About the Author

Leigh Shambo, MSW, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, describes a model for incorporating Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) as an adjunct therapy for adult and youth clients in individual or group therapy formats. Internationally recognized as a pioneer in the use of this animal-assisted therapy, Shambo is the lead author for HEAL-sponsored research on the efficacy of equine therapy for survivors of complex trauma. Shambo founded Human-Equine Alliances for Learning (HEAL), a non-profit 501c(3) in 2000, which supports EFP research and provides equitable access to Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy. In addition to her ranch-based practice, Shambo is frequently invited to teach workshops and seminars on Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy in the US and abroad.