The Heard Space

Counselling

Grounded in the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), our counselling services emphasize collaborative problem-solving and empowerment. Through tailored exercises and activities, we cultivate psychological flexibility, empowering individuals to stride purposefully towards their desired life.

With our support, Individuals can feel safe to voice their truth, overcome feelings of self-doubt and negative self-talk, and embrace the journey of self-discovery.

Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL)

Equine-facilitated learning is an alternative approach to traditional therapy that invites individuals to forge deep connections with horses as they navigate through their inner landscapes. By fostering trust and rapport with horses, individuals explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a profoundly meaningful way.

Counselling with EFL provides a positive gateway to improvements in self-confidence, self-assurance, focus, mindfulness, coping strategies and more. Our horses are specially trained in the facilitation process, ensuring a positive and safe experience for both humans and horses.

Our Equine-Facilitated Learning sessions, where horses play a co-facilitative role, offer unique insights for participants. Innately sensitive to their environment, horses reflect our inner states, serving as mirrors for self-discovery and, unveiling profound truths which can be discussed and explored with the support of our counsellor.

Photo credit: Alice L. Allen

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) Based Counselling

Collaborative Problem Solving to Empowerment

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) stands apart from traditional therapies by placing little emphasis on delving into your past. Here, you're not obligated to recount past traumas repeatedly. While we might touch upon certain historical events to understand recurring patterns, our primary focus lies in the present moment. We equip individuals with practical skills to navigate life's challenges meaningfully.

To assist in the journey, we integrate the six core processes of ACT therapy: Be Here Now, Watch Your Thinking, Open Up, The Noticing Self, Know What Matters, and Do What It Takes.

Ready to be heard?

Are you ready to take the first step towards the life you desire? Contact us today to arrange an appointment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Please connect with us if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Who are our services for?

We provide counselling services for clients over 18 years of age and Equine Facilitated Learning for clients 14 years of age and onwards. Our areas of support include grief and loss, anxiety and depression, stress management, goal setting, self awareness, self-development, emotional flexibility and managing the curveballs life can throw at you.

What does Equine facilitated mean?

Equine facilitated learning also known as equine-assisted psychotherapy, is, as the name suggests, therapy that features interactions with horses. In a 60-minute session, a licensed mental health professional facilitates the EFL sessions between the client and the horse.

What are the benefits of Equine Facilitated Learning?

Equine Facilitated Learning and Therapy offers a range of transformative benefits, including:

Enhanced self-awareness and emotional management through increased connection to oneself and the environment.
Greater presence in the moment, which helps alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression.
Improved skills in setting boundaries and managing difficult emotions such as anger, frustration, and conflict.
Strengthened communication skills and a reinforced sense of personal responsibility.
Boosted self-esteem and accountability.
Enhanced coping mechanisms and problem-solving abilities.
Increased confidence, self-assurance, and focus through targeted EFL exercises and discussions.
Development of both verbal and non-verbal communication skills.

For more detailed information, please visit our resources page.

How does Equine Facilitated Learning work?

Exercises are undertaken (between client and horse) and observation of the behaviours displayed provides the basis for reflection and discussion.

What does Equine Facilitated Learning involve?

We facilitate numerous EFL exercises requiring clients to work closely with our horses utilising verbal and non-verbal communication. Exercises are designed to build trust and confidence in self and within the human-horse relationship.

Do I need to know how to ride a horse to do EFL?

No. Exercises are conducted on the ground. No horseback riding is involved.

What is "mindfulness" at the heard space?

At The Heard Space, we interpret and practice mindfulness with a unique and inclusive approach. While some perspectives of mindfulness emphasize a spiritual journey of clearing the mind of all thoughts, our method focuses on being present in the moment and accepting any thoughts or feelings as they arise and pass.

By observing the continuous flow of thoughts and becoming attuned to the accompanying emotions, we cultivate greater self-awareness. Embracing these experiences without judgment is the first step towards self-acceptance. As we release judgments of "good" or "bad," we begin to detach from these thoughts, fostering a return to self in physical, mental, and emotional dimensions.

This practice of mindfulness enhances our ability to live in the present, promoting a deeper connection with ourselves and a more balanced and fulfilling life.

the heard space