Our methodology and systems approach has been developed through combining the following disciplines: Kinesiology, Neurophysiology, Sensory Integration Theory, Behavioral Psychology, Social Developmental Theory, Cognitive Development Theory, Relational Cultural Theory, Behavioral Research Methodology, Training and Organizational Development. These are all critical in supporting the equine-mounted activities. HBM’s interactive and holistic approach draws out the potential locked in the participant’s brain by learning how to receive information and express themselves simultaneously. Improvements in learning and behavior are immediate and profound.

 
With these behavioral, psychological, and evidence-based intervention principles, the program’s purpose is to enhance the participant’s competency strategies. Competency strategies are how our participants acquire knowledge and life values. Competency strategies are directly related to their relationships, as well as their living, learning, and working environments through establishing a normal integrated brain activity. The program activities provide the basis for our participants to be in a “ready to learn” mode, allowing them to work through stages of behavioral change, to increase and maintain positive interactions with others and simultaneously help them to see how their own thinking and choices affect and perpetuate negative behaviors. The participants progress through these stages by learning and exhibiting self-control, positive decision-making choices and relationship-building skills. HBM anticipates that, at completion of the program, the participants will be learning to replace antisocial behaviors with pro-social competency skills.