A Horse Is A Horse Is A Therapist?

Using Equine Therapy As A Model For HealingUsing Equine Therapy As A Model For HealingPresented by: Carrie RollaPresented by: Carrie Rolla

Crisis, Trauma, and Recovery - Spring 2012Crisis, Trauma, and Recovery - Spring 2012

A Horse Is A Horse Is A Therapist?

Using Equine Therapy As A Model For HealingUsing Equine Therapy As A Model For HealingPresented by: Carrie RollaPresented by: Carrie Rolla

Crisis, Trauma, and Recovery - Spring 2012Crisis, Trauma, and Recovery - Spring 2012

What Is Equine Therapy?

Equine Therapy uses horses as a part of treatment for a variety of physical and psychological problems. When a

participant is working hands-on with a horse they begin to focus more on the

care of the animal than the difficult personal issues they are facing. As a

result, the participant can begin to feel more at peace while developing a

friendship with a horse companion.

What Is Equine Therapy?

Equine Therapy uses horses as a part of treatment for a variety of physical and psychological problems. When a

participant is working hands-on with a horse they begin to focus more on the

care of the animal than the difficult personal issues they are facing. As a

result, the participant can begin to feel more at peace while developing a

friendship with a horse companion.

The Role of An Equine Therapist -Equine Therapy involves nurturing a horse by means of grooming, feeding, haltering, games, and exercises. During the process of treatment, an Equine Assisted Psychotherapist or Equine Assisted Learning Therapist work alongside the participant integrating talk therapy. Each realm includes a horse handler. By teaching a participant how to work with a horse, the therapist indirectly teaches them how to apply the same skill sets in their lives.

The Role of An Equine Therapist -Equine Therapy involves nurturing a horse by means of grooming, feeding, haltering, games, and exercises. During the process of treatment, an Equine Assisted Psychotherapist or Equine Assisted Learning Therapist work alongside the participant integrating talk therapy. Each realm includes a horse handler. By teaching a participant how to work with a horse, the therapist indirectly teaches them how to apply the same skill sets in their lives.

Why Equine Therapy?Horses lend us the wings we lack - Unknown

Equine Therapy is a discipline used to promote both emotional growth and healing within one’s psychotherapeutic experience. Although there are many different types of animal assisted therapy, horses are commonly used for their unique attributes and nonjudgemental behaviors. Many participants involved in Equine Therapy express the fun and enjoyment of working hands-on with such magnificent creatures. In addition, many participants feel as if they are not within a traditional therapy session.Within the therapeutic setting, horses are known to provide immediate feedback and mirror one’s physical state. By learning to adjust one’s body language, a trusting relationship can begin to grow between both the participant and horse.

Why Equine Therapy?Horses lend us the wings we lack - Unknown

Equine Therapy is a discipline used to promote both emotional growth and healing within one’s psychotherapeutic experience. Although there are many different types of animal assisted therapy, horses are commonly used for their unique attributes and nonjudgemental behaviors. Many participants involved in Equine Therapy express the fun and enjoyment of working hands-on with such magnificent creatures. In addition, many participants feel as if they are not within a traditional therapy session.Within the therapeutic setting, horses are known to provide immediate feedback and mirror one’s physical state. By learning to adjust one’s body language, a trusting relationship can begin to grow between both the participant and horse.

A Short History of Equine TherapyThe horse, the horse! The symbol of surging potency and power of movement, of

action. - D.H. Lawrence

- Over centuries the horse has been both artistically depicted and characterized as noble, honorable, sacred, a messenger of knowledge, and a symbol of strength or stamina.

- Equine Therapy has its roots noted almost over 2 centuries ago. Two German physicians, Gerald Van Swieten (1700-1772) and Anton de Haen (1704-1776), suggested horseback riding for patients with mental illness. Interestingly, both physicians noted a reduced number of attacks of

hypochondria and hysteria in their patients.

- In 1977, a German physician, Wolfgang Heipertz, developed a model of therapeutic riding that defined three components of healing: Medicine, Psychological Education, and Horsemanship. In his

book, “The Therapeutic Riding, Medicine, Education, and Sports” (1977), he supports these components as reducing physical ailments, mental disorders, and rehabilitating individuals to

increase motor control.

- In 1969, the North American Riding for the Handicap Association (NARHA) recognized the increase of interest in the therapeutic process of riding for those with physical disabilities. This

started a national trend of providing forms of animal therapy for those who have a range of impairments. For example, those with physical, emotional, cognitive or social difficulties.

