Equine therapy is a type of experiential mental health treatment that can provide a number of therapeutic benefits to people with physical and mental health problems. It can help individuals develop confidence, self-efficiency, communication, perspective, social skills, impulse control, and learning from limits. Horse-assisted therapy teaches teens the importance of nonverbal communication and how their emotions and non-verbal cues affect those around them. Effective nonverbal communication with a horse requires emotional regulation and self-awareness.
In turn, these healthy abilities are transferred to other human relationships. Depending on the style of equine therapy used, the benefits may vary. Equine therapy at Integrative Life Center allows clients to participate in “down-to-earth” interactions with horses. Designed for people of all ages, equine therapy has been shown to treat a wide range of mental health problems, addressing the physical and psychological issues associated with diagnosis.
Instead of traditional talk therapy, it's an experiential therapy in which an equine therapist guides you through activities and interactions with horses. Equine therapy for the purpose of addressing mental health issues generally involves both a psychotherapist and a horse trainer. It can also treat physical problems such as behavioral tics, motor control problems, balance, posture and coordination, especially in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy. Therefore, equine therapy supports the development of positive relationships with oneself, with other people and with our animal friends.
The cost of equine assisted therapy sessions is dictated by the professional and varies depending on several variables. In addition, there are some specialized programs for veterans that incorporate elements of equine learning and horse-assisted therapy. People seeking help usually work with both a psychotherapist specializing in equine therapy and with a horse trainer who is familiar with its therapeutic application, although both functions can be performed by the same person. It is important to be aware of some of the dangers posed by the activity, including the size and weight of most horses as well as potential allergic reactions to horses or their environment (barn dust or hay, for example).
Equine therapy has been shown to have a positive effect on destructive relationship patterns that have developed or on behaviors that compromise health or safety. In addition, it can be used as a form of counseling for couples and for the formation of groups and teams.
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