Healing Power of Horses

“Therapy relies on language. Horses are expert communicators, yet they never rely on language. Everything happens with energy. When my patients connect to horses, they can reconnect with a disavowed part of themselves.” – Andreas Liefooghe, founder of Operation Centaur

Equine therapy, often referred to as equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) or horse therapy, is a form of experiential therapy involving interactions between patients and horses. Its popularity has grown significantly in recent decades. Horses are centred as therapists, responding to their human patients with instincts instead of judgments – creating a safe space to uncover feelings that may be difficult to articulate, or are hidden under the surface.

Equine assisted psychotherapy is the practise of spending regular and constructive time with horses in order to observe responses. Guided by a psychotherapist, people can gain a deeper and more reflective understanding of themselves, their situation and their relationship to others.

Equine therapy is grounded in both experiential and biological interactions, and presents a valuable therapeutic option for numerous conditions. While more extensive research and larger sample sizes are needed to solidify its standing in the therapeutic community, current studies underscore its value and potential to enhance both mental and physical wellbeing.

“Horses taught me to accept help from others, to work on trust and to not be so quick to turn to anger.” – Simon, 33

EAP is particularly good at moving people on from where they feel blocked or stuck. It enables people to work through their issues without solely needing to rely on language.

Research by London-based equine therapy clinic Operation Centaur shows that their clients were eight times more confident in their own value after therapy, four times more persistent in setting their boundaries and five times more likely to believe in their ability to get things done.

Equine-assisted psychotherapy increased levels of confidence in 92% of Operation Centaur patients, with 86% of patients reporting they are more open to new perspectives – one of the fundamental aspects of healthy relationships. An additional 77% also say they were more open to emotions and new challenges.

The effectiveness of equine therapy hinges on several factors:
– Biological interaction: Physically, the rhythmic motion of riding a horse can be therapeutic. This is especially true for individuals with physical disabilities, as the horse’s gait offers a unique movement pattern, promoting balance, and coordination.
– Emotional and psychological connection: Interacting with horses has been shown to reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and decrease stress levels. Horses are intuitive animals that can mirror human emotions, providing an opportunity for introspection and understanding.
– Socio-environmental engagement: The outdoor setting, combined with group interactions in many equine therapy programs, offers a relaxed environment that can be socially enriching.

Participants in equine assisted psychotherapy can expect to expedite their progress through whatever challenge they are facing. When progress with other therapeutic methods has plateaued, or where a person is feeling stuck and the path forward is unclear, working with horses may create the breakthrough that is required for further advancement. The shift in perspective from our own experience to the experience that the horse has of us opens up a world of unexplored opportunities for self-development.

Mental health studies related to equine therapy indicate very promising efficacy rates:

• In a study on equine therapy for veterans with PTSD, approximately 80% of participants reported significant reductions in symptoms.
• Adolescents with depression and anxiety showed a 60% improvement in symptoms after participating in a 12-week equine therapy program.
• Over 70% of children with autism spectrum disorders exhibited improved social interaction and communication skills after a series of equine therapy sessions.

“The horse was crowding me; he was standing so close I felt I had no space. The team asked me what I could do. I said ‘nothing’. When they said, ‘Why not try pushing back?’, I thought they were mad. He weighs more than a tonne. But I pushed and he did move; I burst into tears. I never realised I could have my space so easily if I decided that’s what I wanted.” Mandy, 43.

Equine therapy can include the caring for, riding, training, observing and interacting with horses to support a variety of mental health conditions – from alcoholism and addiction to depression and disordered eating.

Research has shown that equine therapy can be beneficial for a variety of conditions:

• Mental health disorders: Equine therapy has been employed in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD and other psychological conditions. It offers a non-judgmental environment where patients can express themselves freely and develop coping mechanisms.
• Developmental disorders: Children and adults with autism, ADHD and other developmental disorders have shown improvements in concentration, patience and communication after engaging in equine therapy.
• Physical disabilities: As mentioned earlier, the act of riding can help with balance and coordination. Individuals with conditions like cerebral palsy or those recovering from accidents have reported physical improvements from the therapy.
• Substance abuse and addiction: By fostering responsibility, discipline and self-reflection, equine therapy has emerged as an adjunctive treatment for addiction recovery.

The benefits of equine therapy go beyond addressing specific conditions, they encompass systemic improvements in quality of life.

Overall, participants have reported:

• Enhanced self-esteem and confidence: Accomplishing tasks, such as riding or taking care of a horse, boosts self-worth.
• Improved interpersonal skills: Working with horses often requires teamwork, which can improve communication and collaboration skills.
• Mindfulness and presence: Engaging with these majestic creatures encourages individuals to remain present, focussing on the current moment, which is a key component of many mindfulness practices.