- Due to the popularity of this form of psychotherapy, the first non-profit organization launched internationally in July of 1999 called the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association

(EAGALA). This organization continues to provide certifications in either equine psychotherapy or equine assisted learning. All therapeutic models are built on three core elements: a team

approach, solution-focused, and the practice of their code of ethics. References:

www.eagala.orgwww.counselormagazine.com

www.great-horses.org (Germany) www.princetonol.com

A Short History of Equine TherapyThe horse, the horse! The symbol of surging potency and power of movement, of

action. - D.H. Lawrence

- Over centuries the horse has been both artistically depicted and characterized as noble, honorable, sacred, a messenger of knowledge, and a symbol of strength or stamina.

- Equine Therapy has its roots noted almost over 2 centuries ago. Two German physicians, Gerald Van Swieten (1700-1772) and Anton de Haen (1704-1776), suggested horseback riding for patients with mental illness. Interestingly, both physicians noted a reduced number of attacks of

hypochondria and hysteria in their patients.

- In 1977, a German physician, Wolfgang Heipertz, developed a model of therapeutic riding that defined three components of healing: Medicine, Psychological Education, and Horsemanship. In his

book, “The Therapeutic Riding, Medicine, Education, and Sports” (1977), he supports these components as reducing physical ailments, mental disorders, and rehabilitating individuals to

increase motor control.

- In 1969, the North American Riding for the Handicap Association (NARHA) recognized the increase of interest in the therapeutic process of riding for those with physical disabilities. This

started a national trend of providing forms of animal therapy for those who have a range of impairments. For example, those with physical, emotional, cognitive or social difficulties.

- Due to the popularity of this form of psychotherapy, the first non-profit organization launched internationally in July of 1999 called the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association

(EAGALA). This organization continues to provide certifications in either equine psychotherapy or equine assisted learning. All therapeutic models are built on three core elements: a team

approach, solution-focused, and the practice of their code of ethics. References:

www.eagala.orgwww.counselormagazine.com

www.great-horses.org (Germany) www.princetonol.com

Defining The Difference Between EAP & EAL?

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy or Equine Assisted Learning

Defining The Difference Between EAP & EAL?

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy or Equine Assisted Learning

EQUINE ASSISTED PSYCHOTHERAPY-

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy integrates the use of a horse for emotional learning aligned with specific treatment goals.

It is a collaboration between a Licensed Psychotherapist and a Professional Horse Handler.

Experiential in nature and focused on psychology rather than horseback riding.

Participants learn about themselves while processing feelings, behaviors, and patterns.

EAP applies the use of non-verbal communication, assertiveness, and creative thinking.

EAP consists of a brief and short-term therapeutic approach.

Getting To The Horse Of The Matter.....Bringing Together The Natural Lesson

Of Working With Others -

Getting To The Horse Of The Matter.....Bringing Together The Natural Lesson

Of Working With Others -

EQUINE ASSISTED LEARNING -

Focus is on learning or educational goals decided by an individual or group of participants.

Involves an individual or team of Mental Health Professionals as well as Professional Horse Handlers.

Often times, participants will use this form of therapy as a team-building exercise. For example, strengthening leadership skills and resiliency.

Offers time for reflection, contemplation, and discussion.

Sessions are intense and provide rapid breakthroughs in participants.

Why Horses? The Silent Therapists

“One session of Equine Therapy is equal to five sessions on the couch.” Dr. Sakeada

(Retrieved From Equine Therapy For Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders by Bob Wassom)

Why Horses? The Silent Therapists

“One session of Equine Therapy is equal to five sessions on the couch.” Dr. Sakeada

(Retrieved From Equine Therapy For Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders by Bob Wassom)

Horses are honest animals which makes them especially honest messengers.

Horses respond negatively to negative emotions.

Horses respond positively to positive emotions.

They have no ulterior motives.

A horse can provide immediate non-verbal feedback.

Horses have distinct personalities, moods, and temperament.

When an individuals changes themselves, a horse will respond differently.

Most importantly, horses like to have fun!

