Horses are used in different types of equine therapies to help people with various emotional, mental, or emotional problems. In case you didn’t know equine therapy is Equine Therapy (also referred to as Horse Therapy) is a form of experiential therapy that includes interactions between patients and horses. It is normally done in combination with other forms of therapy and is not a replacement for more traditional techniques. Below we are presenting you 4 of the most popular types of equine therapy currently used all over the world.
1 – Therapeutic Horseback Riding
Therapeutic horseback riding is done by a riding instructor who trains how to control a horse while riding. It’s used as an exercise to recover a disabled individual’s balance, posture, self-confidence, and well-being. The individual is primarily taught how to work with the horse on the ground and then he learns how to ride it.
2 – Hippotherapy
Hippotherapy is just like therapeutic horseback riding but it usually also involves a career therapist, physiotherapist, or a language therapist. The different movements of the horse require the rider to use various postural responses, therefore reinforcing the muscles of the rider.
3 – Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL)
By interacting with horses in EAL programs, individuals develop self-awareness, which is important in order to show models of behavior and give the individuals the chance to think in a new way. They gain self-confidence by learning how to work with such large and strong creatures.
4 – Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP)
EAP is a form of therapy who uses horses to treat psychological problems. Some programs may include riding, but most appropriate basis with horses, such as grooming, and ground exercises. Mental health specialists use horses to help their clients learn about themselves and discuss emotions and behaviors.
