we use evidence-based practice (EPB) in our approach

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​Eagala (Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association) is a leading international nonprofit organization that sets the standard for equine-assisted psychotherapy and learning. Founded in 1999, Eagala has trained nearly 14,000 professionals across 50 countries, fostering a collaborative approach that includes licensed mental health professionals, certified equine specialists, and horses working together in therapeutic settings. This ground-based model emphasizes experiential learning, where clients engage in activities with horses to gain insights and develop solutions to personal challenges.

Research supports the efficacy of the Eagala Model in addressing various mental health issues. A randomized controlled trial demonstrated that adolescents participating in equine-assisted psychotherapy experienced significant reductions in trauma symptoms, with improvements sustained at a 10-week follow-up. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has recognized the benefits of this approach, providing funding to Eagala Military Services to offer equine-assisted mental health services to veterans and service members, further validating its effectiveness in treating trauma-related conditions. 

Sources:

Eagala. (n.d.). About us. https://www.eagala.org/about-us/

DePugh, K. M. (2023). Equine-assisted psychotherapy and trauma symptoms in adolescents: A randomized controlled trial (Publication No. AAI27545495) [Doctoral dissertation, Pace University]. ProQuest Dissertations Publishing. https://digitalcommons.pace.edu/dissertations/AAI27545495/

PR Newswire. (2019, November 13). Veterans Administration provides $637,700 for equine-assisted mental health services to veterans and service members through Eagala Military Services designated programs across the United States. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/veterans-administration-provides-637-700-for-equine-assisted-mental-health-services-to-veterans-and-service-members-through-eagala-military-services-designated-programs-across-the-united-states-300951579.html

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based behavioral intervention developed for young children (typically ages 2–7) with disruptive behavior disorders. Rooted in attachment theory and social learning theory, PCIT focuses on improving the quality of the parent-child relationship and changing parent-child interaction patterns. The treatment is divided into two phases: Child-Directed Interaction (CDI), which emphasizes nurturing and positive communication, and Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI), which teaches effective discipline and behavior management strategies.

Research has consistently shown that PCIT leads to significant improvements in child behavior, parenting skills, and parent stress. Studies also support its effectiveness across diverse populations, including families involved in child welfare, children with autism spectrum disorder, and those exposed to trauma. PCIT has demonstrated long-term benefits, and adaptations have been made for telehealth, group formats, and cultural responsiveness, expanding its reach and accessibility.

Clinical evidence supporting Polyvagal Theory comes from a growing body of research linking autonomic nervous system functioning—particularly vagal tone and heart rate variability (HRV)—to emotional regulation, trauma responses, and social behavior. Studies have shown that individuals with higher vagal tone (associated with the ventral vagal system) demonstrate better emotional regulation, greater resilience to stress, and more adaptive social engagement. In trauma-focused therapy, clients often exhibit signs of dorsal vagal shutdown (e.g., dissociation, numbness) or sympathetic arousal (e.g., hypervigilance), aligning with the theory’s model of hierarchical nervous system responses. Interventions like therapies that emphasize co-regulation (e.g., EMDR, sensorimotor psychotherapy) have shown effectiveness in part because they work to restore autonomic balance and support ventral vagal activation. Additionally, real-time biofeedback using HRV has been used to help individuals monitor and regulate their physiological state, further validating the connection between autonomic functioning and mental health outcomes.

EMDR is a trauma-focused psychotherapy that has been extensively validated through clinical research. It involves recalling distressing memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements), which is thought to facilitate the brain’s natural processing of traumatic material. Numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have shown EMDR to be highly effective in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), often with faster results than traditional talk therapies. EMDR is recognized as an evidence-based treatment by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the American Psychological Association (APA), and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Research also supports its use with diverse populations, including children, survivors of complex trauma, and individuals with comorbid conditions like anxiety and depression.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a highly effective, evidence-based treatment designed for children and adolescents who have experienced trauma, including abuse, neglect, violence, or loss. It integrates trauma-sensitive interventions with cognitive-behavioral techniques to help young clients process traumatic memories, develop coping skills, and reduce symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. TF-CBT also involves active participation from caregivers, which enhances family communication, support, and overall outcomes. Clinical research has consistently demonstrated the efficacy of TF-CBT across diverse populations and settings, showing significant improvements in trauma-related symptoms and emotional regulation. Its structured yet flexible approach makes it a widely adopted and trusted model in mental health practice, particularly for youth impacted by complex trauma.

PREPARE/ENRICH is considered an evidence-based practice because its development and application are grounded in decades of empirical research on relationship dynamics, and its effectiveness has been demonstrated through numerous peer-reviewed studies. The program uses validated assessment tools that reliably measure key areas of couple functioning, such as communication, conflict resolution, intimacy, and shared values. Research has shown that couples who engage in PREPARE/ENRICH experience statistically significant improvements in relationship satisfaction, understanding, and cohesion. Additionally, the program’s structure allows for personalized feedback and skill-building that align with best practices in couple therapy. Its widespread use by trained professionals and consistent positive outcomes across diverse populations further support its classification as evidence-based.