Who Is Eligible For Equine Therapies?Who Is Eligible For Equine Therapies?Equine Therapy can be provided for those who have a range of physical, emotional, cognitive, and social difficulties. This includes either residential or outpatient treatment settings. The following is a list of populations in which Equine Therapy can be extremely beneficial:

Physical and Occupational Therapy

Physical, Mental, Sensory, and Emotional Conditions

Handicap, Cerebral Palsy, and those with Special Needs

Victims of Domestic Violence, Sexual Trauma, and Rape Crisis

Pre and Post Eating Disorder Treatments

Gang-Intervention Programs

At-Risk Students or Youth

Assistance in Stress or Anxiety Reduction

Both Children and Adults with Autism or Asperger’s Disorder

Mental Retardation Disorders

Children, Adolescent, Adult, and Elderly Mental Health

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in War Veterans

Those Who Suffer From War-Inflicted Brain Injuries

National Veteran’s Association Members

Couples and Family Retreats for Soldiers of War

Participants in the Families of the Fallen Programs

Substance-Related Addiction and Recovery Assistance

Couples or Family Therapy

Psychotherapeutic Skill Sets And Benefits of Equine Therapy:

Psychotherapeutic Skill Sets And Benefits of Equine Therapy:

Trust, Respect, Confidence, Responsibility

Affection, Unconditional Love, Self-Acceptance

Forgiveness, Self Control, Consistency, Clear Communication

Anger Management, Anxiety, Stress Reduction

Eating Disorders Treatment

Improved Sensory Integration and Balance Control

Corrected Posture and Increase In Muscle Tone

Development of Fine and Large Motor Skills

Improvement In Independent Social Skills

Development of Personal Boundaries

Creative, Inspirational, and Spiritual Growth

The Integration of Experiential Theory Into Equine Therapy

From the beginning, many theoretical approaches have applied into Equine Therapy as well as a variety of Animal-Assisted

Therapies. The most applicable in nature to both a participant and horse is Experiential Therapy. Experiential Therapy is not another method of problem resolution, but it directs participants to revisit

or open doors they have previously closed. Rather than using traditional talk therapy, this model involves actions, movements,

and mental exercises. One of the most powerful benefits of Experiential Therapy is that a therapist can observe a participant working on a particular task. At this time, participants are given an opportunity to understand and discover for themselves. As a result, through exercises, experiences, and processing one can

address any subconscious thoughts which emerge alongside their therapist. Once the individual identifies maladaptive behaviors,

they are provided with opportunities to restructure self-supporting ways of thinking.

The Integration of Experiential Theory Into Equine Therapy

From the beginning, many theoretical approaches have applied into Equine Therapy as well as a variety of Animal-Assisted

Therapies. The most applicable in nature to both a participant and horse is Experiential Therapy. Experiential Therapy is not another method of problem resolution, but it directs participants to revisit

or open doors they have previously closed. Rather than using traditional talk therapy, this model involves actions, movements,

and mental exercises. One of the most powerful benefits of Experiential Therapy is that a therapist can observe a participant working on a particular task. At this time, participants are given an opportunity to understand and discover for themselves. As a result, through exercises, experiences, and processing one can

address any subconscious thoughts which emerge alongside their therapist. Once the individual identifies maladaptive behaviors,

they are provided with opportunities to restructure self-supporting ways of thinking.

Defining And Conceptualizing Trauma:A) When one is confronted with overwhelming affects that threaten it disrupt psychic

activities (Krystal).

B) A unique individual experience, associated with an event or enduring conditions, in which the ability to integrate affective experiences become overwhelming or threaten life

and bodily integrity (Peralman & Saavkitne, 1995).

C) A unbearable situation resulting in an overwhelmed affect that is manifested in neuroses that help prevent the traumatic situation/response. For example, a subjective

feeling of helplessness (Freud, 1894).

D) As ‘affliction of the powerless’...events that ‘overwhelm the ordinary systems of care that give people a sense of control, connection, and meaning’ (Herman, 1992).

Resource: (Crisis, Trauma, and Recovery Lecture Notes, Dr. Marlo, 2012).

Emotion-Focused Therapy: The Most Applicable Model For Treating Complex

Trauma Within an Equine FacilityEFT or Emotion-Focused Trauma Model treats a variety of complex stress disorders such as PTSD, sexual, and physical abuse.

EFT is a scientifically-based model which works with specific emotions to increase one’s ability to adapt.

Past experiences of maltreatment, abuse, and complex trauma can strongly influence one’s belief system and self-concept.

Emotion-Focused Model Continued...“Founded on the premise that verbally symbolizing present moment subjective experiences (feelings and meanings) is the primary source of new information, psychological growth, and when emotion is activated, the healing” (Courtois, 2009, p.299).

