Spirit of the Phoenix Course

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Our four day course is tailored for those who are new to this area of work and established practitioners, gaining further understanding and knowledge of using the horse environment in therapeutic manor. We also offer this course for professionals who are already working in the additional needs sector.

"This workshop was inspirational and informative. It exceeded expectations both personally and professionally. Naomi is both knowledgeable and skilful and I am excited to continue my journey in this area"

Are you looking to gain more knowledge and understanding of Equine Assisted Interactions?

Perhaps you already have an understanding and are looking for ideas and inspiration to increase your knowledge base.

The course provides an introduction into the world of Equine Assisted Therapy and Learning

It provides a platform to build on and refine your own skills

By completing this course you will have an introduction into the world of Equine Assisted Therapy and Learning, or whether you are already a professional and are looking to diversify and explore other methods of therapeutic interactions/ interventions, this course is for you.

You will have an introduction into how to format and facilitate a session.

It is an opportunity for you to gain hands on experience and continue your professional development.

"A great opportunity to learn from a working therapist in a supportive and informal environment."

Day 1-Equine Assisted Therapy

This explores the area of Equine Assisted Therapy; using the horse environment to work with people and their emotional development. Throughout the course, you will learn the foundations and gain the tools required so that you can further your knowledge in this field and develop your skill set.

"What a wonderful, informative day- Naomi encapsulates what it is to work with horses in therapy

Day 1 - AM

The first part is an introduction to explore how the horse environment and interactions inner emotional wellbeing. We discuss how to rebuild ourselves, rediscover our emotional cues and relearn our resiliency. You will learn about the Emotional Scale, how we practice and see for yourself with a new understanding of self care. This day is about making sure you are prepared for this style of work looking at areas such as what is Equine Assisted Therapy, Drama to Dreams, Symptoms vs Cause, Preparing for sessions, session safety, developing your willingness to help others to be a balanced perspective.

Day 1- PM

You will then spend the afternoon having a first hand experience of receiving the unique process of Let go, Love & Dream with our horses, facilitated by Naomi, with discussion in between each participant of observations, interactions and sensations.

"I would recommend this workshop to anyone who is interested in finding out more about how horses can be used therapeutically, it really opens your mind to the possibilities"

Day 2- AM

Building on the first day, we will look more closely at what is required to create a space for inner exploration. We will explore which questions to ask the individual, as well as learn how to read and respect a horse's response whilst in a session. You will learn how to prepare the environment and yourself for being part of the environment. The topics that will be explored includes areas such as: our clients physical wellbeing and mental wellbeing, challenges you may face in this area of work and how to be prepared for them, the power of self-image, fear of failure, start to explore business concepts finance, audience, elevator pitch. Then you will receive your 10 hour practice log sheet.

Day 2-PM

The afternoon will be spend outside completing practical applications of the theory learnt in the morning. completing goal setting, altering perception of the past, slow movements and what it releases. You will complete these activities in pairs or three's as you start to dip your toe in facilitating a prepared structured activity.

"Naomi's sessions are inspirational! She shares her experiences which helps cement the learning. She makes the work come alive and I feel privileged to have been able to attend her workshops."

DAy 3 - Equine Assisted Learning

Exploring the concept of Equine Assisted Learning, this segment of the course focuses on working with an individual who may need help to improve their confidence, self esteem or independence. It is an opportunity to see how the horse environment can help to teach an individual to love to learn again. To improve their quality of life by acquiring new skills and reconnect with their resilience.

"It was a fantastic experience that has opened my eyes to how horses can assist with learning and what an impact it can make on a person's life."

Day 3- AM

This will teach you what the individual can learn from the horse as well as about the horse during a session. We will look at the advantages of using the horse environment for learning and how you can carry out curriculum based activities, personal care, self respect, respect for others and for personal growth and well being. In this theory session we will explore a variety of activities ideas, the power of soak time and being playful with information.

"I had a great morning learning about equine assisted learning and horsemanship, Naomi broke our time down into explaining the theory and mental aspects of the service as well as demonstrating and learning practically. A very interesting time and inspired me to learn more"

Day 3- PM

We will be then heading outside for the practical segment of this day where we will be completing a basic level of horsemanship movements from circling a horse, to making sure a horse is safe to work with, approaching a horse and haltering, weaving work and communication. We will also look at other activities related to the human with the assistance of the horses on topics such as feedback, non-verbal cues and how we communicate with words.

