Therapeutic Model

Recently I was asked, "What makes Mt. Moriah's therapeutic model so different from other therapeutic models?" A thought provoking question...

First and foremost, Mt. Moriah: Horses, Surrender, and Healing will focus on Jesus Christ and His power to heal. In Zechariah 4:6, God's Word says, "Not by might not by power but by My Spirit, says the Lord of hosts...". True healing can only take place when one has surrendered to Jesus Christ and knows that it is not by their power but by the blood of Jesus Christ that sets them free.

Secondly, Mt. Moriah will use Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. "Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) incorporates horses experientially for emotional growth and learning. It is a collaborative effort between a licensed therapist and a horse professional working with the clients and horses to address treatment goals. EAP is intense and effective.

           EAP is experiential in nature. This means that participants learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses, and then processing (or discussing) feelings, behaviors, and patterns.

            The focus of EAP is not riding or horsemanship. The focus of EAP involves setting up ground activities involving the horses which will require the client or group to apply certain skills.  Non-verbal communication, assertiveness, creative thinking and problem-solving, leadership, work, taking responsibility, teamwork and relationships, confidence, and attitude are several examples of the tools utilized and developed by EAP.

             EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, famlies, and groups. EAP addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, PTSD, substance abuse, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs."

The third important component of Mt. Moriah's therapeutic model is Natural Horsemanship. Because I study Pat Parelli's model of natural horsemanship, I find, so far, that Pat Parelli's model will be the easiest to teach and learn. He has assembled a phenomenal teaching method that has proven results. 

             " The Parelli Program of horse training teaches expertise and success with horses based on the way horses relate and communicate in their natural world – hence the term natural horsemanship. 

                 Based on respect for and love of horses – and understanding horse nature and psychology – the Parelli program enables anyone at any level to have fun with horses and achieve amazing results…naturally. Parelli horse training avoids using force, fear, harsh bits or mechanical training aids in favor of love, language and leadership or, said another way: relationship, communication and trustworthiness."

These three words, relationship, communication, and trustworthiness are the core of humans. We thrive on relationships. We must communicate to have strong, healthy relationships. And we must prove ourselves trustworthy to maintain those relationships. What an amazing opportunity God has gifted us with to learn about oneself with a horse at one's side offering unconditional positive regard! 

The collaboration of these three elements-Jesus Christ, EAP, and natural horsemanship serve to not only help people with mental health issues, but also people who are going through the everyday battles of life. In a world where we are often taught a "learned helplessness" we can change, take responsibility for our actions, and learn how to live a balanced life in this world of chaos.

I believe with all of my heart that this model can change the notion that addictions can never be truly recovered from, especially eating disorders. Well world, here I am to show proof that through hard work, dedication, and the three elements incorporated in Mt. Moriah's therapeutic model you CAN overcome...but I stamp it with JESUS CHRIST and His healing power!