Equine Therapy

Equine therapy is a unique program that utilizes horses to provide an experiential atmosphere for its participants. The setting is similar to a traditional stable, but the activities are somewhat different. Residents are challenged to adjust their own behaviors in order to modify ineffective coping skills. Participants can expect to experience challenging activities that benefit people from all walks of life. Activities are designed to promote trust, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving (among others). A very important element is developing an understanding of equine behavior and using learned skills to adapt to the horse’s environment.

Equine therapy provides a diverse range of opportunities. Each activity is designed with a specific objective and an underlying theme. Participants need not have any experience handling horses to benefit or be active in the exercise. Each session is unique because of group dynamics and individual horse/human characteristics. Dynamics brought out by the activity are discussed at the end of each session in the group debrief.

The nine-week module is divided into thirty-two planned activities. With activities planned for each day, they begin with a tour of the barn and its contents, and then continue into how to take care of the horses on a day-to-day basis and on the weekends. The residents have an opportunity to earn a ceremony at the end of the module..

Benefits

The advantages of Equine therapy are many. The opportunity to work with a live animal adds a valuable dynamic to group interaction. Here is a sample of some of the benefits:

Builds confidence and self-esteem
Develops an awareness of equine body language that relates to human body language and communication
Presents the horse as an objective and honest teacher
Assists in identifying personal issues
Teaches responsibility for caring for an animal
Develops empathy for others
Draws out issues such as fear, anger, apathy, defeat, aggressiveness, and displaced emotions
Promotes assertiveness, leadership, thought, endurance, and open-mindedness
Provides “fun” activities

Background

The equine services department works with other equine therapy programs around the country to maintain a high level of creativity and resources. The program is designed to meet horse care standards set by the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) and prides itself in exceeding them. Instructors are certified under the Equine Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) that provides the knowledge necessary for facilitating activities effectively.