Eponicity's Equine Assisted Learning Mentorship

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 This equine facilitator mentorship program is designed for equine enthusiasts ready to take their horsemanship or coaching into a new realm. 

Its framework explores the profound connection between humans and horses, offering practical methods for implication into a new or established practice. 

Eponicity’s EAL (equine assisted learning program) facilitator certification’s unique, comprehensive curriculum incorporates components of the Eponaquest model of EAL, Transformational Presence coaching approaches, and original content.  

Course curriculum uses an archetypal model, incorporating concepts that offer a variety of applications for practice. Based on the stories in Pony’s Girl Parables, content can be adapted for all ages and levels of self-awareness.  

In addition to growing your skill set, this equine assisted learning program offers you an opportunity for personal growth. Old ways of being that are no longer effective tend to fall away, leaving space for a new way of being.

Each session is supported by science-based didactic information and creative concepts that we integrate into equine-supported exercises. You will be the client, the student, and the teacher for each equine assisted learning (EAL) exercise.  

Elements of the program:
· Workbook with course content (printed and digital version)
· Pony’s Girl Parables book and journal
· Small group learning experience
· Personal one-on-one support/coaching    
· Alumni community networking group
· Annual Alumni Gathering
· Equine hosting facility  
· Lunches and snacks Equine Certification program

Overview    

Week One (onsite 5 days)

Eponicity’s Values and Community Building Agreements

Horse safety

Archetype – Sensor®. 

The Sensor appreciates Earth as one whole, connected, living organism 

• HeartMath 
• Energy Field Exploration®  
• Meet the Herd*
• Horse Partnering®
• Horse supported body scan

Archetype – Processor®

The Processor understands emotions as a universal language and processes life’s experiences into wisdom

• Emotional Message Chart* 
• Body mapping of emotion
• Reflective Grooming*
• Using our Three Intelligences^

Archetype – Seer^. 

The Seer sees unconditionally, collecting information in all forms and dimensions.

• Developing intuition 
• Blind Folded Energy Fields®
• Slow Seer Walk®  
• Channels of Emotion®  

Archetype – Protector®

The Protector ensures a safe environment and uses power appropriately

• Powering Over vs. Powering With -The Zebra and The Lion®
• Setting boundaries - Ask-Tell-Promise®
• Energy management - Breathe In, Breathe Out®
• Survival styles  

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Week Two (live online 3 days)

Foundational Skills

• Ego and Soul Concept
• Energic body and physical body
• Establishing a mindfulness practice
• Authentic Self vs. Conditioned Self*
• Complex vs. complicated situations^
• Using Three Fundamental Questions^
• Coaching framework vs. teaching framework
• Practice coaching 

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Week Three (onsite 5 days)

Archetype – Co-Creator^. 

The Co-Creator aligns with their higher-self to step into the potential of what is possible. 

• Embodying the Goal* (one horse)
• Ego and Soul Embody the Goal® (two horses)
• Mandalas
• Chakra Body Scan®  

Archetype – Balancer. 

The Balancer makes decisions that maintain or restore equilibrium.  

• Moral Compass 
• Releasing and Forgiveness Ceremony®
• Obstacle Course

Archetype – Ambassador

Ambassadors incorporate the skills of the Seer, Balancer, Sensor, Co-Creator, Processor, and Protector to serve and advocate for the greatest good.

• Four stages of leadership^
• Leadership Through Relationship*
• Herd Dynamics*
• Herd Dynamic Dance® 
• Group forming/norming/storming
• Connected Round Pen*
• Reflective Round pen*

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Week Four (live online 3 days)

Professional Standards

• Scope of practice
• Standards of practice
• Business model and strategies
• Herd care and management  
• Win-Win vs. Shine-Shine®
• Creating a personal code of ethics® 
• Managing difficult conversations 
• Projection and transference in practice  
• Implications for various client demographics
• Planning for Week Five practice workshop

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Week Five (onsite 5 days)

• Practice the full workshop content with classmates
• Facilitate a 2-day workshop with real clients
• Graduation – Certification 
• Grace and Gratitude Ceremony 

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*Content from the Eponaquest model of equine-assisted learning (Linda Kohanov).

^Content from the Transformational Presence model of coaching (Alan Seale).

At this time, equine assisting learning facilitator training programs are an unregulated industry, making it essential that you invest your time in a sound program.   

