and decide on the future direction of the work. Where appropriate and after consultation, clients with special therapeutic needs may be referred on to other professional services.

How does confidentiality work?

Confidentiality is central to the work we do and respected to ensure the best possible opportunity for clients to use the sessions as fully as possible. Confidentiality is adhered to as stated in the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) Code of Ethics and Practice, particularly in relation to children. This relates to specifically to the Scottish legal framework and European legislation.

What is the cost?

Cost can vary according to the specific requirements of clients and agencies. Workshop and Retreat prices can be seen on the Programmes page. Contact us to discuss your particular needs and a quote can be given.

Safety

Safety is the most important concern when involved in EAP, EAL & EAPD. We encourage all our clients to develop greater awareness of safety issues and risk assessment and so learn to take responsibility for their own well being and contribute to the safety of others present. In all sessions, the horse specialist and therapist will observe closely clients and the activities they are involved in, pointing out possible dangers and planning ways to avoid injury. This includes basic safety observations through out sessions as part of the therapeutic / learning process.

Insurance

We have Professional Indemnity Insurance to cover Counselling, Learning and all Horse Activity.