Day 4- AM

A step on from day 1, we go deeper into this area by looking at how to analyse an activity so that you can identify and succeed in the outcome you are looking to achieve. We will be exploring further what it means to create an environment which truly enhances learning. You will develop your skills and understand what is required to create a successful Equine Assisted Learning session. In this theory session we will explore topics like: activity analysis, sensory needs, 3 learning styles, child development, the difference between ridden and liberty work. You will also receive your 10 hour log sheet for your practice sessions.

Day 4- PM

During this practical session we will be participating in creating an emotional fire drill, season wheel, coke bottle effect, Horsemanship A,B,C's and then you will work in small group taking it in turns facilitating your own session with the support of the other participants to integrate what you have learnt over the past 4 days. This is a great time where Naomi can answer questions/ support as you play and be curious with the new information and build your confidence in structuring your own activities.

"An amazing emotional and thoughtful day. I have been truly inspired to continue my pursuit of helping disenchanted children learn and heal through horses. Thank you very much Naomi."

Each course participant will receive the following -

A small group of no more than 8 participants

An opportunity to put the theory learned in the classroom into practice with scheduled time in the field with the horses exploring the possibilities and demonstrating their capabilities as your co-worker.

A detailed workbook including all of the content.

A private Facebook group monitored by Naomi, who will be there to answer any of your questions.

The chance to question Naomi in all areas of her work and benefit from her continued support and mentor-ship throughout.

A relaxed, open yet confidential environment free from judgement, where you can air your views and discuss anything personally or professionally.

A certificate

Endless cups of tea!

"Absolutely loved today. The learning, knowledge and experience of being part of the group was so rewarding. I will no doubt continue to process and gain insight from today in the weeks ahead."

Check out the centres that have formed after attending the courses

Here's what others had to say

'This experience with Naomi and her four legged friends (hooves and paws) has been one of my best. I have gained so much, including friends for life. I felt safe to develop and learn'

'Naomi is a fantastic, inspiring teacher . . . giving support on a very practical, real level as well as empowering you in your heart and spiritual mission. I feel I have found the missing piece of the puzzle, Thank you'

'Thank you Naomi for all at your insight and knowledge. This course has helped me to feel confident to move past block and into a space where I can reach my goals/ dreams'

'This course is brilliant & transformative'

'Naomi is incredibly knowledgeable., a great teacher and her passion inspires you to be better in both work and personal life'

'Naomi is extremely allowing. A very passionate, dedicated and loving human being. She makes everything fell possible. A fabulous learning environment, she is one of life's special humans'

Naomi is inspirational in recognising a persons persona and difficulties and being able to unlock/ unblock the walls/ difficulties'

'Confidence boosting and educational'

'Would 100% recommend, couldn't ask for a better environment and people to learn in & around!'

'An absolutely fantastic course. Naomi is so knowledgeable & experienced, her passion is infectious. Seeing her work her horses and patch is inspirational. She is extremely assertive, intuitive, generous with her time and expertise. Fantastic handouts/ resources. I cant recommend highly enough.

'Excellent course thoroughly recommend it to anyone. Naomi is so passionate, enthusiastic and honest, felt like a great support network in Naomi and other attendees. Thank you'

'This course gives you a toolkit to work in the field of EAT & EAL. It is supportive and practical, I would highly recommend it!'

'Fantastic course well worth attending, and you will learn a wealth of information and knowledge'

'A very well balanced view point to support children in a new non-invasive manor'

'I am very excited to take what I have learnt and help the young people in our care. It feels like it is making therapy fun.'

'I really enjoyed the course Naomi gave me further insight, knowledge and skills to make me feel that I can do this! Truly inspirational experience'

'I would recommend everyone to partake in this course to help in personal and professional parts of your life'

'I found the course very well presented and the whole experience amazing'

'Informative, balanced, well conducted course that has given me the seeds and tools to move forward with the theory and practice learnt in a safe, enjoyable and patient way'

'I have thoroughly enjoyed the course. It has been inspirational and truly life changing. I will carry the new tools with me and create an exceptional life and business."

