July 16-18, 2021 Wildwood, MO
October 8-10, 2021 Leesburg, VA
Masterson Method Equine Specialist Course
Helping Horses & People in Equine-assisted Learning/Therapy
Horses that serve in equine-assisted learning or therapy programs can be challenged in different ways than performance horses, both physically and psychologically. We created the Masterson Method Equine Specialist Course to help the people and horses at equine-assisted activity or therapy (EEAT). This application of The Masterson Method® is focused entirely on these horses and their needs. But not only will you learn to help therapy horses do their jobs better, you will also learn how to show program volunteers, staff, and qualified clients/participants how to practice some of the very basic principles of The Masterson Method using the Bladder Meridian and other light-touch techniques.
In addition to benefiting horses, we have found that doing this bodywork has a meaningful and often powerful impact on the people who are practicing it. We recognize how subtle changes in your body impacts the horse’s body, and how sensitive horses are to touch. Those practicing this bodywork on horses can improve their connection with the horse, develop greater self-awareness, and deepen their quiet, mindful presence.
Whether you have a learning/therapy program of your own or simply volunteer at a program, consider becoming a Masterson Method Equine Specialist. Since safety is critical, we require that you have at least two years of experience safely handling horses before attending this course.
Equine Specialist Course Schedule
Join us to learn simple bodywork techniques you can share with EAAT program staff, volunteers and participants to use to help care for your horses.
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Steps to Masterson Method Equine Specialist Certification
STEP 1: Masterson Method Equine Specialist Course
In this 3-day course, you will learn the basics of how to practice The Masterson Method with horses in equine-assisted activity or therapy (EAAT) programs AND how to help EAAT program participants (clients, students), volunteers, and staff do the simplest techniques with the horse to release tension, build trust and deepen connection.
Tuition: $595
Participants will—
- Learn how to practice the fundamental principles of The Masterson Method equine bodywork through following the horse’s responses
- Gain hands-on experience practicing select techniques on EAAT horses
- Learn about the unique needs of a lesson, coaching or therapy horse
- Learn the specific roles and responsibilities of a Masterson Method Equine Specialist and others involved in offering a safe and structured facilitated bodywork activity
- Plan and practice components of a facilitated bodywork session using role-play
- Understand safety guidelines and legal obligations as they pertain to EAAT participants and horses
Students must meet the following prerequisites:
- Have a minimum of two years of experience safely handling horses on the ground
- Read the Beyond Horse Massage book or watched the Beyond Horse Massage DVD or streaming video prior to attending
STEP 2: Equine Specialist Fieldwork & Exam
After attending the Equine Specialist course and with the instructor’s approval, you can continue your journey at home, working on a variety of horses in your area. You will be given assignments to practice on both EAAT and non-EAAT horses and then reflect on each session in writing. Your mentor will provide written feedback to guide subsequent practice sessions. Then, demonstrate your knowledge and skills using the online exam.
Tuition: $100
Who Is Training For?
MMES certification training is for EAAT professionals who wish to both support their program horses and offer an opportunity for their participants, volunteers, and staff to give back to the horse. By incorporating bodywork, professionals can help create an atmosphere of respect and connection with horses.
We expect individuals in the following fields will be interested in certification:
- Hippotherapy clinical specialists
- Adaptive riding (formerly referred to as therapeutic riding) instructors
- Equine-facilitated psychotherapists
- Equine-assisted learning instructors or coaches
- Volunteers serving in EAAT programs
- Equine bodywork students or professionals interested in serving in EAAT programs
