Equine Therapy
Teen girls at Sunrise are offered an opportunity to experience Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP). Equine-Assisted Therapy at Sunrise is facilitated by licensed therapist Michele Peterson, LCSW, along with an experienced equine specialist. Our equine therapy team members are trained by EAGALA, the leading provider of education, standards, and support to equine therapists.
Equine Therapy is centered on metaphors. These metaphors mirror real life on many different levels and are used to raise young women's awareness of issues they carry. As individual issues arise within the equine setting the girls have en-vivo opportunities to work through such issues. Equine therapy is an effective modality to learn skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem solving. It provides a natural setting in which to face fears and increase confidence and self-esteem. Michele Peterson, LCSW, received her certification through EAGALA and runs our equine program.
Important Topics
Parenting and PTSD
Working through the parents’ PTSD symptoms can, in turn, help them cope with their daughter’s trauma. Once they understand that their daughter will be okay, the denial often breaks and real progress in family system can occur.
COMMON SENSE WELLNESS: LIVEABLE LIVING ROOMS
Families that spend quality time together tend to have at least one thing in common—a good place to hang out. If you’ve ever tried to have a relaxed conversation in an uncomfortable physical setting, you know that it’s almost impossible. Setting up an inviting common space in your home that encourages a combination of quiet activity and conversation can help foster communication and connection.
COMMON SENSE WELLNESS: MEALS TOGETHER
In today’s over-programmed culture, the idea of eating together as a family may seem quaint if not absurd. But the benefits of breaking bread regularly with others—especially family—are not only intuitively obvious, they’re also being confirmed by research. Healthier eating habits, social skills, family connection and communication, and even weight control are all positive outcomes that can be influenced by family meals.
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