EFT uses standard emotion management techniques such as breathing, relaxation, and present-centered exercises to bring awareness back to an individual.

“The initial session is devoted to a strong emotional bond and plan for therapy goals” (Courtois, 2009, p.302).

The use of a horse in the EFT model replaces the past trauma experiences with a renewed connection to life and humanity (Courtois, 2009).

133f

Approaches And Strategies Used By A Therapist In An Emotion-Focused Model

Safety and trust to avoid a damaged alliance.

Empathetic responses and validation to one’s feelings.

Allowing a participant to manage, process, and control painful feelings on their own time.

Practice active listening in response to a participant’s past and current trauma experiences.

The use of verbal and directive communication.

The integration of new strategies to help one cope with feelings of fear, avoidance, and depression.

Continual observation to mark progress and guide interventions, if needed.

Taking The Reins - What Does A Typical Emotion-Based

Session Look Like?

Taking The Reins - What Does A Typical Emotion-Based

Session Look Like?

Dressing appropriately for weather and wearing closed-toe shoes.

Identifying goals of sessions with Equine Therapist and Horse Handler before treatment begins.

Individuals are asked to fully participate in treatment and refrain from missed/cancelled sessions due to emotional distress.

The first session is dedicated in becoming acquainted with one’s assigned horse. Time is spent: touching, petting, talking, grooming, haltering, and even leading their horse. Some learn how to feed their horse.

Taking The Reins Continued...Taking The Reins Continued...Pre-process: Practice safety, understand zones, and non-verbal and verbal tones of communication with assigned horse.

Most treatment programs range from 10-12 sessions, but the time frame is not always predicted.

Sessions are approximately 50 - 90 minutes long.

Costs range from $25.00 - $125.00 per session to over $1,000.00 for an entire treatment program. Many organizations are accept donations and individuals must apply to receive admission.

All sessions follow the law and ethics of Psychotherapy including confidentiality and HIPAA regulations.

Equine Therapy can be a billable service to the following insurance companies: Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and Medicaid. Most all veterans of war, including family members, receive free treatment programs.

Many participants are provided with the opportunity to come back as a volunteer helper. This is very important for those who suffer from both Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or Abuse.

What Does A Neurological, Cognitive, And Occupational Therapy Session Look

Like?

What Does A Neurological, Cognitive, And Occupational Therapy Session Look

Like?First, goals and treatment plans are set in place. Sessions begin with medical, educational, and social updates provided by parent(s).

Participant is dressed in helmet, safety belt, and secured by the team.

Participant is led to grooming area where he/she is supervised while grooming their horse. This assists in the development of speech, planning, and fine or gross motor skills.

Inside the arena, participants are engaged in balance exercises, basketball or hoop games, singing, sensory stimulation integration, and verbal command practice.

The participant dismounts, hugs their horse horse, and thanks staff.

Post-session, the therapist informs parent(s) on the progress demonstrated during the session as well as the carryover needed for the next session.

Research Study I Preliminary Studies Validate Equine

Assisted Psychotherapy for PTSD In War Veterans

“Equine Assisted Psychotherapy for PTSD gained the attention of the United States Department of Affairs, who has provided grants for practitioners to run equine

assisted therapy groups with returning troops from Afghanistan and Iraq. Preliminary results are favorable, suggesting statistically significant rates of change” (Wassom).

“The Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) also evaluated treatment of members of the Georgia National Guard where deployment averaged two

years or more. The study revealed that 100 percent of soldiers who completed therapy had dramatically reduced stress levels” (Wassom).

** Retrieved from www.disaboom.com a leading online resource for information and articles for those living with disabilities. Articles include topics ranging from health

and adaptations in one’s lifestyle.

Statistics On Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder -Resource: (2008, April 17). One In Five Iraq And Afghanistan

Veterans Suffer From PTSD Or Major Depression. Retrieved from Science Daily

Website: http://www.sciencedaily.com

Statistics On Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder -Resource: (2008, April 17). One In Five Iraq And Afghanistan

Veterans Suffer From PTSD Or Major Depression. Retrieved from Science Daily

Website: http://www.sciencedaily.com

• Nearly 20 percent of military service members who have returned from Iraq and Afghanistan, 300,000 in all, report symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder or major depression.

• 19% of returning service members report that they experienced a possible traumatic brain injury while deployed, with 7% reporting both a probable brain injury and current PTSD or major depression.

