Question 1Knowledge Check

Which of the following best describes Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) as distinct from other equine-assisted modalities?

A riding-based program focused on improving motor function and balance

A goal-setting approach facilitated without a licensed mental health professional

A ground-based therapeutic modality co-facilitated by a licensed mental health professional and an equine specialist

A vocational training program using horses for personal development

Question 2Knowledge Check

In a co-facilitated EAP session, what is the primary clinical role of the Equine Specialist (ES)?

To direct the client's therapeutic process and interpret emotional patterns

To ensure equine and human safety while observing and communicating horse behavior to the mental health professional

To lead psychoeducation and provide emotional support to the client

To document clinical notes and manage session logistics independently

Question 3Knowledge Check

Which neurobiological concept describes the body's capacity to remain regulated enough to engage therapeutically — neither hyperaroused nor hypoaroused?

Bilateral stimulation

Window of tolerance

Somatic transference

Polyvagal reciprocity

Question 4Knowledge Check

Which equine behaviors may carry clinical significance during an EAP session?

Select all that apply.

A horse turning away from a client and facing the arena wall

A horse yawning or licking and chewing after a moment of stillness

A horse eating hay without any acknowledgment of the client

A horse approaching a client and gently nudging them

A horse pinning its ears and shifting its weight away

Question 5Knowledge Check

Which approach is most consistent with trauma-informed practice in an equine-assisted setting?

Moving quickly through exposures to build tolerance and resilience

Minimizing client choice to maintain consistent session structure

Offering gradual exposure, client agency, and predictable relational safety

Focusing primarily on cognitive reframing before engaging in arena work

Question 6Knowledge Check

Which of the following is an example of a somatic intervention appropriate for an EAP session?

Assigning a written reflection on the client's relationship to trust

Asking the client to notice where in their body they feel the horse's presence and breathe into that sensation

Reviewing the client's history of previous trauma diagnoses

Having the client verbally list five things they appreciate about horses

Question 7Knowledge Check

Which of the following best describes how horses naturally support the therapeutic process?

Horses provide structured behavioral challenges that help clients develop coping strategies

Horses are emotionally sensitive prey animals whose authentic, non-judgmental responses act as a mirror for the client's internal state

Horses primarily support clients through physical touch and rhythmic movement

Horses help clients by remaining still and calm regardless of what is happening in the session

Question 8Knowledge Check

Which ethical consideration is most important before beginning an EAP practice?

Ensuring the facility has more than five horses available for sessions

Obtaining additional training in horsemanship beyond what is required by licensure

Establishing clear informed consent that addresses the unique nature of equine-assisted work, dual roles, and horse welfare

Confirming that insurance companies reimburse for equine-assisted services

Question 9Reflection

Which statement best describes your current relationship to somatic or body-based approaches in your clinical work?

I rarely incorporate somatic awareness into sessions — this is new territory for me

I occasionally invite clients to notice body sensations but have not formalized this approach

Somatic awareness is already a regular part of how I work with clients

I am trained in a somatic modality (SE, Hakomi, EMDR, etc.) and integrate it consistently

Question 10Reflection

Which best describes your prior experience with equine-assisted work or animal-assisted therapy?

No prior experience — this training is my first exposure

I have read about it or attended a presentation, but have not participated directly

I have observed or participated in an EAP or AAT session as a client or guest

I have co-facilitated or facilitated EAP or AAT sessions professionally

Question 11Reflection

Which clinical population are you most hoping to serve using SHINE-informed EAP after this training?

Children and adolescents

Adults healing from trauma or attachment wounds

Individuals in recovery from addiction or eating disorders

Groups or populations I serve in a residential or IOP setting

Question 12Reflection

Which of the following best captures what drew you to this training?

I want to add a nature-based or experiential modality to my existing clinical practice

I am personally drawn to horses and want to integrate that into my professional work

My clinical supervisor or employer encouraged or required this training

I am building a new practice and want to specialize in equine-assisted psychotherapy

Question 13Open Response

In a few sentences, describe one question or edge you're bringing into this training — something you're curious about, uncertain of, or hoping to explore.

Confidence ScaleSelf-Assessment

Rate your current confidence for each competency.

Competency	1	2	3	4	5
Distinguishing EAP from other equine modalities
Reading equine behavioral cues clinically
Applying trauma-informed principles in an arena
Leading somatic grounding exercises
Designing a three-phase EAP session
Documenting EAP sessions to CAMFT standards

1 = No exposure3 = Some familiarity5 = Confident & applied

Pre-Training Assessment

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Thank you, and welcome.