Equine Assisted Learning Session – not just horsing around

Our Pilbara Community Alcohol and Drug Service (PCADS) team last week explored a new way build client confidence and connection, with a little assistance from some four legged friends.

The team and two clients attended an introductory Equine Assisted Learning Session through Pilbara Heart Horses, making friends with Breeze, Vegas and Max.

The sessions are participant and horse-led, and take place out in settings where both can relax and enjoy the surroundings.

These sessions are focused entirely on supporting participants to achieve their goals in a safe, fun, inclusive and nurturing environment.

“It was very calming, respectful and a nice slow pace – it was nice to stop and realign,” said one PCADS client.

A safe space for change

The goal of the PCADS team is to foster a positive, non-judgemental environment in which clients can discuss their alcohol and other drug use and explore alternatives, as well as improve their overall wellbeing, develop communication skills, foster connection and build confidence.

A second PCADS client was unsure about the session at first, but that quickly changed.

“When I was actually there it was one of the best days I have had in a while,” they said. “I have been working to reduce my anxiety and change my perspective on certain things for quite a while, and this day gave me a huge boost in my confidence that I will continue to get better.”

Participants also received a hat from Sober in the Country, a national charity that works to support Australians living in rural and remote areas to reduce their alcohol use.

The PCADS team is planning to continue these sessions in the future.

Hope Community Services provides a number of alcohol and other drug services around WA.