Equine-Assisted Services
Equine-assisted services (EAS) are a range of services that use horses to benefit people with physical, cognitive, behavioral, or emotional challenges. These services are broadly categorized into therapy, learning, and horsemanship, and they aim to improve health, wellness, and personal development through activities like grooming, leading, or sometimes riding, under the guidance of trained professionals. Benefits can include improved emotional regulation, self-confidence, and physical strength.
Types of services
A holistic treatment method for mental and emotional well-being, led by a licensed mental health professional and an equine specialist. It uses interactions with horses to address issues like PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL):
Focuses on educational and personal development goals, such as improving soft skills and leadership.
A type of EAS that can be used to improve physical skills like strength, balance, and coordination.
Who it helps
Individuals with mental and emotional challenges, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
People with physical or cognitive disabilities, and those with emotional challenges.
Veterans and active service members.
Groups focused on personal development and leadership.
How it works
EAS often involves non-riding activities like grooming, feeding, and leading the horse, which builds a relationship and allows for non-verbal communication and emotional growth.
Licensed professionals may also incorporate horses into other therapies, such as occupational, physical, speech-language pathology, counseling, and psychotherapy.
The horse acts as a "real-time reflector," providing immediate feedback on a person's emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.