· Restorative Environment: Participants in EAP often experience the equine therapeutic environment as restorative. Being outdoors and interaction with horses creates a unique and calming atmosphere.
· Positive Emotional Experiences: Working with horses can evoke positive emotions, providing a contrast to the trauma survivors have endured. These emotional experiences contribute to healing.
· Increased Insight and Awareness: The nonverbal communication with horses allows survivors to gain insights into their emotions and reactions. Horses mirror human behavior, helping survivors become more self-aware.
· Improved Relationship Skills: Building trust and connection with horses can translate to improved relationship skills in survivors’ interactions with others.