January 16, 2025

Healing Through Horses and Nature with Norunn Kogstad: Psychotherapy, Equine Welfare, and the Joy of Belonging | Ep 20 Equine Assisted World

1 hour 43 minutes

Norunn Kogstad, a Norwegian psychotherapist and psychiatrist, is the visionary behind Lundehagen, a therapeutic center that blends psychotherapy, equine-assisted therapy, and exceptional horse welfare practices. With decades of experience and a deep passion for human and equine well-being, Norunn has created a sanctuary where healing, connection, and joy thrive. Her unique approach integrates relational therapy and cutting-edge practices that transform lives for both people and horses.

In this inspiring conversation, Norunn shares her journey, her philosophy of equine care, and how fostering joy and belonging can heal emotional wounds.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The Foundation of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (Starts at 0:47):
Norunn explains what psychotherapy is, its historical evolution, and why horses play such a vital role in this healing process.
Joy and Belonging Through Horses (Starts at 15:20):
Discover how Norunn’s childhood experiences in nature with horses shaped her vision for Lundehagen and inspired her to create a space where clients and horses connect deeply.
Relational and Conflict-Focused Therapy (Starts at 28:50):
Learn about the therapeutic techniques used at Lundehagen, emphasizing relationships, empathy, and addressing self-defeating patterns.
Holistic Horse Welfare Practices (Starts at 45:15):
Norunn shares Lundehagen’s approach to ensuring the physical and emotional well-being of their horses, including the importance of choice and variety in their daily lives.
Creating Joyful Therapy Sessions (Starts at 1:01:10):
Hear real-life examples of how equine-assisted therapy fosters joy and resilience in clients, with horses as active participants in the process.
The Intersection of Neuroscience and Equine Therapy (Starts at 1:18:40):
Explore the science behind how horses respond to humans’ subtle signals and the profound impact this has on emotional regulation and healing.

Memorable Moments from the Episode:

Norunn’s reflections on finding belonging in the mountains with her first Icelandic pony (16:40).
Insights into the importance of allowing horses to opt out of sessions and how this empowers both horses and clients (46:20).
A touching story about a chaotic client finding peace and joy during an equine therapy session (1:02:35).
Norunn’s discussion on the role of physical conditioning and classical dressage in equine-assisted therapy programs (1:10:15).

Contact Norunn Kogstad
🌐 Website: https://lundehagen.no
📧 Email: mailto:[email protected]

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By Rupert Isaacson

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