• Researchers estimate that PTSD and depression among returning service members will cost the nation as much as $6.2 billion in two years following deployment - an amount that includes both medical care and cost for lost productivity and suicide.

• Since October 2001, about 1.6 million troops have deployed to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, with many exposed to prolonged periods of combat-related stress or traumatic events.

• 45% of service members reported seeing deceased or seriously injured non-combatants, and 10% say they were seriously injured themselves.

Statistics Continued....Statistics Continued....• Rates of PTSD and major depression were highest among Army

soldiers, Marines, and those who were no longer on active duty.

• Women, Hispanics, and enlisted personnel all were more likely to report symptoms of PTSD and major depression, but the single best indicator of PTSD and depression was exposure to combat trauma during deployment.

• Just 53% of service members with PTSD or depression sought help from a provider over the past year, and of those who sought care, roughly half got minimal treatment.

The best thing for inside a man is inside of a horse.

- Winston Churchill

The best thing for inside a man is inside of a horse.

- Winston Churchill

Research Study IITreating Children Exposed To Intra-Family

Violence With Equine Therapy:Resource: Schultz, P., Remick-Barlow, G., & Robbins, L. (2006). Equine-assisted psychotherapy: A mental health promotion/intervention modality for children who have experienced intra-family

violence. Health and Social Care In The Community, 15(3) 265-271. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2524.2006.00684.x

Case Study: Substantial numbers of children witness family violence. There is evidence that violence between

parents has adverse effects on the children of the family. These children are at greater risk of both behavioral and mental illness disorders such as: anxiety, anger, depression, suicidal ideation, social withdrawal, low self-esteem, attention deficit disorder, and hyperactivity

disorder. Over an 18 month period (June 2003 - June 2005), 63 children (37 male and 26 female) were referred to psychotherapists for treatment of various conditions by school counselors,

pediatricians, and local therapists. The sample age ranged from 4 - 16 years old. In addition, the therapist incorporated (EAGALA) Equine-Therapy program guidelines in her case sample as a

means to encourage expression of one’s feelings. The 63 children received from 1 to 116 sessions with the average mean of 19 sessions. Those failing to complete at least 6 sessions

were excluded from the case analysis. Sample Study Statistics:

40% of the sampled children had a history of inter-parental violence in the home. 27% had a history of abuse and/or neglect.

20% had a history of sexual abuse.32% had at least one parent with a history of substance abuse.

(Schultz, Remick-Barlow, & Robbins, 2006)

Research Study IITreating Children Exposed To Intra-Family

Violence With Equine Therapy:Resource: Schultz, P., Remick-Barlow, G., & Robbins, L. (2006). Equine-assisted psychotherapy: A mental health promotion/intervention modality for children who have experienced intra-family

violence. Health and Social Care In The Community, 15(3) 265-271. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2524.2006.00684.x

Case Study: Substantial numbers of children witness family violence. There is evidence that violence between

parents has adverse effects on the children of the family. These children are at greater risk of both behavioral and mental illness disorders such as: anxiety, anger, depression, suicidal ideation, social withdrawal, low self-esteem, attention deficit disorder, and hyperactivity

disorder. Over an 18 month period (June 2003 - June 2005), 63 children (37 male and 26 female) were referred to psychotherapists for treatment of various conditions by school counselors,

pediatricians, and local therapists. The sample age ranged from 4 - 16 years old. In addition, the therapist incorporated (EAGALA) Equine-Therapy program guidelines in her case sample as a

means to encourage expression of one’s feelings. The 63 children received from 1 to 116 sessions with the average mean of 19 sessions. Those failing to complete at least 6 sessions

were excluded from the case analysis. Sample Study Statistics:

40% of the sampled children had a history of inter-parental violence in the home. 27% had a history of abuse and/or neglect.

20% had a history of sexual abuse.32% had at least one parent with a history of substance abuse.

(Schultz, Remick-Barlow, & Robbins, 2006)

Case Results: Upon completion of the equine-based therapy sessions, all children

showed an improvement in GAF scores. There was a clear correlation between the number of sessions attended and a statistical increase of

significance in GAF scores in all participants. Overall, the youngest of the subjects showed the greatest of improvements in GAF scores, but it still remains unclear what kind of long-term effects this type of intervention may provide. In sum, it needs to be carefully noted that all the children had an improvement in scores and this supports both the credibility and

validity of equine therapy intervention programs.

