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An Introduction to Equine Assisted Psychotherapy: Principles, Theory, and Practice of the Equine Psychotherapy Institute Model

How can horses become meaningful participants in psychotherapy while their own needs, welfare, and individuality remain respected?

In this thoughtful and professionally grounded book, Meg Kirby, psychotherapist and founder of the Equine Psychotherapy Institute, introduces a comprehensive approach to equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP).

Rather than viewing horses simply as therapeutic tools, Kirby presents a relational model in which horses are recognised as active participants in experiences that support awareness, emotional exploration, and personal development.

Connecting psychotherapy theory with equine-assisted practice

The Equine Psychotherapy Institute (EPI) Model brings together established psychological approaches and experiential work with horses.

The book explores theoretical foundations including:

• Gestalt psychotherapy and relational approaches

• Mindfulness and awareness-based psychotherapy

• Somatic experiencing and trauma-informed practice

• The therapeutic relationship and the I–Thou philosophy

• Emotional regulation and the development of personal resources

• Experiential learning and personal growth

Understanding the EPI Model

Kirby explains the principles that guide the model, providing a framework for professionals interested in integrating horses into psychotherapy responsibly.

Readers are introduced to:

• The distinction between equine-assisted psychotherapy and equine-assisted learning

• Seven foundational principles of the EPI Model

• The role of horses in therapeutic relationships

• Developing meaningful therapeutic and learning goals

• Understanding patterns of behaviour and emotional responses

• Creating experiential activities involving horses

• Professional boundaries, ethics, and responsibilities

From theory to practice

The book also examines how the model can be applied in therapeutic settings.

Practical discussions include:

• Designing equine-assisted therapeutic experiences

• Working with clients through relational and experiential methods

• Understanding the importance of safety for both people and horses

• Applying trauma-informed principles

• Reflecting on therapeutic case studies

• Maintaining professional integrity and ethical standards

A particularly important aspect of the EPI Model is its emphasis on respecting horses as sentient individuals, rather than treating them merely as instruments for achieving human therapeutic goals.

Who is this book for?

• Psychologists, psychotherapists, and counsellors

• Equine-assisted psychotherapy practitioners

• Equine-assisted learning facilitators

• Students of psychology and animal-assisted interventions

• Equine professionals interested in ethical therapeutic work

• Readers exploring the psychological dimensions of human–horse relationships

With 158 pages, this book provides a focused introduction to a specific model of equine-assisted psychotherapy, combining theoretical explanations, professional principles, and practical examples.

A valuable specialist resource for readers seeking a deeper understanding of how psychotherapy, experiential learning, and respectful relationships with horses can come together in professional practice.