"I feel ready to hold my first client session, and feel I am supplied with enough tools to hold that session in a positive, beneficial and professional way. I am very much looking forward to doing it. Thank you for giving me the experience and confidence."

"Having been on many training courses over my professional life I can honestly say this has been the very best. I have been taught the skills I need to begin to practise EFL, but more than this, this has been the very best personal development course I've ever attended!"

"Naomi one of the best training facilities I have experienced, this has been invaluable learning that has extended my knowledge and practice"

"This has been the most enjoyable course I have ever attended. I felt safe to be honest and open and make mistakes. Naomi gave me the confidence to explore my style and areas to work on"

"Thanks for an inspiring 4 days Naomi- I feel energised and excited about stepping out and following my dreams! Such a great group of like minded souls- thank you all!"

'Enlightening. I arrived not knowing what I was coming to and left with a box of tools ready to start my journey as a practitioner and my own self enlightenment'

"First class course, run professionally. Horses are excellent in their role. Can't recommend the course highly enough - THANK YOU."

Also Available

Do you want a course to be held at your facilities?

There is now the option of hosting a course at your yard. This is where Naomi will come to you to run one of Spirit of the Phoenix's Equine Assisted Therapy or Learning course. We are so excited to now be able to offer this service as we travel all around the country from the top of Scotland down to the tip of Cornwall.

It will be the same structure for the 4 days as written above.

We provide the work booklets, certificates, consent and feedback forms. If you are able to provide the participants, facilities and horses.

We have hosted courses at different places for instance Bishop Burton College, Spirit & Soul CIC, Stable Life and many more.

Contact Us for more information about hosting a course

Name

Phone

Which package are you interested in?

4 days

Any additional information

Learn More

Continuing Professional Development Day

For those who have completed the courses, they will be invited to join us on our CPD day. This gives us a chance to connect, share ideas, plan and development and bring new perspectives to this area of work. This is a great day, of connecting with like minded people who have become part of our phoenix family.

Here are their thoughts about the day:

'I am more confident in pushing my therapy business forward, much more knowledge from the other participants too'

'Very wide ranging training, taking into account variety of perspectives or influences, highly recommend'

'Always lovely to do extra training, I go home with new information and lots of new things to do'

'A thoroughly enjoyable day with like minded people, sharing experiences and gaining more knowledge'

'Naomi has such a wealth of experience that she wants to share for the benefit of the industry, thank you'

'I have loved coming back to Spirit of the Phoenix! Its been wonderful to top up on new knowledge and ideas as well making new connections + reconnecting with past course attendees'

'The training has enhanced my professional practice, Naomi is very encouraging & supportive with a vast amount of knowledge + professionalism, thank you so much'

As if what you have read wasn't enough, here are some more reasons to book on the

4 day course

'I not only gained knowledge and materials to apply to my work but I have opened a door to finding myself'

'Naomi, Buzz, Edith & Scrumpy were amazing. A truly inspirational 4 days, when is the next one'

'Wow what an amazing four days, not only have I learnt lots of new knowledge and skills. I've learnt a lot about myself, what a journey!'

'Lovely group of people, excellent tutor, its given me a sense of excitement to take the next steps'

'I felt supported and guided throughout, really pleased to have attended'

'An incredibly ran course with all the knowledge we need to kick start something special'

'Naomi is so knowledgeable! I really enjoyed the course and wish it was longer! I feel like I have the tools to be able to move forward'

'Thank you Naomi for an empowering and insightful way to use the horses to help people emotionally and physically achieve life tasks and lessons'

'I've had the best time Naomi's knowledge and understanding, including her sense of humour is second to none thank you'

'This course was life changing in so many ways and I cannot thank you and the horses enough'

'Naomi is an extraordinary translater of how the bringing of the truth home to yourself can instantly transform your life and teaches these skills beautifully'

'Naomi is the most knowledgeable person I've ever met in multiple fields- wow!, she fills me with confidence and just knows how to enable me to fix it.'