GAF = Global Assessment of FunctioningBased on a 1 - 100 Scale.

Functioning based on a level of severe, moderate,and mild.

-Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders -DSM-IV-TR

American Psychological Association

Case Results: Upon completion of the equine-based therapy sessions, all children

showed an improvement in GAF scores. There was a clear correlation between the number of sessions attended and a statistical increase of

significance in GAF scores in all participants. Overall, the youngest of the subjects showed the greatest of improvements in GAF scores, but it still remains unclear what kind of long-term effects this type of intervention may provide. In sum, it needs to be carefully noted that all the children had an improvement in scores and this supports both the credibility and

validity of equine therapy intervention programs.

GAF = Global Assessment of FunctioningBased on a 1 - 100 Scale.

Functioning based on a level of severe, moderate,and mild.

-Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders -DSM-IV-TR

American Psychological Association

Case Study IIIEquine-Assisted Experiential Therapy

During Residential Treatment Resource: Klontz, B., Bivens, A., Leinart, D., & Klontz, T. (2007). The Effectiveness of Equine-Assisted

Experiential Therapy: Results of an Open Clinical Trial. Society and Animals, 15, 257-267. doi: 10.1163/156853007X217195

• An Experiential Therapy study selected 66 volunteer individuals ranging from 23 - 70 years of age at a residential treatment facility located in the southern United States.

• Participants attended 28 hours of (EAET) for 4 1/2 days. The participants worked alongside psychotherapists, equine specialists, and horse handlers.

• Participants completed psychological measures pre-treatment, during therapy, and 6 months post-treatment.

• The treatment model addressed ‘unfinished business.’ In other words, unexpressed feelings that may be linked to past memories carried into present day life in ways that interfere with one’s overall functionality (Klontz, Bivens, Leinart, & Klontz, 2007).

Case Study III Continued...Case Study III Continued...

- Treatment Model: “The present study examined the effectiveness of Equine-Assisted Therapy. EAET combines experiential therapy with specific equine activities to give clients the opportunity to relieve physical distress, live more fully in the present, and change destructive patterns of behavior. In, EAET, horses serve as the catalysts and metaphors to allow clinical issues to arise” (Klontz, et al., 2007).

- Results: Participants showed significant and stable reductions in overall psychological distress and enhancements in psychological well-being from pretest to posttest to follow-up. They reported being a) more oriented in the present; b) better able to live more fully in the here-and-now; c) less burden by regrets, guilt, and resentments; d)less focused on fears related to the future; e) more independent; f) more self-supportive (Kluntz et al., 2007).

- Treatment Model: “The present study examined the effectiveness of Equine-Assisted Therapy. EAET combines experiential therapy with specific equine activities to give clients the opportunity to relieve physical distress, live more fully in the present, and change destructive patterns of behavior. In, EAET, horses serve as the catalysts and metaphors to allow clinical issues to arise” (Klontz, et al., 2007).

- Results: Participants showed significant and stable reductions in overall psychological distress and enhancements in psychological well-being from pretest to posttest to follow-up. They reported being a) more oriented in the present; b) better able to live more fully in the here-and-now; c) less burden by regrets, guilt, and resentments; d)less focused on fears related to the future; e) more independent; f) more self-supportive (Kluntz et al., 2007).

Resources for A Potential Participant or Patient Interested In Equine Therapy

Resources for A Potential Participant or Patient Interested In Equine Therapy

Suggested Literature: The Faraway Horses: The Adventures and Wisdom of One of America’s Most Renowed Horseman By Buck Brannaman (2003)

On the Back of a Horse: Harnessing the Healing Power of the Human-Equine Bond By Claire Dorotik (2011)

Suggested DVD for Viewing: Buck - A Documentary Exploring the Strong Emotions Between Humans and Horses By Buck Brannaman (2011)

Resource Agencies: National Center for Equine-Facilitated Therapy (NCEFT) located in Woodside, CA., www.nceft.org (National and Local Agency)

The Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) located in Santaquin, UT., www.eagala.org (International Agency)

Professional Resources For A Psychotherapist Or Equine Therapist

Professional Resources For A Psychotherapist Or Equine Therapist

Suggested Literature: Harnessing the Power of Equine Assisted Counseling: Adding Animal Assisted Therapy To Your Practice By Kay Sudekum Trotter (2011)

Resource Agencies: American Hippotherapy Association located in Fort Collins, Colorado, www.americanhippotherapy.org (National)

National Center for Equine-Facilitated Therapy (NCEFT) located in Woodside, CA., www.nceft.org (Local) Includes continuing education and workshops for current equine therapists.

