Masterson Method Equine Specialist Course

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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)

USA

March 15-17, 2023  Salinas, CA  (Wed-Fri course)
March 31-April 2, 2023 Richmond, IL
May 19-21, 2023 Montrose, CO
June 1-3, 2023 Dardanelle, AR  (Thur-Sat course)
June 4-6, 2023 West Linn, OR  (Sun-Tues course)
**If you find a course that works for you and has openings, we do recommend registering as soon as possible. Our courses have been filling much faster than usual. If a course is FULL, email to be added to any course 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

Course Objectives

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

Course Prerequisites

Students must meet the following prerequisites:

Course Options for MMCPs

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

Learn more about Equine Specialist Fieldwork

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

Are you interested in earning a free spot in the Equine Specialist course?

Host a Masterson Method Equine Specialist Course

Learn More
Student

Just do it. 🙂

Student

This class [MMES] is an incredible way to build connection and trust with your horse and an amazing way to share it with others.

Anonymous
Masterson Method Certified Equine Specialist

I worked with a client who had serious sexual trauma. She held her feelings inside all the time. Working the bladder meridian made this client realize that the horse was holding onto his feelings too. As the horse responded to her she began crying as she realized she needed to let her own feelings go.…

Alice Long
Masterson Method Certified Practitioner

The MMES training was wonderful! I went back to [the barn] yesterday and had three horses, and the training I received this weekend really helped me connect more [with the horse] and go even softer during my sessions. I just loved the training. What an awesome program MMES really is!

Student

This course [MMES] was beyond my expectations. I learned so much from the teacher and every person in attendance. My work with horses and people will be new, informed by this experience.

Lois Krahl
Masterson Method Equine Specialist

Smokey seemed to have a smile on his face as he licked & chewed. As he was relaxing, I felt myself relaxing and enjoying the feedback from him. This was a true give & take experience. By my feeling his willingness & calmness, I became calm. I was able to give him a ‘softer hand’…

Vanessa
PATH Int’l Certified Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning

I think when you give, you get something back, as long as the intent is pure. I think about some of the kiddos I’ve mentored or worked with, and the idea that they would be important enough to make a difference in a horse’s life has dramatic effects on them for a variety of reasons.…

Katie Fallon
PATH Int’l Certified Advanced Level Therapeutic Riding Instructor, Masterson Method Equine Specialist Fieldwork Student

I have shared the Bladder Meridian Technique with a number of clients, many of whom experience anxiety and post-traumatic stress.  These clients have reported experiencing a variety of benefits from the work, including improved energy and focus, mindfulness and emotional regulation, and gratitude for the ability to share something that the horse demonstrates to be…

Jim Masterson doing a light touch technique