In addition to the quarterly on site six-day training sessions, apprentices will have four (4) hours of individual counseling with and consultation with Linda throughout the year. We do not expect apprentices to be able to handle the intensity of this work without their own issues surfacing from time to time. However, in order to consistently maintain the safety needed for clients and horses, apprentices must be able to quickly identify their triggers and the behavior patterns that follow.
One of Epona’s principles is identifying and differentiating between congruent vs. incongruent feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. For instance, as individuals, we have good and bad days, outside stresses, and unexpected circumstances that contribute to fluctuations in wellness and awareness. When it comes to mirroring hidden emotions, horses do not distinguish between the client and the facilitator. Thus, apprentices must also learn how to process the incongruities these animals bring up that occasionally pertain to the apprentice facilitating the session. This is an opportunity for the apprentice to model, in the client's presence, how to process the information.
There is a fine line between being "real" and being professional. Apprentices will not make mistakes as long as they maintain integrity and consistency with their word and are willing to take feedback from other facilitators and clients. Apprentices need to learn how to ask for support from other facilitators and staff.
Find out more about the program:
- Overview
- Prerequisites
- The Selection Process
- Personal Commitment
- Equine Components
- Mental Health Components
For more information contact booking@theeponacenter.com or 520-455-5908.