In today’s world, mental health challenges are becoming increasingly common. People are continually searching for effective therapies that can help them manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. An option that has been quickly gaining traction is horse. Equine therapy for mental health has been on the rise, for many reasons. It offers a unique and powerful approach that involves working with horses to promote emotional and psychological healing. And today, we’ll be discussing what it is, what makes it different, and what does a session look like.
What is Equine Therapy?
Equine therapy, also known as equine-assisted therapy, involves therapeutic interactions between individuals and horses. These interactions can vary widely, from riding and caring for horses to structured psychotherapy sessions. Horses have been used for therapy dating back to ancient Greece, where they were used to help improve the physical and mental well-being. It encompasses various practices, including Equine-Assisted Therapy (EAT), Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL), and Hippotherapy. Each of these approaches leverages the calming presence and intuitive nature of horses to help clients confront and overcome their mental health challenges, but what’s the difference?
- Equine-Assisted Therapy (EAT): This form of therapy primarily focuses on psychotherapy (talk therapy.) It involves on-ground activities with horses, such as grooming and leading, to help individuals process emotions and develop coping strategies. EAT is particularly effective for those dealing with PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
- Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL): EAL is more educational and focuses on personal growth and learning. Through interactions with horses, individuals can enhance their communication skills, build confidence, and develop better problem-solving abilities. This is especially helpful to those who have autism, ADHD, and those with intense trust and self-assuredness problems.
- Hippotherapy: This type of therapy involves riding horses, using their rhythmic movements to improve physical coordination, strength, and motor skills. It’s often used for individuals with physical conditions that affect their movement, such as down syndrome and sometimes autism.
Each session is tailored to meet the specific needs of the individual. Whether they require more on-ground activities for psychological healing or riding exercises to enhance physical capabilities. The adaptability and versatility of equine therapy make it a compelling option for those seeking alternative therapeutic approaches.
Why Horses?
Horses possess unique qualities that make them ideal partners in therapy. They are highly sensitive and perceptive animals, capable of detecting subtle changes in human emotions and body language. This sensitivity allows horses to respond to individuals’ feelings and behaviors in real-time, providing immediate feedback that can be incredibly therapeutic. (You can find out more on how horses percieve the world here.)
Unlike traditional therapy, which often involves talking in a clinical setting, equine therapy provides an experiential approach. Working with horses requires individuals to be present, focused, and engaged, which can help them break free from negative thought patterns and develop healthier ways of thinking and behaving. There are many different techniques that can be utilized in this setting that are not available in a clinical one.
Furthermore, the size and power of horses can be both awe-inspiring and intimidating. Building a relationship with such a large and powerful animal requires trust, assertiveness, and emotional regulation. You have to be constantly aware of what you’re feeling, as it can influence the animal. These skills are transferable to other areas of life, helping individuals build confidence and resilience.
When compared to traditional therapy options, equine therapy offers a unique and immersive experience that can lead to profound emotional and psychological healing. The physical presence of the horse, combined with the outdoor setting and hands-on activities, creates a therapeutic environment that is both calming and invigorating.
Benefits
Equine therapy offers a wide range of benefits for physical, emotional, and mental health. By engaging with horses, individuals can experience significant improvements in their well-being.
Physical Benefits
Hippotherapy, in particular, is known for its physical benefits. Riding a horse requires balance, coordination, and core strength, which can help individuals improve their motor skills and muscle tone. The rhythmic movements of the horse can also aid in sensory integration and body awareness.
Emotional and Mental Health
Working with horses can reduce or eliminate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The presence of the horse provides a calming effect, while the activities involved in equine therapy help individuals develop emotional regulation, self-esteem, and social skills. The bond formed with the horse can also provide a sense of connection and companionship, which is particularly beneficial for those who feel isolated or disconnected.
Healing with Horses: Jaycee Dugard
Jaycee Dugard, who was kidnapped at age 11 and held captive for 18 years, has become an advocate for equine therapy through her JAYC Foundation. After her rescue, Dugard used horses as part of her healing process, finding them to be non-judgmental and calming. Her foundation now helps others, particularly those who have experienced trauma, by providing equine therapy programs. Dugard’s personal experience and advocacy have brought significant attention to the therapeutic benefits of working with horses, especially for PTSD sufferers, and have helped legitimize and popularize equine therapy in the mental health field. You can find her website for the foundation here: The JAYC Foundation | Just Ask Yourself to… Care!
