8-week program 3 hours a week with shadow opportunities or our hybrid program 12 hours in person in AZ and 8 virtual. A 1-year follow-up, including group and individual sessions, is included in the reduced fee of $3,900.
Learn how to build a successful coaching practice or equine-assisted psychotherapy practice, which is hot in today’s market. Taught by a licensed counselor practicing EAP since 2011, who is also a board-approved clinical supervisor and CE trainer in AZ.
Learn 34 successful interventions to use with horses and clients.
Jacqui has been developing The Icarus Model® of equine-assisted psychotherapy and coaching since 2014. She has refined and tested it out to form this final model, which became a registered trademark in August 2025 (Serial no. 97865516).
See Interview here: https://youtu.be/Itlh5p7T3cE?si=BeidJS2jsCc_72Vk
The Icarus Model® is a sensory-based, attachment-informed model of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) that integrates principles from attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology, sensorimotor psychology, polyvagal theory, sensory integration, and trauma-informed care. The model emphasizes bottom-up nervous system regulation through embodied, relational experiences with the horse as a sentient, responsive co-regulator.
At its core, the Icarus Model® conceptualizes psychological distress as arising not primarily from cognitive distortion, but from disrupted attachment patterns, incomplete sensory processing, and chronic nervous system dysregulation. Healing occurs through felt safety, attuned presence, and sensory-relational experiences rather than insight alone.
She will teach you 1:1 at her private facility in Gilbert, AZ, or she can teach you virtually if you have a Pivo (camera that follows the horse). Hands-on training is important in this field as there are so many safety considerations you need to keep in mind. With a background in teaching Jacqui is able to understand your unique learning style and further your knowledge at your own pace or learning style.
Jacqui has been running a successful practice with a strong waitlist since 2015 (practicing EAP since 2011). Jacqui obtained a certificate in equine behavior from the University of Denver, so she can guide you through understanding your herd better. She is also a trained level 1 equine body worker through elementalacupressure.com. Two years of horse experience is required prior to entering the program to ensure you understand horses and can be safe around them at liberty. An initial screening call will be held before ensure you are a good fit and have enough horse sense. Most of the client work is done with horses at liberty as we believe horses have the right to choose their own path in life.
The 75+ page Icarus Model® Manual with 32 interventions is for sale individually
Quick 10 is an option for those who only want 10 interventions
BOOK FOR SALE: $150 + shipping (US only)
Paper Manual: Buy Book Now
e-Manual: Buy Book Now
Quick 10 e-manual (has 10 interventions): $60 Buy Book Now
First Responder Edition: Buy Book Now
“The 2 programs I attended to learn EAP in 2010 were pretty broad and taught in a large group setting. I wanted to offer a more intimate training where I could address the trainee’s concerns and questions while helping them understand the way of the horse.” Jacqui is here for you for a year as you learn this new model of equine therapy/coaching! The Icarus Model® is currently being researched for effectiveness. Many equine liability insurance plans across the US have approved the Icarus Model®. Jacqui has been mentored in person and virtually by Dr. Rise VanFleet, Dr. Susie Fay & Linda Kohanov (Connections 101 calls & clinic).
Testimonials
“Jacqui is an expert in her field. As a novice to the Equine Assisted Psychotherapy community, I truly value the education I am receiving from Jacqui in the Icarus model. Her passion is very evident and she is an expert in the therapy world and in the equine community. Jacqui has tailored my certification to fit my practice and provided me with invaluable advice regarding my business and herd. I thoroughly researched many certification programs and Jacqui’s program stood out above the rest. She values working with horses and allowing them the liberty to partner with us as clinicians in a way that is safe and holistic for clinicians and clients alike. If you are looking for EAP training, I highly recommend Jacqui’s program. Training is individualized and provided in a 1:1 environment- one of the most unique things about the program. She continues to provide mentorship after certification, which truly speaks to her desire for you to be successful.” -Ashleigh McDonnell, PMHNP of Wild Ember Psychiatry (Arizona)
“The Icarus Model® manual has so many effective, powerful, and life-changing interventions. It made setting up sessions so easy! The training series was amazing, and I gained so much from this one-of-a-kind 1:1 model.” -Michelle Forgey, LPC of Equine Care Counseling (Indiana)
“I loved training with Jacqui. The best part was being able to train with my own horses virtually!” -Heather Houchins (teacher in VA)
“As a first responder, I immediately connected with Jacqui’s First Responder Edition of the Icarus Model. This edition was created by someone who truly understands the unique stressors, trauma exposure, and mindset that come with serving in this profession. What stood out to me most was how accurately Jacqui captured the experiences many first responders carry but often struggle to explain. The activities are thoughtfully designed and paired with insightful questions and observations that reflect a deep awareness of how repeated exposure to critical incidents can affect the brain, behavior, and emotional processing of first responders. Reading through the activities and case notes, I found myself relating to many of the situations described. Too often, resources meant to support first responders miss the mark because they don’t fully understand the culture or the way we process stress and trauma. Jacqui truly hit the nail on the head with this manual. The activities are practical, meaningful, and clearly tailored for the first responder community. This is a powerful and much-needed resource, and I’m grateful for the dedication and compassion Jacqui has poured into creating it to support those who serve on the front lines.” -Mattie Matthews (teacher in Show Low, AZ)
“It is clear to me that Jacqui has developed her program with the best interests of both the student and the horses in mind, which is great! I’m already learning and I have just signed on, viewed the syllabus and watched 2 of the international EAP/EAL groups! Thank you so much, you are truly a Gem.” Mary Baca, LCPCC of Odyssey Counseling (New Mexico)
*These are just a few of the facilities that have been certified*
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