Parkfield Equine Solutions deliver TheHorseCourse, a world renowned method of equine assisted intervention. Using specially trained horses, they teach and rehearse eight core resilience skills, helping people overcome a broad range of challenges, from anxiety and depression to PTSD, ADHD and aggression.
A grant from Sussex Community Foundation went towards providing group workshops. After the sessions, 79% of TheHorseCourse participants reported experiencing improved relationships.
“I left with a feeling of calm in my chest that I haven't felt for years.”
L was referred to us after spending 10 months in a teenage inpatient unit. She was selective mute, suicidal and had a severe eating disorder. She has now been coming to us weekly for 6 months, working one-to-one with a facilitator and pony.
Initially, L sat in the car, unable to engage, her body language was very shut down. Gradually, L allowed the door to be open and we worked on her posture for seconds at a time, practising looking up at the pony and back down. This progressed to sitting at the edge of the car seat and grooming the pony from there. L then started to nod and express decisions eg which pony to groom and what game to play, for example asking the pony to move backwards into the stable from the car.
On week 21, L used her voice to converse and on week 22 she got out of the car on her own to hug the pony. Week 23 to 25, L was able to get out of the car, lead the pony to the arena and do a full hour session asking the pony to do an obstacle course - she even ran with the pony.
During the last few session, L was smiling, the feeding tube disappeared and we noticed she had painted her nails - evidence of some self care. Her parents are beyond ecstatic. We are committed to continue working with L longer term as this is literally life changing for her.
“It really helped me control my emotions.”
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