The field of equine-assisted therapy (EAT) has grown significantly over the last two decades and is currently implemented with a wide variety of populations. Recognition of the therapeutic potential of the horse–human relationship had led to the development of EAT models that may include horseback riding, groundwork with the horses, or a combination of both. Mental health and other helping professionals around the world apply these models in diverse settings. Despite the growth in EAT as a unique therapeutic approach and notwithstanding the growing body of research assessing the impact of the horse–human relationship on the therapeutic process, there is a scarcity of literature that addresses EAT as it relates to the professionals who are providing EAT services. This gap relates to issues of professional training, the impact of EAT on mental health professionals, perceptions and experiences of service providers as they navigate the field, and finally some of the barriers related to EAT treatment. This chapter addresses these issues following a brief discussion of EAT, its uniqueness, and its benefits.

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Equine-Assisted Therapy Development: Methodology and Rationale

  • Merav Moshe-Grodofsky

摘要

The field of equine-assisted therapy (EAT) has grown significantly over the last two decades and is currently implemented with a wide variety of populations. Recognition of the therapeutic potential of the horse–human relationship had led to the development of EAT models that may include horseback riding, groundwork with the horses, or a combination of both. Mental health and other helping professionals around the world apply these models in diverse settings. Despite the growth in EAT as a unique therapeutic approach and notwithstanding the growing body of research assessing the impact of the horse–human relationship on the therapeutic process, there is a scarcity of literature that addresses EAT as it relates to the professionals who are providing EAT services. This gap relates to issues of professional training, the impact of EAT on mental health professionals, perceptions and experiences of service providers as they navigate the field, and finally some of the barriers related to EAT treatment. This chapter addresses these issues following a brief discussion of EAT, its uniqueness, and its benefits.