Adventure Therapy builds confidence in young people facing psychosis
15 October 2025
Service users of the Hywel Dda University Health Board (UHB) Early Intervention in Psychosis (EIP) service recently visited Brynteg Farm and Wellbeing Sanctuary in Llanelli for animal-assisted sessions as part of their Adventure Therapy programme.
EIP is a service that helps people, usually young people, who are showing signs of psychosis for the first time. Psychosis can make someone see or hear things that aren’t there, believe things that aren’t true, or feel confused and scared.
Brynteg Farm offers one-to-one interactive sessions aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of animals, how to responsibly care for and connect with them, all within a safe, tranquil, and enjoyable environment.
Over the course of three days, 30 EIP service users attended two-hour sessions at the farm to support mental health recovery through therapeutic outdoor experiences. These sessions are a key component of the EIP Adventure Therapy programme, which encourages young people to face challenges, step outside their comfort zones, and build resilience.
Led by farm owner Phil John and supported by staff from the Hywel Dda EIP team, each attendee was introduced to a wide variety of animals, including ferrets, pigs, horses, llamas, and chickens. Phil’s extensive knowledge and calm manner enabled participants to engage meaningfully with both the animals and each other.
Lynsey Lewis, Specialist Occupational Therapy Technician at Hywel Dda UHB, said: “Service users had the opportunity to walk and ride horses, which many participants initially feared.
“Phil’s patience and understanding were instrumental in helping each individual overcome personal barriers. Encouragement from peers further enhanced the therapeutic impact.”
Service user Emily said, “I was really nervous to ride the horse but found that the staff made me feel confident enough to try it. I felt very proud of myself when I had done it.
“Going to the farm helped me chat in a more informal environment to new people in the group. I found it a very calming and fun experience, and I really enjoyed my time there.”
Lynsey added: “We are incredibly grateful to Phil for his generosity, insight, and dedication to supporting mental health through nature and animal interaction. Thanks to funding from Mind, every young person was able to experience the visit to Brynteg Farm and left with new knowledge, confidence, and a sense of achievement.”
The EIP service currently supports individuals between 14 and 25 years of age and their families