A NEWLY formed charity that uses horses to transform lives by delivering ‘powerful’ therapy has opened its doors near Bicester.

Rather than talking face-to-face with a counsellor, Equilore provides one-to-one and group Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy.

Psychologist Dr Loes Koorenhof founded the organisation in Launton and uses her four horses to work with people who are struggling with their mental health to build trust, self-esteem and confidence.

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Equine therapy is where clients work with horses to reflect on and change negative behaviour.

Because the interaction with the horses is non-verbal, they only react to body language.

Operating on a self-employed basis for the previous few years, Dr Koorenhof has seen some ‘amazing results’.

Oxford Mail:

The psychologist, who has a PhD in clinical neuroscience, said: “When I started this work, I always wanted it to be available to those who need it, not just those who can afford it.

“Although equine therapy can be more expensive, because of the upkeep of the horse, what spurs me on is that we have already had some amazing results with children and adults.

“For some clients, talking therapies have often been ineffective but working with the horses has literally changed their lives.”

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In order for this therapy and support to be accessible to more people, the psychologist has now decided to register Equilore as a charity.

The charity status will enable her to secure funding to subsidise therapy costs, meaning some of those who are struggling the most will be better able to afford and access the charity’s services.

Dr Koorenhof said she was able to work to each individual’s needs, designing specific activities and interaction with the horses to develop key skills or overcome crippling anxieties.

Oxford Mail:

Her horses have worked with The Hummingbird Centre in Bicester for the past few years, supporting people diagnosed with cancer.

Hummingbird founder Mechelle Harris said: “The works she’s done with our guests (and children) has been amazing especially those who have gone through a bereavement.

“Having seen the results and experienced it myself, albeit for only a few hours, I was taken aback how powerful working with the horses was.”