ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses equine-connected eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing, a specialization within the broader Natural Lifemanship treatment model of trauma-focused equine-assisted psychotherapy, that can effectively address both the psychological and physiological effects of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Equine-connected eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing combines the tenets of traditional eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) with trauma-focused equine-assisted psychotherapy by adding the grounding, regulating, and integrating component of the relationship between the client and the horse to the standard protocol. The chapter outlines how to utilize the technique of a resource called Connected Calm Space in equine-connected eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing to help the client connect to their body in a regulated manner without either traveling down or up the arousal continuum by dissociating or abreacting. When triggered, the client has the ability to access this resource to ground and regulate.
