Psychological trauma is a type of defense the mind implements in reaction to a severely distressing single event or an ongoing series of events.

Overwhelming stress that exceeds one's
ability to cope may not be processed by our brain in the way a typical event might be. The brain may bury the experience in the recesses of the mind in an attempt to avoid its extreme emotional power. But traumatic events have a way of coming back. They are never completely out of mind. Unresolved, they may cause flashbacks, depression, anger and sometimes even suicide.

Emerging scientific evidence shows that the brain is pliable and can be retrained. Traumatic events may be brought forward into the present where they can be processed anew—this time in a safe, supportive environment where their power is diminished. Controlled interaction with horses can help to create just such a healing environment.