Clinical Practice of Equine-Assisted Therapy: Including Horses in Human Healthcare

The Clinical Practice of Equine-Assisted Therapy is a comprehensive resource for professionals interested in incorporating horses in therapy, covering key issues such as terminology, scope of practice, competency recommendations, horse care ethics, and clinical practice considerations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 05 December 2017
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Clinical Practice of Equine-Assisted Therapy is a groundbreaking work that seamlessly weaves together theory, research, and practical approaches to address a rapidly emerging need among physical, occupational, speech, and mental health professionals who are eager to incorporate horses into their therapeutic practices. Extensively researched and referencing over 300 peer-reviewed journal articles, this comprehensive book delves into core topics such as terminology, scope of practice, competency recommendations, horse care ethics, and clinical practice considerations. As a vital resource for professionals seeking to adopt a best-practices approach to equine-assisted therapy, this text offers invaluable insights and practical guidance for those who wish to harness the power of horses to enhance client outcomes.

The use of horses in therapy has gained increasing popularity in recent years, as research has demonstrated its therapeutic benefits for a wide range of conditions. Equine-assisted therapy (EAT) is a form of therapy that involves working with horses and is designed to address physical, occupational, speech, and mental health needs. EAT is based on the principles of animal-assisted therapy, which have been used for centuries to help people improve their physical and emotional well-being.

One of the key benefits of EAT is its ability to provide a unique and immersive therapeutic experience. Horses are natural leaders and have a calming presence that can help reduce stress and anxiety. They also have a keen sense of intuition and can respond to the needs of their handlers in a way that is difficult to replicate with other animals. This makes EAT an effective tool for helping people with a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and autism.

In addition to its therapeutic benefits, EAT has also been shown to have positive effects on physical health. Studies have shown that riding horses can improve balance, coordination, and strength, as well as reduce pain and inflammation. This is particularly beneficial for people with physical disabilities or chronic pain conditions, as it allows them to engage in physical activity in a way that is enjoyable and accessible.

EAT is also an effective tool for addressing occupational and speech therapy needs. Horses can be used to help people develop their fine motor skills, improve their balance and coordination, and develop their communication and social skills. For example, people with speech disorders may use horses to practice their speech patterns and develop their vocalization skills.

Despite the many benefits of EAT, there are also challenges that need to be addressed. One of the biggest challenges is ensuring the safety and well-being of both the horses and the clients. Horses are large and powerful animals, and they can be unpredictable and dangerous if not handled properly. Therefore, it is essential that EAT providers have a thorough understanding of horse behavior and training, as well as the proper safety equipment and procedures.

Another challenge is finding the right training and certification for EAT providers. There are currently no standardized training programs or certification requirements for EAT providers, which can make it difficult for professionals to ensure that they are providing high-quality and safe services. However, there are several organizations that offer training and certification programs for EAT providers, including the Equine Assisted Therapy Association (EATA) and the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH).

In conclusion, the Clinical Practice of Equine-Assisted Therapy is a groundbreaking work that provides a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to equine-assisted therapy. By bridging theory, research, and practical methods, this book offers valuable insights and practical guidance for physical, occupational, speech, and mental health professionals who are interested in incorporating horses into their therapeutic practices. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out in this field, this book is an essential resource for anyone who wishes to harness the power of horses to enhance client outcomes.

Weight: 364g
Dimension: 152 x 227 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138674639