Suggested DVD Series for Equine Certification: The following DVD’s can be purchased for

training purposes through (NCEFT) in Woodside, California.

Equine Facilitated Therapy

The Hippotherapy Horse

The Therapy Horse - Moods, Behavior & Instinctive Response

Program Safety & Emergency Procedures

Treatment Options for Patients with Severe Functional Limitations

Discovery News - Benefits of Hippotherapy

How To Get An Equine Certification -

How To Get An Equine Certification -

Due to the increase in demand for Equine Therapists, many organizations across the United States are beginning to offer this therapeutic model in their facilities. During my research, I found a variety of equine certifications, however, many did not require a MFT License as a prerequisite for admittance. The most reputable organization which provided an intensive ‘Behavioral-Approach Equine Certification’ was located in Utah at the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association.

EAGALA’s Program Includes: - Session 1 - 3 Full Days of Training - Developmental Portfolio which is approved by both EAGLA and Equine Board. - 150 Hours of Equine Mentoring - Attend One Annual EAGALA Conference - Session 2- 3 Full Days of Training - A Course in Advanced Training - This certification program is designed to be most applicable to your scope of therapy.

Due to the increase in demand for Equine Therapists, many organizations across the United States are beginning to offer this therapeutic model in their facilities. During my research, I found a variety of equine certifications, however, many did not require a MFT License as a prerequisite for admittance. The most reputable organization which provided an intensive ‘Behavioral-Approach Equine Certification’ was located in Utah at the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association.

EAGALA’s Program Includes: - Session 1 - 3 Full Days of Training - Developmental Portfolio which is approved by both EAGLA and Equine Board. - 150 Hours of Equine Mentoring - Attend One Annual EAGALA Conference - Session 2- 3 Full Days of Training - A Course in Advanced Training - This certification program is designed to be most applicable to your scope of therapy.

Resources

Christian, J., (2005). All creatures great and small: Utilizing equine-assisted therapy to treat eating disorders. Vol 24, No. 1, 65-67. ISSN: 0733-4273.

Courtois, C., & Ford, J. (2009). Treating complex traumatic stress disorders: An evidence-based guide. The Guilford Press, New York, NY.

Klontz, B., Bivens, A., Leinart, D., & Klontz, T. (2007). The effectiveness of equine-assisted experiential therapy: results of an open clinical trial. Society and Animals, 15, 257-267. doi:

10.1163/156853007X217195

Marlo, H., Crisis, trauma, and recovery. (2012). Notre Dame de Namur University, Belmont, CA.

Schultz, P., Remick-Barlow, G., & Robbins, L. (2007). Equine-assisted psychotherapy: A mental health professional/intervention modality for children who have experienced intra-family violence. Health and Social Care in the Community, 15(3), 265-271. doi:10.1111/j.1365-

2524.2006.00684.x

Professional Websites:American Psychological Association: www.apa.org

National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy : www.necft.org

Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International: www.paathint.org

The Equine Association of Growth and Learning Association: www.eagala.org

United States Department of Veteran Affairs: www.va.gov

Resources

Christian, J., (2005). All creatures great and small: Utilizing equine-assisted therapy to treat eating disorders. Vol 24, No. 1, 65-67. ISSN: 0733-4273.

Courtois, C., & Ford, J. (2009). Treating complex traumatic stress disorders: An evidence-based guide. The Guilford Press, New York, NY.

Klontz, B., Bivens, A., Leinart, D., & Klontz, T. (2007). The effectiveness of equine-assisted experiential therapy: results of an open clinical trial. Society and Animals, 15, 257-267. doi:

10.1163/156853007X217195

Marlo, H., Crisis, trauma, and recovery. (2012). Notre Dame de Namur University, Belmont, CA.

Schultz, P., Remick-Barlow, G., & Robbins, L. (2007). Equine-assisted psychotherapy: A mental health professional/intervention modality for children who have experienced intra-family violence. Health and Social Care in the Community, 15(3), 265-271. doi:10.1111/j.1365-

2524.2006.00684.x

Professional Websites:American Psychological Association: www.apa.org

National Center for Equine Facilitated Therapy : www.necft.org

Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International: www.paathint.org

The Equine Association of Growth and Learning Association: www.eagala.org

United States Department of Veteran Affairs: www.va.gov