'What an outstanding course Naomi! Very well put together and delivered. So informative and interesting. It was a joy to attend'

'Beautiful, magical, yet grounding and grounded training. Somatic changes happened that I feel would be significant in moving forward in my business. I feel well-equiped to start experiementing with friends and family first then clients'

'The 4 days with Naomi were informative, fun and helped build a solid foundation of both subjects. Naomi is clearly experienced and has an amazing level of knowledge and expertise and is so open in terms of sharing these'

'I want to say thank you for organising this course. This has been life changing for me, opened up new doors and made me see what I truly need to do'

'Naomi is highly knowledgeable and capable clinician within this field'

'A really enjoyable and informative course. Thank you Naomi & Buzz Lightyear'

'I had the best experience and loved all 4 days. I cannot recommend doing the course enough even if it is for self awareness or for the support and encouragement to venture out on your own'

'Endorsed by Italians and British psychiatrists! Alternatively: I explored worldwide options on training and am completely confident I chose correctly'

'very informative, friendly and supportive a great course that has enabled me to grow as a person and the freedom to follow my dreams'

'Awesome 2 days love the ponies, Naomi is amazing and so supportive'

'I have had the most amazing wonderful experience of learning and meeting like minded people as myself. The encouragement to start my own business. The information was easy to understand and follow and what a wonderful tutor'

'Naomi is a wealth of information and knowledge on EAL & EAT + life in general. She has so much to offer and I would highly recommend this course!'

'I have had the most amazing four days! fantastic horses, facilitators and people!'

'This is the course for you if you want to make dreams come true!'

'I cant recommend this course enough for anyone who wants or needs to understand more about the subject'

'The course was well prepared and presented in an engaging way, it was a joy to attend'

'An extremely enlightening course all the honesty and compassion was brilliant'

'The equine assisted learning course has given me a wealth of skills and knowledge'

'Fantastic course with lots of new incentive's and life skills. Fantastic tutor and so energising + inspiring.'

' A weekend can restore faith, confidence and re-evaluate life. As one door closes another door opens. its reaffirmed in the positive, self, therapeutic environment'

"A Lovely couple of days with some nice people of learning and self reflection and finding things out about myself. Naomi makes it a very relaxed and comfortable atmosphere"

'I have grown so much not only as a professional, but as a person too. I've found myself and myself worth, and empowered to help my young people to do the same'

'I've really enjoyed training, it's empowered me not only as a person but as a worker'

'Very interesting and informative course, very well planned and very welcoming'

'Therapy based on huge respect and care for both people and horses'

"An enjoyable, rewarding & enlightening experience that will stay with me"

"Totally not what I expected but great opportunity for some really in depth personal learning and inner change. Very useful, collaborative and accepting environment to learn in"

'Very interesting, enjoyed increasing my knowledge and understanding there is a lot more to riding horses Naomi is a very friendly, fun and caring teacher''

'Both EAT & EAL are amazing. Thank you so much. I cant wait to get home and start'

'A huge learning curve about human emotions and how the horses read our intentions/ thoughts'

'This workshop/ course has give me new inspiration and the motivation as well as new skills to take my work in a new direction'

'4 days of practical hands on training. Relaxed fun and knowledgeable'

'Bit of a voyage of self discovery of seeing how powerful a horse is in reading our emotions'

'Coming on the course to help others and heling yourself along the way whilst building bonds and relationships with horses and people was eye opening, thank you'

'Brilliant course, would recommend, thank you'

'This training has been life changing, inspiring and magical, fantastic!'

'A course that allows an individual to grow and develop in a safe environment and experience profound and lasting change'

'Absolutely amazing 4 days spent learning about myself and where I want to be. Naomi is a fantastic tutor explaining everything in easy to learn terms'

'Interesting and informative, an emotional discovery'

'Attending this weekend gave me a clear insight to E.A.L and how to move forward with my own dream, Thank You Naomi'

'Another amazing weekend! Learning not only about E.A.L but a snap shot into my personal journey, where I am and where I am heading. It truly is the best environment not only to explore E.A.L but to learn about yourself'

'Great learning, good fun and I now have the confidence to facilitate my own session'

'A feeling of excitement that change can happen in a simple stepped approach and its ok to make mistakes as they are life lessons, I leave the weekend knowing there is a new way forward that is so simple and effective'

'Absolutely excellent weekend. Incredibly informative Naomi is a fantastic teacher. I have learned a lot about myself which will help me on my journey, Thank You'

'I would totally recommend training with Spirit of the Phoenix. Naomi waspatient, consistent and got to the point'

'A very professionally delivered course, which is both informative and elightening. Allows your confidence to grow in practice and methodology'

'Naomi is a fantastic teacher, with contagious passion. Wonderful experience, eye opening, basically I loved it!'