A credible program offers the student the following elements:    

· An instructor with a solid foundation in horsemanship that includes riding, equine husbandry, and herd management   

· A course that is long enough to experience and process the elements, for the maximum benefit of your future clients    

· An instructor that can support/coach the student’s learning and processing of self-development as they come into a higher awareness of themselves   

· A curriculum based on proven, inspiring methods providing safe interaction between humans and horses   

· A curriculum that is engaging, adaptable, and relevant to a broad client base   

· An instructor who creates a safe space for students to evolve their practice   

· A program that provides follow-up support 

  · An instructor who has had at least 5 to 10 years of experience doing the work they are teaching    

 Deborah Draves Legg Bio 

    Eponicity, LLC Statement of Moral Code

Objective, Principles, and Standards of Practice Guidelines*

Objective

The Eponicity Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) framework is an interactive, innovative, experiential learning format that engages horses with humans. Coaching activities support the individual's emerging capacity for growth and self-awareness.  

The following guiding principles are not intended to be a legally binding agreement but rather a description of mutually accepted educational, behavioral, and professional objectives. 

No Guarantee – Any client of Eponicity, LLC acknowledges and agrees that Eponicity, LLC cannot guarantee the results or effectiveness of any of the services rendered or to be rendered. Best efforts will be used, but no results are promised.  

Principle 1: Competency

We shall represent ourselves only within the parameters of our experience, competence, and professional training and act accordingly. We will not work outside of our scope of practice. We will recognize when a client's needs go beyond our scope of practice and request assistance from our supervisor and/or other professionals for the benefit and safety of our clients and horses. 

Standard of Practice 1.1

We maintain competence in our work. We recognize and continually augment our contributions, gifts, and fields of study that inform our EAL work, and we acknowledge the boundaries and limitations of our knowledge and experience. We practice EAL only within these self-identified boundaries and limitations based on our level of education, training, and experience

Standard of Practice 1.2

We refer clients to appropriate professionals when we are unable to address or meet their needs and/or when an unresolved conflict has arisen in our work with them.

Standard of Practice 1.3

We pursue personal and professional development through further education, training, supervision, and practice, including continuing education provided by Eponicity, LLC. At all times, we maintain a level of introspection and an awareness of our process to create a deeper connection to our authentic selves that will translate into effective teaching.

Standard of Practice 1.4

When appropriate, we commit to seeking and receiving feedback from other Eponicity, LLC Instructors in the Eponicity, LLC community. We are responsible for giving feedback to our fellow Instructors if they appear to be failing to comply with these guidelines while also maintaining client confidentiality.

Standard of Practice 1.5

We seek professional assistance for our problems or conflicts, which may impair our professional judgments and endanger either the clients or the horses.

Principle 2: Confidentiality

We shall maintain confidentiality regarding clients' personal issues and information, including financial information.

Standard of Practice 2.1

A discussion of confidentiality must occur at the onset of the professional relationship between an Eponicity, LLC instructor and Client. We respect the right of clients to decide the extent to which confidential materials are shared. Therefore, we may not disclose client confidences except:

a.) When discussing client issues with our Eponicity, LLC approved supervisor or other appropriate professional or coach, who in turn must maintain confidentiality.

b.) As mandated by law.

c.) To prevent a clear and immediate danger.

d.) Where the Eponicity, LLC Instructor is a defendant in civil, criminal, or disciplinary action arising from EAL services and is required by law to provide otherwise confidential information.

e.) When there is a waiver/release previously obtained in writing from the Client, in which case such information may be revealed only in accordance with the terms of the waiver.

Standard of Practice 2.2

When consulting with an Eponicity, LLC colleague about a client, Instructors shall maintain client confidentiality by not disclosing any information that would identify the Client.

Principle 3: Safety 

We shall create a safe setting for clients and horses and ask clients to sign a written safety agreement.  

Standard of Practice 3.1

We ensure that all EAL activities are designed and conducted to respect and provide for the safety, dignity, and welfare of horses and clients.

Standard of Practice 3.2

Through our interview and/or application process, we make a concerted effort to determine that individuals applying to attend an EAL group possess the ability to participate in and benefit from the group experience and activities with horses.

Standard of Practice 3.3

In choosing instructional activities, we make every effort to ensure that the inherent level of emotional and physical challenge will be appropriate to the emotional agility, skill level, and well-being of the horses and clients involved.

Principle 4: Horses as Partners

We honor and respect our horses as our partners and co-facilitators in this work.

Standard of Practice 4.1

We regard the welfare of the horses entrusted to our care as paramount to the work of EAL. The horses' choice to engage in this work or with a particular client is honored, trusted, and supported, as is their health and care. We are open to constructive feedback on their care and well-being.

