Q: “Can I participate in EFL sessions if I am suffering with an active mental health crisis that needs therapeutic attention?”
It is very important that clients understand that programs are to be incorporated as a preventative to crisis and/or a maintenance practice to support wellness; NOT as therapy during crisis. For the sake of your welfare and others, I will always refer a client out of my scope and toward a recommended mental health specialist or psychotherapy program as needed AND/OR reserve the right to pause, delay, or refuse services if I observe concerning behaviors that may potentially pose a risk to the mental, emotional, or physical safety of myself or any and all participants involved.
Q: “Do I need to know anything about horses in order to participate?”
Absolutely not! We will help you to navigate every step of the way. Participants can engage in connection with the horse without knowledge about horsemanship. Connection happens in the heart, mind and spirit, which only require presence and permission.
Q: “Is it ok if I am afraid of horses?”
YES. Having a fear of such a large and powerful animal is perfectly normal and common. There are so many ways to engage in sessions without compromising your personal sense of safety. Participants always have the freedom of choice in how far to push themselves through fear.
Q: “What is a typical EFL session like?”
Typically for a one-hour session, participant(s) begin with a brief grounding exercise and safety message followed by a period of herd observation from outside the paddock. At this point, the flow of remaining time depends on personal choices made by the participant(s). Sometimes an entire session occurs outside of the fence, while other times a participant(s) is eager to have hands-on connection with the animals. Oftentimes, participants choose to ease into the horse’s space and gently stand among, but quietly existing at more of a distance. Those magical “AHA” moments are not something scripted, which is the whole point of the experience. Generally, after 30-40 minutes with the animals, we debrief the experience with dialogue and nature-based stress reduction activities before acknowledging key “take-aways” and intentions for follow-up.
Q: “What should I wear to an EFL session?”
Participants should dress for comfort according to the weather for that day, keeping in mind the duration of time they will be on-site. Closed-toe shoes, such as athletic shoes, sneakers or boots, are REQUIRED. No bare feet, sandals, slides, loafers, Crocs, or flip-flops will be allowed in session. Typically, if grounds are muddy or holding water from recent rains, you will be notified prior and reminded to wear waterproof gear for your session time.
Q: “What should I bring to an EFL session?”
We provide bug repellent, basic OTC meds and First Aid remedies as needed; however, please bring whatever items necessary to otherwise accommodate personal or medical needs. Further hospitality measures will be provided according to previous arrangements made with your group leader.
Q: “It’s so peaceful out there; can I bring a guest to just enjoy the grounds while I’m in session?”
No additional guests are allowed on the premises during session unless they are registered participants, especially minors (18y. and under). This rule is strictly enforced for the safety and security of all participating members.
Q: “How can I submit a grievance or concern about my experience with your programs or services?”
We welcome all feedback and if we have failed to meet your expectations in any way, please share your experience(s) by clicking on the Feedback button in the margin below and we will do our best to address any discrepancy.
**Disclosure of Non Discrimination: We have a zero tolerance policy for participants who, at any time in our company as a practice, threaten, attack, or cause mental, emotional or physical harm to others for one’s personal beliefs regarding religion, race, economic status, or any other marginalizing factor that one may use to discredit a fellow participant, employee, guest, etc.**
Ashley Faulk, CFLE 