The Healing Power of Equine Therapy
BY: Sharon Fitness for GOOD.
Equine therapy, also known as equine-assisted therapy (EAT), has been gaining popularity worldwide as a holistic approach to improving mental health and physical well-being. By working with horses, individuals are able to engage in therapeutic exercises that promote emotional healing, personal growth, and improved motor skills. This unique form of therapy is particularly beneficial for those dealing with trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and developmental disorders like autism. In Australia, equine therapy is becoming an increasingly recognised and valuable option for those seeking an alternative path to recovery.
What is Equine Therapy?
Equine therapy involves therapeutic activities with horses, ranging from riding exercises to grooming and leading the animal. The process is typically guided by licensed therapists or professionals trained in both mental health care and equine management. Horses, with their keen sense of emotional awareness and calm nature, offer a reflective space for participants to process emotions, develop trust, and build confidence.
Horses have an instinctual ability to mirror human emotions, making them ideal partners in therapy. When individuals interact with horses, they often find themselves addressing their own anxieties, frustrations, or emotions in a way that is non-judgmental and supportive. This can lead to breakthroughs in self-awareness and emotional regulation.
Benefits of Equine Therapy
Equine therapy has numerous benefits for a variety of mental health and developmental conditions, including:
- Emotional Regulation: Horses are sensitive to emotions, and working with them helps individuals identify, express, and manage their feelings in a safe and non-verbal manner.
- Building Confidence: Successfully handling a large and powerful animal like a horse can significantly boost self-esteem and confidence, especially in individuals who have experienced trauma or have low self-worth.
- Improved Social Skills: The interaction between horse, therapist, and participant fosters communication and trust, which can translate to improved relationships with others.
- Reduced Anxiety and Stress: The calming presence of horses and the natural environment they live in provides a peaceful setting, helping individuals relax and reduce their anxiety levels.
- Physical Benefits: Riding and working with horses can improve motor skills, coordination, and balance, making equine therapy an excellent option for those with physical disabilities.
- Trauma Recovery: Many people dealing with PTSD, especially veterans and victims of abuse, find equine therapy helpful in regaining a sense of safety and emotional balance.
Australian Equine Therapy Groups
Australia is home to several well-established equine therapy centres offering tailored programs for people of all ages, backgrounds, and needs. Here are some notable organisations:
- Equine Assisted Therapy Australia
Equine Assisted Therapy Australia offers a range of programs aimed at improving mental health and personal development. Their services include individual and group therapy sessions using horses to facilitate emotional growth, trauma recovery, and stress management. They have locations in several states across Australia. - Horses Helping Humans (HHH)
Based in Victoria, Horses Helping Humans is a non-profit organisation that provides equine-assisted learning programs for young people and adults facing mental health challenges, learning disabilities, and social isolation. Their holistic approach encourages self-discovery and positive behavioural changes through horse interaction. - Riding for the Disabled Australia (RDA)
RDA is a national organisation that focuses on using horse-riding as therapy for people with disabilities. They provide both equine-assisted learning and physical therapy sessions, helping individuals improve their physical coordination, balance, and social skills. RDA operates centres across Australia, making their services accessible to many communities. - Equine Encounters Australia
Equine Encounters Australia provides equine-assisted learning experiences in New South Wales. Their programs focus on personal development, team-building, and improving mental health. Participants engage in groundwork exercises with horses, fostering personal growth, leadership skills, and emotional resilience.
How to Get Involved
If you’re interested in exploring equine therapy in Australia, it’s important to contact a reputable centre that aligns with your specific needs or the needs of a loved one. Most equine therapy centres provide tailored programs for individuals dealing with a range of issues, including mental health concerns, disabilities, and emotional trauma.
Many organisations offer introductory sessions to help participants become familiar with the process and develop trust with their equine partners. You can visit the websites of the above organisations to learn more about their services, fees, and locations, or to book an introductory session.
Equine therapy offers a powerful and holistic approach to healing, using the natural connection between humans and horses to promote emotional and physical well-being. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, PTSD, or developmental challenges, equine-assisted therapy can be a valuable and effective path to recovery. Australia’s growing network of equine therapy centres provides accessible programs that help individuals of all backgrounds rediscover confidence, trust, and emotional balance.
ADVENTURES OF DALLY AND SPANKY, the story of the incredible bond between a pony called Spanky and her Jack Russell mate, Dally is available to watch now on GOOD. Watch it HERE.
DESTINED TO RIDE is the story of a young girl and her friend who team up against two local boys on an epic horseback riding adventure in the country and is available to watch on GOOD. Watch it HERE
Feature images and photos from facebook pages and websites of Riding for the Disabled, Equine Assisted Therapy, Equine Encounters Australia and Horses Helping Humans (links above) and Arthouse Studio on Pexels