Principle 5: Welfare of the Clients

We are guided by our desire to co-create a new way of being and acting in the world with clients and horses and not solely by a desire for monetary gain.

Standard of Practice 5.1

We respect our clients' emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual autonomy. We listen to their sharing and provide a safe container for their processes to unfold. We integrate the Eponicity, LLC Values, and the Authentic Community Building Agreements (in the addendum) into our EAL practice. 

Standard of Practice 5.2

We respect the rights of individuals to privacy, confidentiality, and self-determination in making decisions. We support them in considering the consequences of their choices and empower them to chart a course for their lives by helping them differentiate between false/conditioned self-beliefs and the activation of the authentic self.

Principle 6: Conduct With Clients

We conduct ourselves responsibly with clients and are sensitive to the real and perceived difference in power between ourselves and our clients.

Standard of Practice 6.1

We understand that in practicing EAL, we are facilitating a process that elicits strong emotions and has the potential for activating projection, transference, and counter-transference, which need to be recognized, managed and honored with skill and integrity by Eponicity, LLC Instructors.

Standard of Practice 6.2

We commit to conduct that supports our ability to remain fully present in our work, including the time before and following facilitating sessions and programs with clients.

Standard of Practice 6.3

We agree not to use any mood-altering substances, including alcohol, except those prescribed by a physician, such as anti-depressants, while actively engaged with clients. Use of illegal substances or abuse of psychoactive substances with clients where Eponicity, LLC EAL is being practiced is cause for immediate suspension of Eponicity, LLC Instructor status.

Standard of Practice 6.4

Sexual intimacy with current clients is prohibited. We do not invite, respond to, or allow sexual contact with our clients or workshop participants.

Standard of Practice 6.5

Eponicity, LLC Instructors engaging in sexual intimacy with former clients bear the burden of proof that no exploitation exists.

Principle 7: Professional Conduct

We are honest, fair, and forthcoming in our professional relationships. We work to clarify our roles and obligations, accept responsibility for our behavior and decisions and adapt our methods to the needs of clients and horses.

Standard of Practice 7.1

We maintain an awareness of the effect that our belief systems, values, needs, and limitations may have on our EAL work.

Standard of Practice 7.2

We are aware of our influential position with respect to our clients and actively avoid exploiting their trust, skills, or inclination for dependency. Dual relationships (that is, a situation where the Instructor has a relationship with a client in addition to the Instructor/client relationship, such as: being members of the same organization or acquaintances in the same social circle) create particularly challenging conditions. In situations where such a relationship is unavoidable, clear and appropriate boundaries must be established to prevent misunderstandings or relationship confusion that could adversely affect the Client and/or the EAL work with them.

Standard of Practice 7.3

We are sensitive to and respectful of the fact that clients and horses have varying degrees of comfort with physical contact. Except when safety is a factor, clients and horses have the right to limit or refuse physical contact and to set appropriate boundaries with Eponicity, LLC Instructors, other clients, and other horses.

Standard of Practice 7.4

As Instructors, we understand that it is not advisable to have family members or close friends as clients in our workshops when non-family members or friends are participating.

Standard of Practice 7.5

Instructors recognize that a qualified co-facilitator or assistant is valuable and encouraged when working with a group.

Standard of Practice 7.6

We provide referrals or references to clients who, in our judgment, would benefit from support for possible mental health issues or equestrian challenges.

Standard of Practice 7.7

We consult with, refer to and cooperate with other professionals to the full extent necessary to serve the best interests of horses and clients.

Standard of Practice 7.8

We seek to obtain appropriate releases of information from clients to minimize the risk of confusion and conflict.  

Standard of Practice 7.9

Because of our ability to influence the lives of others and affect the field of EAL, we exercise special care when offering our professional recommendations and opinions.

Standard of Practice 7.10

We ensure that all our staff, volunteers, and/or assistants involved in EAL programs or trainings are adequately trained to perform their tasks competently. They are aware of and knowledgeable about the Eponicity, LLC Best Practice Guidelines for Instructors of the Eponicity, LLC. 

Standard of Practice 7.11

All actively practicing Eponicity, LLC Instructors are advised for their protection to be covered by liability insurance for their practice of EAL.

Principle 8: Eponicity, LLC Instructor Community Relations

We commit to modeling the Eponicity, LLC principles by acting in cooperative, mutually supportive, and emotionally/socially agile ways with other Eponicity, LLC Instructors, staff, employees, and faculty. We exercise Eponicity, LLC based relationship skills and use appropriate Eponicity, LLC tools and procedures should interpersonal conflicts arise.

