Culturally
Competent
Equine
Assisted
Psychotherapy

The core philosophy behind EHI Healing Horses is based on the synergy of the relationship between client, therapist, and horse.  To develop a meaningful and trusted therapeutic relationship, it has to go one step further by meeting the social and cultural needs of your client.

Developing cultural competency is a first step in working effectively with at-risk clients and families. This involves learning about the cultural norms, values, beliefs, and practices of the clients served. Knowledge of, and sensitivity to, cultural issues directly affects the way clients share, and how therapists can enhance the therapeutic relationship.

Research has established that socio-cultural differences between patients and health care professionals influence many aspects of the medical encounter that can impact patient satisfaction, adherence, and health outcomes. 

• Patients respond better when instructions are delivered in their own language and their cultural background is taken into account.

• Knowledge of, and sensitivity to, cultural issues can impact the way patients share their medical needs, and how physicians and nurses can enhance communication, diagnosis, and treatment.

• For all patients, awareness of cultural subtleties by physicians and other health professionals can help improve patient care.

Cultural education for health care professionals is an important component of improving the quality of care delivered to diverse patient populations and can help in addressing racial/ethnic disparities in health care. 

We are proud to offer CEAP - Culturally Competent Equine Assisted Psychotherapy Certification -  a unique training and certification for mental health professionals and horse specialists.