These programs are all facilitated by Epona Approved Instructors. They cover the basic philosophy and methods of the Epona Approach™ to Equine Facilitated Experiential Learning, as described below.
Participation in one of these workshops is a prerequisite for individuals wishing to do advanced work at Epona, and is also required prior to acceptance into the Epona Apprenticeship Program. See workshop listings below and corresponding websites for details.
These workshops include the basic philosophies, skills and activities required to prepare an individual for advanced work:
- Using emotion as information
- Accessing a more authentic, creative presence
- Recognizing and moving beyond conditioned behaviors and thought patterns
- Boundaries: establishing and maintaining clear and consistent personal space
- Body Scan: using the body as a sensing device
- Hands-on activities with horses as guides
- Developing essential skills for building Authentic Community
Specialty workshops and individually designed intensive study programs are also offered by Epona Approved Instructors and are listed on their individual websites, given below. Specialty workshops may cover areas such as advanced equestrian skills, heart/horse connections, leadership studies, managing life transitions, shamanic studies, mother/daughter bonding, eating disorders, trauma recovery and energy work.
All persons listed below are Epona Approved Instructors, authorized to use The Epona Approach™ in facilitating Equine Facilitated Experiential Learning (EFEL) programs. While Epona does not train people to do Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP), those who are licensed/certified/qualified psychotherapists and choose to add their Epona training to their psychotherapy practice, are professionally responsible for their choice and may list the EFP title. Those who are trained in other fields are also identified. The following code explains abbreviations:
- AAI – Advanced Approved Instructor
- EFP – Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy
- EIP – Epona Instructor Partner
- NARHA – North American Riding for the Handicapped Association
- EFMHA – Equine Facilitated Mental Health Association
- CEFIP – Certified Equine Facilitated Interaction Professionals, in Mental Health or Education