Standard of Practice 8.1

As part of our intention to convey the wisdom that horses are bringing for social change in the world, we recognize that we must raise our own personal and professional standards as ambassadors of this new way of relating and leading. We, therefore, commit to developing and abiding by the following qualities and skills 

a) Competence with The Authentic Community Building Agreements.

b) Sensitivity toward other people's vulnerabilities and never using their vulnerabilities against them.  

c) A willingness to assume responsibility for our actions and for making changes as appropriate.

d) The ability to stay present and thoughtful during difficult situations.

Standard of Practice 8.2

We shall make every effort to address directly with the parties, and in a timely fashion, any issues, concerns, or disagreements we have with other Eponicity, LLC Instructors, staff, employees, or faculty members involved in a good-faith process that includes the following aspects:

a) The issues and concerns involved should never be shared with clients or uninvolved Eponicity, LLC Instructors. Violating this standard is grounds for a complaint and will be registered with Eponicity, LLC.

b) To prepare for that conversation, the Instructor may seek confidential support, advice, counsel, and coaching from one trusted, knowledgeable, and practicing Eponicity, LLC colleague, Eponicity, LLC approved supervisor, or a professional coach or counselor. The person consulted must agree to maintain confidentiality regarding the people and issues involved.

c) When sufficiently prepared, the Instructor will directly address the issues, concerns, or disagreement with the party in question.

Principle 9: Business Relations

We shall maintain clear and honest business practices with clients, employees, other instructors, and the public, including making clear agreements regarding appointments, workshop times and fees for clients, clear employment policies and practices regarding hours, responsibilities, benefits and compensation, and explicit and accurate information regarding program ownership and marketing practices.

Standard of Practice 9.1

We make accurate statements to clients regarding our qualifications, training, services, products, and fees, and we charge appropriate fees, which are disclosed prior to the commencement of services.

Standard of Practice 9.2

We require clients to sign a release and waiver of indemnification/hold harmless form before they may participate in any Eponicity, LLC program that an Instructor is conducting.  

Standard of Practice 9.3

Clients must be well informed of the confidentiality, outcomes, risks, and mutual responsibilities associated with EAL services and activities prior to their participation. For clients engaged in EAL work with an Instructor beyond a workshop or intensive, we encourage that the above information is provided in writing. (liability form in the addendum)

Standard of Practice 9.4

To the extent that sources other than those authored or created as original by the Instructor – such as but not limited to, written, photographic, artistic, graphic materials, and/or intellectual concepts — are borrowed, referenced, quoted, and/or cited in the Instructor's workshop, promotional, and/or published materials, said sources are to be explicitly acknowledged.

Standard of Practice 9.5

We will honor the trademark, logo, website, and other program identification rights of other Eponicity, LLC Instructors by gaining written permission for their use in marketing or promotional materials when requested.

Standard of Practice 9.6

We recognize that occasional pro bono contributions of our time and expertise can support the greater good of our community and promote awareness of the benefits of EAL.

Principle 10: Best Practice

Eponicity, LLC Commitment to the Best Practice Guidelines for Instructors of the Eponicity, LLC approach to Equine Assisted Learning

We shall respond immediately and respectfully to any complaints or concerns brought to our attention by Eponicity, LLC by workshop participants, individual clients, the public, and/or by Eponicity, LLC Instructors, or the program director.

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Eponicity Approaches

Valuing Congruency over conformity.

Valuing Authenticity over perfection.

Valuing Adaptability and Inquisitiveness over methodology

Authentic Community Building Agreements

1. Maintain confidentiality.

2. Speak from the heart.

3. Contribute to the "safe container" by listening from the heart.

4. If you notice yourself rehearsing what you're going to say, come back to the present.

5. Support others in their vulnerability. 

6. Use emotion as information, communicating the information behind the emotion.

7. Practice sitting in uncomfortable emotions without panicking.

8. Pay attention to the dynamics of shared emotion and encourage emotional resonance and empathy.

9. Focus on the present. Try to discern which emotions belong to the current situation and which ones come from the past (projection and transference). 

10.Resist the temptation to "fix" people, horses, and uncomfortable situations.

11.Consider what communication might be behind perceived "misbehavior."

12.Be sensitive, flexible, and responsive to personal space and boundaries, yours and those of others - people and horses. 

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*Based on the Eponaquest guidelines