Animal Assisted Therapy
Animal Assisted Therapy-especially for treating Stress or Anxiety
Interacting with animals has been shown to decrease cortisol (the stress hormone) and lower blood pressure causing a relaxation response.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY
There are many proven health benefits associated with therapeutic interventions done with service animals.
These benefits are both physical and psychological and include:
Decreased symptoms of Anxiety and Depression
Lower blood pressure
Less loneliness
Improved cardiovascular health
Diminished overall physical pain
Equine therapy, also known as Equine-Assisted Therapy (EAT), is a treatment that includes equine activities in order to promote physical and emotional growth in people suffering from Anxiety, Autism, Dementia, Depression, Developmental Delays, Behavioral/Abuse issues, Grief and Loss, Mood Disorders as well as many other mental health problems. Equine Therapy can help someone build confidence, self-esteem, communication, trust, perspective, social skills, impulse control, learn boundaries and enhance mood. Since horses have similar social and responsive behaviors as humans, it is easy for clients to create a connection with horses.
Often the therapist leading the session will set goals for the client to complete, such as leading the horse to a designated area or putting a halter on the horse. The client will complete the task to the best of their ability and then discuss the thought process, ideas and problem solving used to complete the task. Discussing what the client is doing at a given time allows them to improve language skills. Listening to the instructor helps improve the individuals ability to listen and follow directions, ask questions, etc. Not only is there communication between the client and the therapist but also between the client and the horse. This becomes especially helpful for those who are struggling with anxiety or depression as they can be dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. This activity encourages a person to be focused and present in the moment.
If this is something you are interested in, please contact me with any questions.