Horses, known for their sensitivity to human emotions, provide immediate, non-judgmental feedback to individuals, helping them build essential skills such as trust, empathy, communication, and emotional regulation. These sessions are carefully supervised and tailored to each client’s needs, incorporating activities such as assisted riding, grooming, feeding, and other care routines.
Equine therapy complements traditional treatment approaches by providing experiential learning opportunities that are particularly effective for addressing mental health conditions, including:
- Anxiety: Horses help individuals remain present and grounded, reducing feelings of fear and worry.
- Depression: The responsibility of caring for a horse and the connection formed can instill purpose and positivity.
- Grief: Interaction with horses offers a calming presence and can be a source of comfort during periods of loss.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): The predictable and gentle nature of horses helps individuals feel safe, fostering trust and reducing symptoms of hypervigilance.
Through this hands-on, interactive experience, clients develop greater selfawareness, self-confidence, and coping strategies, all of which are essential for long-term recovery. Equine therapy at Follow Through House is designed to support clients as they navigate their personal healing journeys, adding a rich and meaningful dimension to their overall rehabilitation experience.
