The naturally healing environment of the farm brings a power all its own to people who are challenged by life. In a natural setting, equine facilitated therapeutic activities provide powerful tools for building self-awareness, self-esteem, appropriate boundaries and a sense of responsibility.

EFFT is a systems-focused, strength-based form of psychotherapy provided by Nikki Cohen-Wichner, LMFT (licensed Marriage & Family Therapist) with the assistance of her animal colleagues in the nature-based setting of the Interstate Horse Center.

It is provided by the synergistic team of the horse, mental health professional and a therapeutic riding instructor. Nikki often works alone with clients and the horse(s) since she is a NARHA Registered Level Therapeutic Riding Instructor.

Sessions take place around horses at a level appropriate to meet the client’s needs. Therapy may involve simply being in the horses’ presence, or can involve groundwork activities with the horse thru a range of mounted activities.

*EFP treatment may be an alternative or adjunct to therapy a client is doing with a more traditional therapist. Nikki welcomes the opportunity for adjunct sessions that may include the client, his or her current therapist and herself, working in a horse-assisted, nature-based session developed to meet individual treatment plan goals. This can be an excellent opportunity to “open up” areas in which you feel “stuck” while working in a more traditional therapy setting.

Some of the issues Nikki is comfortable working with:
• Trauma survival issues (including Vicarious Trauma)
• Compassion Fatigue
• Forgiveness Model of Therapy
• Parenting kids with special needs
• Relationship issues (personal/professional)
• Stress, depression and/or anxiety
• Sexual issues
• Foster and adoptive family issues
• Family reunification
• School problems (k-college)
• Co-Parenting after break-up

Some of the benefits of EFFT:
Allows you to feel more connected mind/body/spirit
Less stigma
Animals do not judge
Combines energy & bodywork & mindfulness