When people come to mediation, they are often in what is called their “stress personality” which can make conflict resolution more difficult. Our INACCORD conflict analysis system was designed to offer clients a predictable, measured process that uses surveys to ensure they are feeling satisfied and empowered and understand each step of the process. This helps immeasurably in turning down the emotion in their stress personalities; however, some individuals still experience stress reactions that make it almost impossible to reach resolution.

Mediators Without Borders developed INACCORD Equine Assisted Conflict Resolution™ to address trauma that must be at least partially released to attempt resolution of any present day conflict. Horses instinctively know how to use all their senses to create safe spaces for their herd in an often dangerous world. They effortlessly bring this sense of safety to traumatized humans who need connection and safety in a trusting, nonverbal relationship. Sometimes horses heal simply by nuzzling, snorting and being groomed by a human. In other situations, a person can gain confidence and a sense of agency over their environment by taking a guided walk on the back of a horse or learning to ride on their own.

When conflict arises in individuals who have considerable historical trauma or trauma from the dispute at hand, it can be very difficult to find resolution. Trauma refers to a person’s response to an event that psychologically or physically overwhelms the mind and body. This often results in shock, denial and temporary or lasting negative effects in the mind, body and behavior of the individual or group. The causes of trauma are not just the obvious ones such as physical or abusive events but also repetitive exposure to negative abuses such as being screamed at or demeaned on an ongoing basis. It is estimated that 70% of the US population will experience a traumatic event in their lifespan with about 8-12% of this group developing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD is one of the most common mental health conditions in the United States resulting in addiction, social phobias, and physical disease.

Most approaches to trauma focus on how it lives in the body long after the mind has suppressed the memory of the initial abuse. This includes talk therapy, mindfulness, meditation and body movement such as that based on the work of Peter Levine. There is also a growing use of equine assisted trauma release mostly used in veterans who are experiencing PTSD from the shock and suffering of combat. INACCORD Equine Assisted Conflict Resolution™ proudly stands on the shoulders of this important work with our veterans.

“The contribution of the horse is to facilitate safe connection, calm the human’s nervous system, help open the heart, foster presence, enlivenment, compassion, and awareness while also teaching boundary setting, embodied awareness, empowerment, and partnership. We don’t pay them nearly enough!” -Nancy Coyne, MD, member of the Board of Directors of Horses and Humans Research Foundation.