Equine-Assisted Therapy
Discover powerful healing through connection with horses—gentle teachers who mirror emotions and guide transformation without words.
The Healing Power of Horses
Equine-Assisted Therapy (EAT) harnesses the unique relationship between humans and horses to facilitate emotional growth and healing. Unlike traditional talk therapy, equine therapy is experiential—learning happens through doing, feeling, and being in relationship with these magnificent animals.
Horses are remarkably intuitive creatures. As prey animals, they evolved to be exquisitely sensitive to the emotional states of those around them. They respond immediately and honestly to human emotions, providing feedback that's often more direct and accurate than words. A horse doesn't care about your job title or social status—they respond to who you really are in the moment.
At Algarve Wellness Retreats, our equine therapy program is facilitated by certified equine-assisted psychotherapists working alongside our herd of therapy horses. Activities are carefully designed to address your specific therapeutic goals, whether that's processing trauma, building self-esteem, or developing healthier relationship patterns.
Most importantly, you don't need any horse experience to benefit from equine therapy. The majority of our work happens on the ground—no riding required. Our skilled facilitators create a safe container for you to explore emotions, practice new behaviors, and discover insights that translate directly to your daily life.
Emotional Awareness
Horses mirror your emotional state, providing immediate feedback
Trust Building
Develop trust through relationship with these gentle giants
Boundary Setting
Learn to establish and maintain healthy boundaries
Non-Verbal Communication
Enhance awareness of body language and presence
Equine Therapy Activities
A variety of activities designed to facilitate healing and personal growth
Groundwork
Exercises on the ground that build trust, presence, and communication skills
Grooming Sessions
Calming, nurturing activities that promote mindfulness and connection
Leading Exercises
Develop leadership skills and learn about boundaries and communication
Observation
Watch herd dynamics to gain insights about relationships and social systems
Reflective Processing
Process experiences with your therapist to integrate insights
Mounted Therapy
For some clients, therapeutic riding may be incorporated
Why Horses?
Horses live in the present moment. They don't judge, hold grudges, or have hidden agendas. They simply respond to what's happening right now—making them powerful mirrors for our emotional states.
When a horse responds to your presence—approaching, moving away, or changing behavior—it provides immediate, non-judgmental feedback about your emotional state and energy. This creates opportunities for insight and change that can be difficult to achieve through talk alone.
Therapeutic Applications
Equine therapy is effective for a wide range of conditions and goals.
Our Equine Therapy Program
Certified Facilitators
EAGALA-certified equine specialists with mental health credentials
Therapy Horses
Carefully selected and trained horses known for their gentle nature
Safety First
Comprehensive safety protocols and experienced handlers
Beautiful Setting
Sessions held at our partner equestrian facility near the coast
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Programs & Treatments
Explore complementary therapies and programs that may support your healing journey
Connect with Healing
Experience the transformative power of equine-assisted therapy. Our horses and facilitators are ready to support your journey.