What to Expect in a Session
Equine therapy sessions are tailored to the client’s needs and goals. Depending on the type of therapy, sessions can involve different activities and approaches.
- Equine-Assisted Therapy (EAT): Sessions typically involve on-ground activities such as grooming, leading, and interacting with the horse. The therapist guides the individual through these activities, helping them process their emotions and develop coping strategies. The focus is on building trust, communication, and emotional regulation.
- Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL): These sessions are more educational and may involve activities that promote personal growth and learning. Individuals might work on problem-solving tasks, team-building exercises, or communication skills with the help of horses. The aim is to develop skills that can be applied in various aspects of life.
- Hippotherapy: In these sessions, the individual rides the horse under the guidance of a trained therapist. The horse’s movements are used to improve physical coordination, strength, and motor skills. The therapist may also incorporate specific exercises and activities to target the individual’s physical needs.
A typical session usually lasts about 45 to 60 minutes. The therapist will work closely with the individual to ensure the activities are safe, appropriate, and beneficial. The outdoor setting and the presence of the horse create a calming and therapeutic environment that enhances the overall experience.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of equine therapy can vary depending on the type of therapy, the location, and the duration of the sessions. On average, equine therapy sessions cost between $50 to $150 per hour. However, there are many nonprofits that offer financial help or sliding scale fees. Suprisingly, this an average cost for therapy in general, even in a clinical setting, though it may seem expensive.
Insurance coverage for equine therapy varies. Some insurance plans may cover equine therapy if it is prescribed by a healthcare provider and deemed medically necessary. It is important to check with your insurance provider to determine if equine therapy is covered under your plan.
For those seeking financial assistance, organizations like the JAYC Foundation may provide support or resources to help cover the cost of therapy. Exploring these options can make equine therapy more accessible to those who could benefit from it.
Impact and Growth
Equine therapy is gaining popularity as more people become aware of its benefits and success stories. According to recent statistics, thousands of individuals in the US are now using equine therapy as part of their mental health treatment. The growth of equine therapy programs and the increasing number of certified equine therapists reflect its rising acceptance and demand.
Research studies have shown that equine therapy can lead to significant improvements in mental health. Participants in equine therapy programs often report reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD, as well as improved emotional regulation and social skills. The combination of physical activity, emotional connection with the horse, and the therapeutic guidance provided by trained professionals contributes to these positive outcomes.
The success of equine therapy can be attributed to its unique approach, which differs from traditional therapy methods. By engaging with horses in a natural setting, individuals can experience a sense of peace, connection, and empowerment that is difficult to achieve in a conventional therapy environment.
How to Become an Equine Therapist?
Today, there are a handful of colleges and universitys offering a degree in equine therapy. However, there a couple other options, as a degree in equine therapy is not absolutely necessary. Many equine therapists are self-employed throught their own private practice. So what exactly is the process to be a therapist? Well, there are a few options available. If you would like to focus more on education and coaching instead of the mental health, then you don’t have to worry about degree in mental health. You do need to have either a degree in education/coaching, or, depending on what organization you go through, minimum years of work experience in that field.
If you’re more intersted in the mental health, you must have a B.A. degree in something tha tteaches psychotherapy. Typically, there are two or more people running the session: the therapist and the horse specialist. Depending on what you want to specialize in will determine the process. Here are three certification boards you can go through.
1. Certification Board for Equine Interaction Professionals (CBEIP)
This board is for both mental health and education. The requirements needed for certification are listed on their website, that you can find here.
2. Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH International)
Probably the most recognized out of the three listed here, they offer a few different certifications. There are 3 phases you must complete for a mental health certification. You can also register under their organization as an individual for benefits, without the requirement of being certified, as well as a center. You can find more information on what they offer here: Therapeutic Horsemanship | Professional Certifications | PATH Intl
3. Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA)
This program teams up a mental health professional with an equine professional. There is a large focus on the military ans helping veterans with PTSD. Through their certification you have two options: you can be certified for therapy, or you can choose to be certified to be an equine specialist. You can find more about the process here.
In Conclusion
Equine therapy for mental health is proving to be a powerful and effective alternative to traditional therapy options. The unique qualities of horses, combined with the therapeutic activities and the serene outdoor environment, create a holistic approach to healing that addresses both the mind and body.
With numerous success stories and growing research supporting its effectiveness, equine therapy is becoming a popular choice for individuals seeking to improve their mental health. Whether it’s through Equine-Assisted Therapy, Equine-Assisted Learning, or Hippotherapy, the healing power of horses is making a significant impact on the lives of many.
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