With adults and adolescents.
Equine-assisted therapy (EAP) is a form of therapy that invites horses into the relationship between client and therapist.
Horses offer a non-judgmental presence and opportunities for experiential learning that can complement traditional talk therapy. As highly attuned herd animals, horses respond to their environment and the individuals around them in ways that can create meaningful opportunities for self-awareness, reflection, and growth.
Sessions may involve observing, grooming, leading, or interacting with horses on the ground. No horse experience is required, and sessions do not involve riding. The focus is on exploring thoughts, emotions, relationships, patterns, and experiences through interactions with the horses and the environment.
Equine-assisted psychotherapy can support clients in developing greater awareness of emotions, boundaries, communication styles, nervous system responses, and patterns of relating to themselves and others. Many people find that being outdoors and engaging with horses offers a different way of accessing insight, processing experiences, and connecting with themselves.
Participation with the horses is always voluntary. Together, we will move at a pace that feels safe and appropriate for you. Alternative spaces are available whenever you prefer not to work directly with the horses, and traditional talk or somatic therapy remains an important part of the therapeutic process.
No prior experience with horses is necessary. Curiosity is enough.
Sessions take place on our private farm in Revelstoke, BC, a few minutes South of town toward Mt Macpherson. Directions will be provided privately.
Please note that initial sessions are held at Ascent Psychology in Revelstoke BC to assess suitability for equine-assisted therapy. You can book an initial session via email (brittanya@ascentpsychology.ca) or online at https://aws-portal.owlpractice.ca/brittanyab/booking
Brittanya is booked to further her education in child centered animal-assisted therapy this fall.
With children.
Sessions are not yet available for children.
Email brittanya@ascentpsychology.ca to join the fall waitlist for child centered animal-assisted therapy.
With horse owners and their horse.
Brittanya brings almost 20 years of working as an Equine Sport Therapist and is trained as an Equine Hanna Somatics practitioner. She combines her knowledge of equine anatomy and behaviour with her counselling education to work with both horse and handler/rider to address their relationship.
Brittanya supports clients who want to address their relationship with their horse and the challenges that result. This might look like new-found anxiety or panic around your horse, gait challenges like lead changes, new or persistent behavioural challenges, and anything in between. Her first suggestion is always veterinary check-ups, and she supports horse-human relationships through counselling by addressing what individuals are bringing to their relationship with their horse partners.
Please note these sessions are subject to a fuel surcharge depending on location. Clients outside of Revelstoke, BC will be subject to a travel fee that can be split between multiple clients.
Meet our team
Meet our clinical counsellor and animals who participate in animal-assisted therapies on the farm.
Brittanya Beddington, MA, CCC
Canadian Certified Counsellor
Fancy
Quarter Horse
Gary
Corgi/Border Collie
Gracie
Quarter Horse
“The horse does not care about your words, only your feel.”
Tom Dorrance
FAQs
How do I book an equine/animal-assisted psychotherapy session?
All intake sessions are booked at Ascent Psychology away from the animals so we can have distraction-free time to do an intake and talk about any concerns or issues that might stand in the way of working with animals. You can book an Initial Session at Ascent Psychology with Brittanya via email (brittanya@ascentpsychology.ca) or online at https://aws-portal.owlpractice.ca/brittanyab/booking
How do I find out more about equine-assisted psychotherapy?
You are welcome to book a free 15 minute phone consultation with Brittanya via email (brittanya@ascentpsychology.ca) or online at https://aws-portal.owlpractice.ca/brittanyab/booking
Do you offer equine-assisted therapy for kids?
I currently only work with adults and adolescents. However, this October I will be engaging in a child centered animal-assisted therapy training and then working under the supervision of a registered psychologist to offer sessions for kids under 12. If you would like to add your family to the waitlist, please email brittanya@ascentpsychology.ca.
How much are equine-assisted sessions?
Sessions are currently $160 for 50 minutes and are offered by a Canadian Certified Counsellor, which means that if you have extended benefits that cover counselling, your sessions will likely be covered. Always check your plan first.
How do I prepare for my equine-assisted therapy session?
Ensure you have filled out all of the forms you have been sent by the clinic and have informed Brittanya of any mobility or medical issues you have. Wear closed-toe outdoor shoes (not steel toe), pants, and weather-appropriate gear (ie. sunscreen or a light long sleeve for sunny days, rain gear for rainy days, etc). Please note that it can be buggy here, so it is recommended to bring or wear bug spray or bug-proof clothing depending on the season. When you have concerns make sure to contact Brittanya.
Book a free consultation.
- Ask your questions about equine or animal-assisted therapies.
- Discuss whether EAP might be a good fit for you or your teen.
- Email brittanya@ascentpsychology.ca
