March 31-April 2, 2023 Richmond, IL
May 18-20, 2023 Salinas, CA
May 19-21, 2023 Montrose, CO
May 26-28, 2023 Lyons, GA
June 1-3, 2023 Dardanelle, AR (Thur-Sat course)
June 4-6, 2023 West Linn, OR (Sun-Tues course)
Masterson Method Equine Specialist Course
Helping Horses & People in Equine-assisted Service Programs
Horses that serve in equine-assisted service programs can be challenged in different ways than performance horses, both physically and psychologically. We created the Masterson Method Equine Specialist Program specifically for the people and horses at equine-assisted service (EAS) programs. When you enroll in this program, not only will you learn to help EAS 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 and techniques of The Masterson Method.
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 an equine-assisted service 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.
Join us to learn simple bodywork techniques you can share with EAS program staff, volunteers and participants to use to help care for your horses.
Masterson Method Equine Specialist (MMES) Course Schedule
(courses are added to all of our lists all throughout the year, check back periodically or ask to be added to a waitlist)
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 EAS 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 EAS 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
If you are a Masterson Method Certified Practitioner and interested in pursuing the MMES certification, please contact the MMES Program Coordinator at before registering. We offer a discount to qualified MMCPs interested in assisting and attending. For more information, login to the Fieldwork School Site and look under Resources for our Continuing Education Opportunities.
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 EAS and non-EAS 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 EAS 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 EAS programs
- Equine bodywork students or professionals interested in serving in EAS programs
