Equine-assisted therapy is a unique and powerful approach to healing that involves interactions between humans and horses. Though it may seem unconventional at first, this type of therapy has gained increasing attention for its ability to support mental health, emotional well-being and behavioral growth in both children and adults.
By engaging with horses under the guidance of trained professionals, individuals can build trust, develop emotional awareness and process difficult experiences in a nonverbal, embodied way. Whether you’ve heard of “horse therapy” or you’re exploring alternative mental health treatments, here’s what to know about equine-assisted therapy and how it can help.
What Is Equine-Assisted Therapy?
Equine-assisted therapy (EAT) is a broad term that refers to therapeutic practices involving horses. It’s typically facilitated by a licensed mental health professional and an equine specialist, often in a controlled setting such as a stable, ranch or therapeutic riding center.
Equine-assisted therapy doesn’t necessarily involve horseback riding. In many cases, clients interact with horses through grooming, leading, feeding or observing them. These activities are structured to reflect psychological challenges and promote self-awareness, communication and emotional regulation.
There are several types of equine-assisted therapy, including:
- Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP). A licensed therapist guides mental health treatment using interactions with horses to explore thoughts, behaviors and feelings.
- Equine-assisted learning (EAL). Focused more on skill-building (like leadership or communication) than therapy.
- Therapeutic riding: While more physical in nature, this form of riding instruction can also offer emotional and psychological benefits.
How Equine Therapy Works
Horses are highly sensitive animals. They react to human emotions and body language with immediate, honest feedback. This makes them ideal therapeutic partners, especially for clients who struggle with traditional talk therapy or have difficulty expressing themselves verbally.
Therapists use the client’s interaction with the horse to gain insight into emotional and behavioral patterns. For example, if a person tries to control the horse too forcefully or becomes frustrated when the horse doesn’t respond, these reactions can mirror real-life interpersonal challenges. Through reflection, the therapist helps the client process these moments and develop new coping strategies.
Because horses don’t judge, criticize or hold grudges, they offer a safe space for clients to explore trust, vulnerability and emotional expression.
Mental Health Benefits of Equine-Assisted Therapy
Equine-assisted therapy is used to address a range of mental health concerns, including:
- Anxiety and panic disorders
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Substance use and addiction recovery
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Behavioral issues in youth
- Attachment disorders
- Grief, trauma and emotional dysregulation
Some of the core benefits include:
- Improved emotional regulation. Working with horses helps individuals slow down and become more aware of their emotions and behaviors. Horses respond best to calm, consistent energy, which encourages clients to practice mindfulness and emotional balance.
- Increased self-awareness. Because horses react in real time, clients receive honest feedback about how they’re showing up emotionally. This can help people identify triggers, build insight and shift unhelpful patterns.
- Trust and relationship-building. Many people with trauma or anxiety struggle to build healthy relationships. Forming a connection with a horse can lay the groundwork for learning trust, empathy and communication in a nonthreatening way.
- Confidence and empowerment. Successfully leading, caring for or connecting with a large animal like a horse builds a sense of accomplishment. For those who feel powerless in their daily lives, these experiences can restore a sense of agency and control.
- Nonverbal expression. For individuals who find it difficult to talk about their emotions or past trauma, equine-assisted therapy provides a nonverbal outlet for processing feelings.
Who Might Benefit From Equine Therapy?
Equine therapy can be especially helpful for people who:
- Struggle with traditional talk therapy
- Have difficulty trusting others or forming relationships
- Are recovering from trauma, abuse or neglect
- Experience emotional dysregulation or explosive behaviors
- Live with chronic stress, anxiety or low self-esteem
- Want to develop confidence, patience and emotional resilience
This therapy is used with children, teens, adults and even families or groups. It’s commonly found in settings like trauma treatment centers, addiction recovery programs and special education environments.
What a Typical Session Looks Like
Equine therapy sessions usually take place outdoors or in a barnlike environment. Sessions may involve:
- Observing horse behavior and body language
- Grooming, feeding or walking the horse
- Completing specific tasks or challenges involving the horse
- Reflecting on emotional reactions with a therapist
- Journaling or sharing insights from the experience
Sessions are guided and supervised for safety. Clients aren’t expected to have prior experience with horses, and most programs ensure the environment is welcoming and accessible.
Is Equine Therapy Evidence-Based?
While more research is still needed, growing evidence suggests that equine-assisted therapy can be beneficial for mental health. Studies have found reductions in PTSD symptoms, anxiety and depression, especially in populations who are otherwise treatment-resistant.
Organizations like the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH International) and the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) provide structure, certification and ethical guidelines to ensure safety and efficacy in this field.
Accessing Equine-Assisted Therapy
Equine therapy isn’t always covered by insurance, especially if it’s not provided by a licensed mental health professional. However, many equine therapy centers operate on sliding scales or offer scholarships. Some nonprofit organizations also provide equine services for veterans, youth or trauma survivors.
If you’re interested in trying equine-assisted therapy:
- Look for programs affiliated with PATH or EAGALA.
- Ask if sessions are led by licensed therapists or credentialed equine specialists.
- Make sure the program is equipped to address your specific mental health needs.
- Consider combining equine therapy with other treatments like talk therapy or medication for a comprehensive approach.
Final Thoughts
Equine-assisted therapy offers a unique hands-on approach to healing. By partnering with horses, individuals can explore emotional patterns, rebuild trust and gain insight in a calm, grounded setting. While not a replacement for all forms of therapy, it can be a powerful addition to a holistic mental health care plan.
If you’re exploring therapy options or feel stuck in traditional treatment models, equine therapy might offer a refreshing path forward. As always, the Mental Health Hotline is available 24-7 to help you learn about your options and connect with services in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. Therapeutic riding focuses on physical coordination and horseback riding skills, often for people with disabilities. Equine-assisted therapy is a mental health intervention led by a therapist and doesn’t always involve riding.
No experience is necessary. Equine-assisted therapy is designed to be accessible to people of all comfort levels.
Yes. Many trauma survivors find equine therapy helpful because it promotes nonverbal processing, emotional regulation and trust-building.
Sessions are guided by trained professionals, and horses are selected for their gentle temperaments. Safety is a top priority, and accommodations can be made for different abilities.
You can search directories from PATH International or EAGALA, or call the Mental Health Hotline for help finding nearby services that match your needs.
