Using horses as part of Emotional Therapy Programmes

Horses were originally seen as working animals, used in transportation and on the likes of farms. Given a horses size, strength and intelligence they were heavily relied upon to pull ploughs for field work and carriages for those wealthy enough to have the luxury of such transportation. Over the years, horses have been continually used as ‘working’ animals including during the war and although many no longer work in labour intensive jobs, they still have a vital role to play in some working environments – specifically horse therapy.

Horse therapy or equine assisted therapy can be used as part of a therapy treatment to help those with learning disabilities, behavioural difficulties, mental health issues and as part of rehabilitation after a severe injury. According to Equine Psychotherapy, the treatment can be used to promote emotional growth. In its basic stages, the therapy teaches how to move a horse in a calm and gentle manner as well as tacking a horse and feeding or grooming them. Little work is usually emphasised on actually riding the animal. There has been much evidence to support the benefits of equine therapy including building confidence, trust and improving social skills as well as improving communication skills and self-acceptance. Building a relationship with a horse is seen as a ‘healing process’ and with that brings great opportunities to better a person’s outlook.

As said horses are seen to be very therapeutic animals and with that have many positive effects on those who partake in such programmes. These animals are used because of their emotional intelligence. They too fear, act on instincts, change their moods and show very definite personality traits. With these characteristics, horses are able to show kindness and love as well as show fear or uncertainty in situations that they do not like. It is these changing emotions that can allow participants of such therapy treatments the chance to better understand emotional needs and how to act in specific situations.

This type of therapy has grown in interest in recent years and has picked up high acclaim for the positive effects that it can have on a person’s life. As part of the therapy, the animals need to be looked after including grooming and feeding as well as the everyday chores required when looking after a horse. American barn units could help to offer a safe environment for such interactions. These outbuildings are equipped with stable areas as well as additional space for grooming and storage space for tack and feed. American barns may help in such therapy treatments by giving a familiar and calming environment for the animal whilst offering the best facilities to participants for the best possible outcome.

For additional information on American barn out building, please speak to a member of the Jon William Stables team by calling 01380 850 965.