"Thank you so much for allowing me to dream and begin a new journey of discovery"

"There is plenty of fresh air, majestic creatures around you and information to make changes if you so wish to, Brilliant!"

"The workshop was educational and insightful. It was a very enjoyable day and i would like to attend other sessions. Thank you"

"The experience is subtle, peaceful and strong."

"Such a privilege to learn from Naomi's continued journey and wisdom - thank you as always"

"Stepping stones on my journey to achieve my dream"

"A calming and relaxing experience where you can be at one with a horse"

'Helped me look within myself for the answers that I needed'

"This overwhelming feelings I'm left with is how can we share this with more people and scale its impact"

"Once again Naomi blew us all away with her insights. Red and Mac were perfect mirrors and as always showed us all how to take steps into reaching our dreams"

"I now believe that this type of therapy can be extremely rewarding, I wasn't sure at first but the relationship between Naomi and her horses makes for a comfortable environment"

"A good and interesting workshop"

"It amazed me how much i learned about myself and my current feelings/ behaviors so instantly through the interaction with the horse. It immediately reflected to me what was going on inside and how this related to my behavior in my everyday interactions in life…..It could save years on counseling!.. Naomi was calm, non-judgmental supportive and patient, and Red was a star!.. I would like to learn a lot more about this work I find it fascinating. Thanks Naomi and Red!"

"The horses gave me so much to learn from today and showed how intuitive they are"

"I had an amazing afternoon at Spirit of the Phoenix, Why? nice to get to know me!"

"Simplicity is powerful and a horse is that. Wonderful experience thank you Naomi, Mac, and Red"

"if you want to understand your horse better and make your horses life better and consequently make your own life better then you need to attend this workshop (herd dynamics)"

'The most exciting, interesting and worthwhile experience, Thank you Naomi'

'Confident course in a spacious honest environment'

'Amazing day- really well structured and lots of useful information. Naomi is an amazing, the horses are brill and so is the dog Patch, thank you so much'

'As a counsellor this gives one a different way of working with clients who don't know where to begin or how to stay in the here and now'

'A super run and informative course that provides insight and skills for the profession and the encouragement to grow and develop personally and professionally'

'Insightful and amazing'

'Stimulating and thought- provoking, professionally led and facilitate, Wonderful and loved herd, stunning location, a privilege to participate in, Thank you.'

'Thouroughly enjoyed the 2 day EAL course. It has been informative and friendly and very relaxed. Naomi is a great teacher and communicator and hopefully a friend for life. Thank you so much'

'Thoroughly enjoyed the experience from both a professional and personal point of view. Thank you Naomi for inspiring so beautifully'

"Everyone should experience a session of equine assisted horse therapy'

"I really enjoyed my 4 days, I would come back and do more workshops"

"Naomi is so passionate about how much horses and mother nature can help, and is extremely generous with her knowledge to encourage the field of Equine Assisted Therapy to grow and reach all those who need it. Thank You"

"Excellent course, very relaxed enjoyable environment. Would highly recommend it!"

"I have found this workshop mind blowing- Naomi's honesty and dedication provided a real learning experience"

"Another wonderful day at Spirit of the Phoenix- Naomi's knowledge never fails to inspire me! It's like opening a window to the sunny outside!!"

"Great experience, very informative learning opportunity. Naomi is very knowledgeable and happy to share experiences."

"I found the experience day empowering, interesting and deeply insightful. I feel that it has built my confidence about my outlook/philosophy on life whilst building/ learning new skills and perspective which i can utilize both personally and as a therapist"

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Equine Assisted Therapy & Learning Course