Is Equine-Assisted Therapy Effective?

Research shows that Equine-Assisted Therapy is effective for treating adolescents experiencing depression, anxiety, and/or trauma-related symptoms, as well as ADHD, autism, dissociative disorders, and other mental health diagnoses.

Why is equine therapy so effective?

Research has confirmed many equine therapy benefits. It lowers your blood pressure and heart rate, alleviates stress and reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression. Equine therapy also helps people struggling with addictions or mental illness. There are several life skills that horse teaches better than a person.

Who benefits from equine therapy?

Certain equine-assisted therapies are effective for children with cerebral palsy, behavioral tics, motor control issues, and coordination problems, and for people of any age with reduced mobility. Research has found Equine Therapy to also be beneficial for those with eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia.

What degree do you need for equine therapy?

To become an equine therapist, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree in an animal science or counseling-related field, although some employers require a master’s degree.

How long does it take to be an equine therapist?

Applicant must have at least a bachelor’s degree and 4 years of experience in this field.

Can horses help with anxiety?

While it has long been understood that spending time with animals and pets can have a positive effect on our mood, new research suggests that horses may have a sixth sense that can identify anxiety, stress, and fear in humans, thus helping individuals to identify these emotions in themselves.

Are horses good for mental health?

Additionally, horses are large and powerful and have the potential of allowing people to overcome fear and develop confidence that can be translated into real-life situations. They can also help put people at ease because they’re unbiased and non-judgmental, responding only to people’s intent and behavior.

Do horses recognize their owners?

Many experts agree that horses do, in fact, remember their owners. Studies performed over the years suggest that horses do remember their owners similar to the way they would remember another horse. Past experiences, memories, and auditory cues provide the horse with information as to who an individual is.

What are the benefits of equine assisted therapy?

Studies have shown people of all ages can benefit from equine-assisted therapy, and horses have been incorporated into treatment for a wide variety of issues, including: Cerebral palsy. Inattention and hyperactivity (ADHD) Addictions and substance abuse issues. Mood-related issues.

Why are horses good candidates for equine therapy?

Horses also have distinct personalities that are conducive to the bonding effect necessary for equine therapy patients to achieve their program goals. Just like people, horses can be extroverted, shy, a little stubborn and genuinely affectionate.

What kind of therapy does a horse need?

Some residential treatment centers offer equine therapy programs; other courses are set up between an individual and their psychotherapist. Someone new to equine therapy will generally start with low levels of interaction with the horse: petting, grooming, and feeding.

How does equine therapy help people with cerebral palsy?

Equine therapy can target physical concerns such as behavioral tics, motor control issues, balance, posture, and coordination–especially in children and teens with cerebral palsy. In other cases, working with horses helped by increasing individuals’ cognitive skills, reducing stress, easing symptoms of PTSD,…