Equine therapy, also known as equine-assisted therapy, is a treatment that includes equine activities, and or an equine environment, in order to promote physical, occupational, and emotional growth in those suffering from a wide array of diagnoses and disabilities. Those suffering from anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and traumas are among those who may benefit from this form of therapy. Trauma can greatly affect how we connect and form bonds with others. Equine therapy, however, can greatly help nurture love, trust, and care for another living creature.
Building Connections
Horses have similar social and responsive behaviors as humans, which makes them great therapy animals. Many people find it easy to build a connection with the horse through this process. Equine therapy can help individuals build confidence, self-efficacy, communication, trust, perspective, social skills, impulse control, and boundaries.
Judgement Free
Many people find comfort and support from this form of therapy because there is no judgment from the horse. As you grow more comfortable so will the horse, creating a friendship and bond. The horse does not care about your past choices and does not judge what you are going through. As you learn about the horse, you will also learn about yourself, your needs, and your fears. The horse takes its time to warm up, teaching you that it is also ok to take your time with whatever you are going through. Everyone knows the classic saying, you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink. Taking your time to open up, and seeking help when you are ready, are key aspects to successful therapy.
Equine therapy typically includes calming activities, such as riding, grooming, feeding, or walking. It is always guided by a trained therapist to ensure that proper techniques for the safety of both the client and the horse are being utilized.
Following trauma, you may have a hard time connecting to those around you. Building bonds can be challenging, and finding trust can feel impossible. Finding the right form of therapy can make all the difference when learning to work through hardships. Equine therapy is a wonderful therapy option for many different diagnoses and challenges. This form of therapy can help you create a bond, develop trust, work on social skills, improve impulse control, and learn boundaries. The Guest House can help you work through trauma with a number of different therapy techniques and styles, including equine therapy. We are here to support you. Call us at (855) 483-7800 for more information.