Eagala stands for equine assisted growth and learning association. Its and organization developed to address the needs for resources in the EAP (equine assisted psychotherapy) and EAL (equine assisted learning) felids.
Eagala’s goal is to develop fields that accept the Eap/Eal as a valid and effective alternative to usual therapy methods.
This would greatly benefit those in the equine industry by opening up greater possibilities for doing what they enjoy, working with horses. In the clinical and human developmental fields it provides a powerful, effective, interesting, fun, therapeutic and educational alternative to the traditional talk therapy programs.
The best part of all is the first hand knowledge of knowing that programs like these work. Growth and Learning is just that, growing and learning about yourself. It is a very intense and rewarding experience.

I'm still not sure what EAP is.

Equine assisted psychotherapy uses equines experientially for emotional growth and learning. As a working team of a licensed therapist and a horse specialist the clients and horses, work together addressing the treatment goals. Because of the intensity and effectiveness, it's considered a short term, or "brief" approach.
EAP is experiential in nature, meaning that participants learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses, then processing or discussing feelings, behaviors and patterns.
This approach has been compared to the ropes courses used by therapists, treatment facilities and human development courses around the world.
The advantage of EAP is utilizing horses, dynamic and powerful thinking, living creatures.
In order for a program to be considered "EAP" there must be one licensed clinical professional involved. The focus of EAP is not riding or horsemanship, it's more of setting up ground activities involving the horses, and will require the client or group to apply certain skills. Non-verbal communication, assertiveness, creative thinking, problem solving, leadership, taking responsibility, teamwork, relationship, confidence and attitude are several tools utilized and developed during EAP sessions.
EAP sessions can be very powerful and effective. They have a tremendous therapeutic approach and an incredible impact on individuals, youth, families & groups. EAP addresses many mental health needs and human development needs including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, abuse issues, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs.

WHAT MAKES HORSES GOOD FOR EAP WORK?

Anyone that has worked with a horse recognizes and understands the power they have to influence people in incredible ways. From developing a relationship, training, horsemanship instruction to simply caring for the horse. It will impact your life and naturally affect anyone involved in a positive manner. Owning horses teach us the benefits of work ethic, responsibility, assertiveness, communication and healthy relationships. It's long been recognized that horses provide these benefits.

Horses are large and powerful, which creates a natural opportunity for some to overcome fear and develop confidence. The size and power of the horse are naturally intimidating to many people. Accomplishing a task involving the horse, in spite of those fears, creates confidence and provides for wonderful metaphors when dealing with other intimidating and challenging situations in life.

Horses are very much like humans in that they are social animals. They have defined roles within their herds. They would rather be with their peers. They have distinct personalities, attitudes, and moods. An approach that seems to work with one horse, does not necessarily work with another. At times, they seem stubborn and defiant. They like to have fun. In other words, horses provide vast opportunities for metaphorical learning. Using metaphors, in discussion or activity, is an effective technique when working with even the most challenging individuals or groups.

Horses require work, whether in caring for them or working with them. In an era when immediate gratification and the "easy way" are the norm, horses require people to be engaged in physical and mental work to be successful, a valuable characteristic in all aspects of life.

Most importantly, horses have the ability to mirror exactly what human body language is telling them. Many people will complain, "The horse is stubborn. The horse doesn’t like me," etc. But the lesson to be learned is that if they change themselves, the horses respond differently. Horses are honest, which makes them especially powerful messengers.
With the rise of many new approaches to modern medicine,  EAP is now an exciting new field that can be included into any mental health or equine professionals program.