ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the effects of relational trauma on the brain. It outlines the multidimensional processes involved and illustrates the way in which horses can help to restructure healing within the brain. Explanations are also offered for understanding why horses are so powerful within their interventions with clients that have experienced trauma and the differences equine-facilitated psychotherapy and cognitive-based therapy bring to this specific presentation. Finally, this chapter offers a case study of a client who has experienced relational, complex trauma and provides a formulation of the chapter presentations. This is followed by instructive exercises from the Leading Equine Assisted Practitioners model and a transcript and analysis documenting part of an equine-facilitated therapy session when working with this client.
