Equine-assisted psychotherapy in clinical practice

J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv. 2010 Oct;48(10):30-4. doi: 10.3928/02793695-20100831-08. Epub 2010 Sep 22.

Abstract

Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) is an approach in which horses are an integral part of the therapeutic process. This article provides an overview of EAP, including a brief historical perspective, key definitions, and review of pertinent literature. Benefits of the approach are presented, from the standpoint of field observations, client self-reports, and formal research articles. Rather than offer a comprehensive literature review, this article is intended to help non-EAP practitioners become more familiar with the approach.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Attitude to Health
  • Equine-Assisted Therapy / education
  • Equine-Assisted Therapy / methods*
  • Equine-Assisted Therapy / trends
  • Horses / psychology
  • Human-Animal Bond
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders / psychology
  • Mental Disorders / therapy*
  • Patient Selection
  • Problem-Based Learning
  • Psychiatric Nursing
  • Self Concept
  • Treatment Outcome