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. 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 training.

Steps to Certification as an Equine Specialist

certification

STEP 1: 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 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

Course Prerequisites

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 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

Learn more about Equine Specialist Fieldwork

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

REGISTER TODAY!

Register today for the Masterson Method Equine Specialist (MMES) Course and learn simple bodywork techniques you can share with EAAT program staff, volunteers and participants to use to help care for your horses.

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

Host a Masterson Method Equine Specialist Course

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Anonymous
EAAT Participant

Softening my hands was challenging. I’ve been going around with fists all the time and didn’t even know it.

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.…

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!

Linda Allen
Masterson Method Certified Equine Specialist and PATH Int’l Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor

The Masterson Method is the first [program] I have found that is for the horse; it is so very real and truly teachable to people. The Equine Specialist piece has been a tangible tool nobody can dispute that is effective for the client while not compromising the integrity of the horse.

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.…