Frequently Asked Questions
EquineLibreUm was created from a deep respect for horses and a belief in their innate wisdom as sentient, relational beings. Our purpose is to support human learning, healing, and growth alongside horses, through ethical, consent-based Equine Assisted Learning (EAL).
What is EAL &
who is it for?
What are the benefits of Equine Assisted Learning?
What are your values, ethics and purpose?
Will there be any riding involved?
What does a session usually look like?
What are your policies for bookings, cancellations, etc.?
Equine Assisted Learning
What is it and who is it for?
Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) is a powerful, experiential approach to personal development where horses act as co-facilitators. Through guided, hands-on activities with horses, participants learn more about themselves, how they relate to others, and how they show up in the world.
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Horses are incredibly sensitive animals. They respond honestly and non-judgmentally to our energy, body language, and emotions. Because of this, they offer real-time feedback that helps us develop greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, trust, and authentic communication.
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In my sessions, I create safe, reflective spaces for individuals and groups to explore growth topics such as boundaries, leadership, confidence, and emotional resilience. Whether we’re working in stillness or movement, the learning is grounded in connection — to self, to others, and to nature.
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This work is especially valuable for:
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Teens navigating identity and emotion
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Adults seeking clarity, confidence, or healing
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Educators, caregivers, and leaders wanting to grow their presence and impact
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You don’t need horse experience. Just an open heart and a willingness to learn from one of nature’s wisest teachers.​​
Our Philosophy
At EquineLibreUm, our philosophy is grounded in deep respect for horses as sentient, relational beings with their own needs, boundaries, and wisdom.
We believe meaningful human learning happens with horses, never at their expense.
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Horses are not tools or commodities in our work. They are partners. Every Equine Assisted Learning experience is guided by ethics, presence, and consent.
​How We Work
Our approach values:
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Consent and choice for both horses and humans
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Presence over performance — there is nothing to achieve or get right
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Respect and reciprocity in all interactions
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Integrity and ethical practice in Equine Assisted Learning
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By slowing down and learning to truly listen to horses, participants gain insight into communication, emotional regulation, leadership, and relationship—while contributing to a more compassionate way of being with horses and the natural world.
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At EquineLibreUm, learning is not something we take from horses. It is something we are privileged to receive, when they choose to offer it.
The Process
What does a session usually look like?
Equine Assisted Learning is all about your growth journey with the help of horses. Your session is tailored to your needs and wishes. To ensure we reach the personal development goals, which we create together, we follow a simple and effective structure each time.
Pre-Planning
We manifest an intention
3 Safety Guideline
With horses and in life
6 Closure & Gratitudes
And then thank the horses
1 Check In
We sit down to check in
4 Making Contact
In a way that feels safe & right
Good Bye
We move on looking forward
2 Four Steps to Regulation
We ground & resource
5 Integration
We reflect on your experience
Benefits of Equine Assisted Learning
Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) offers a powerful, experiential way to develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, communication, and relational skills. Horses respond honestly to human behaviour, energy, and intention, providing immediate, non-judgemental feedback. This creates opportunities for deep insight, embodied learning, and meaningful change that extends beyond the session into everyday life.
What are the benefits of EAL?
Age 6-18
Young People
For young people, EAL supports emotional literacy, confidence, and healthy boundaries in a way that feels natural and engaging. Interacting with horses can help regulate nervous systems, build trust, and encourage responsibility and empathy. Learning alongside horses often feels safer than traditional talk-based settings, allowing young people to grow at their own pace.
Age 18 onwards
Adults
For adults, EAL provides space to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with themselves outside of daily pressures. Working with horses can highlight patterns in communication, leadership, and stress responses, supporting greater clarity, resilience, and self-trust. Many adults experience renewed perspective, grounded calm, and a deeper sense of authenticity through this work.
2-4 people
Small Groups
In small groups, EAL fosters connection, collaboration, and honest communication. Shared experiences with horses help groups explore dynamics such as leadership, boundaries, and teamwork in real time. This creates meaningful opportunities for learning together, strengthening relationships and building mutual understanding in a supportive, embodied way.
Mounted Sessions
Will there be any riding?
At EquineLibreUm, mounted sessions are approached with great care, patience, and respect for the horse–human relationship. Before mounting is ever considered, time is taken to build trust, allow the horse to get to know you, and for you to genuinely get to know the horse. Equally important is developing self-awareness, emotional regulation, and presence, as safety and harmony depend on both partners being calm, attentive, and willing. Mounted work only occurs when the horse offers clear consent and readiness, and when the human demonstrates grounded awareness. Our focus is always on consent-based practice and relationship building, rather than progression or performance.
Policies
What are your policies for bookings, cancellations, safety, etc.?
Our policies are in place to support safety, clarity, and a respectful experience for both people and horses. By booking a session, you agree to the following.
Bookings & Payment
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All sessions must be booked in advance. ​
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Full payment is required at the time of booking unless otherwise agreed. ​
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Your booking is confirmed once payment is received.
Cancellation and Rescheduling
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Cancellations or rescheduling made 48 hours or more before your session may be rescheduled or refunded.
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Cancellations within 48 hours of the session are non-refundable, as horses and facilitators have been reserved for you.
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If EquineLibreUm needs to cancel due to facilitator illness, horse welfare, or unsafe conditions, you will be offered a reschedule or full refund.
Weather Policy
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Sessions may proceed in light weather conditions.
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In cases of extreme heat, storms, or unsafe conditions, sessions will be postponed in consultation with you, with no penalty.
Safety and Participation
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Closed-toe shoes are required at all times.
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Please wear weather-appropriate clothing and bring water, sun protection, and any personal needs.
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Participation is always by choice. You are welcome to step back, pause, or observe at any time.
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For safety and horse welfare, instructions from the facilitator must be followed.
Health and Wellbeing
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Please disclose any relevant physical, emotional, or medical considerations on your intake form.
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Equine Assisted Learning is not a substitute for medical, psychological, or psychiatric care.
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If you are unwell on the day of your session, please contact us to discuss rescheduling.
Horse Welfare
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The wellbeing of the horses is central to EquineLibreUm.
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Horses may move away, disengage, or rest at any time. Their choices are respected.
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Sessions may be adjusted or paused to ensure horse welfare.
Confidentiality
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Personal information and shared experiences are treated with respect and confidentiality.
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Information will not be shared without your consent, except where required by law or where there is a risk of harm.
Photography and Media
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Photos or videos may only be taken with prior consent.
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Any media used for EquineLibreUm promotion will require written permission via the intake form or separate consent.
Children and Young People
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A parent or guardian must provide consent for participants under 18.
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Responsibility for arrival, departure, and supervision outside session times remains with the parent or guardian unless otherwise agreed.
Respectful Conduct
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EquineLibreUm is a calm, inclusive, and respectful space.
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Aggressive, unsafe, or disrespectful behaviour towards people or horses will result in the session being ended without refund.
Acceptance of Risk
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Working around horses involves inherent risk.
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By participating, you acknowledge these risks and agree to take responsibility for your own safety, as outlined in the risk waiver.
If you have any questions about these policies, please reach out before your session.
We look forward to welcoming you into this shared space of learning with horses.​​​