Horses have long been a symbol of strength and grace — and now, they’re helping people recover from addiction. Equine therapy (also known as equine-assisted therapy, hippotherapy, or horse-assisted therapy) is a therapeutic intervention that involves using horses as a tool for healing. As a type of animal assisted intervention, equine therapy is used for therapeutic purposes to support mental health and addiction recovery.
This growing field in addiction recovery leverages the healing potential in human-animal interactions and how this can be used to deal with the unique challenges associated with substance use disorders (SUD). Horseback riding has historically been recognized as one of the earliest forms of animal assisted therapy, and today, there are other forms of animal assisted interventions involving different animals, such as dogs and pigs, for various therapeutic purposes.
At PCP we’re dedicated to keeping readers abreast on the latest trends in addiction recovery. Here we’ll explore the advantages of equine therapy, what the research on this technique suggests and what you should keep in mind if you’re interested in this form of addiction treatment.
What Is Equine Therapy?
Equine therapy is a structured therapeutic approach that uses interactions with horses to support individuals facing emotional, physical, or behavioural challenges. It is a widely used tool in mental health treatment and addiction recovery, as well as in physical or occupational therapy. These activities are often integrated into clinical practice, where equine-assisted interventions are applied in real-world settings to address mental health and rehabilitation needs.
These activities may include grooming, feeding, leading, or riding horses under professional supervision. These sessions help people in recovery build trust, develop emotional regulation, improve communication, and gain problem-solving skills. Equine therapy also provides physical benefits, such as improvements in motor skills, making it especially suitable for individuals with physical limitations who may not be able to participate in traditional recreational activities. The bond formed with the horse fosters empathy, patience, and a sense of responsibility, all of which aid in the healing process.
So who is this form of therapy for?
Who Can Benefit From Equine Therapy?
Equine therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of individuals, including those with anxiety, depression, PTSD, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorders. It is also helpful for individuals recovering from trauma, managing stress, or improving social, emotional, and communication skills. In addition, equine therapy has shown promise for people with mental disorders and eating disorders, providing support for recovery from these complex conditions. Equine therapy has also been studied as a complementary treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder, particularly in individuals who have experienced a traumatic event.
Certain forms of equine therapy are also used for people with conditions affecting the muscles and nerves like cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, and stroke-related impairments.
So how exactly does this translate into recovery from addiction?
Equine Assisted Therapy for Mental Health and Addiction Recovery
Equine-assisted therapy is an effective adjunct that can be used in individuals recovering from substance use disorders as well as associated mental health conditions like anxiety and depression which often coexist with substance use disorder.
During each session, a certified equine specialist and licensed therapist guides the patient through various forms of interactions such as horse grooming, feeding, care, and sometimes supervised riding. Equine therapy is considered a form of experiential therapy, where clients actively participate in the treatment process. A mental health professional is involved in overseeing the therapy to ensure safety and therapeutic effectiveness.
This process helps develop the essential tools needed for successfully reintegrating into society and maintaining long-term sobriety. This includes problem-solving skills, impulse control, patience, self-confidence, communication skills, and how to interact successfully within a group.
How does this form of therapy work?
Why Does Equine Therapy Work?
Humans have a deep connection with horses dating back thousands of years. Over time both species have developed a mutually beneficial relationship built on trust and an instinctive understanding of nonverbal cues. Horses are surprisingly emotionally intelligent animals and respond better to emotional cues than many people realise. As prey animals and social animals, horses are highly attuned to human emotions and group dynamics, which makes them especially effective partners in therapy.
Also, working with horses provides immediate feedback that group therapy might not. This allows those in recovery to actively engage with these positive or negative cues as they occur. The personality traits of both horses and clients can influence the therapeutic relationship and outcomes, shaping the direction and effectiveness of each session.
Equine therapy also promotes self-confidence by giving patients a sense of being useful, needed, accepted, and in control of their immediate situation. This sense of responsibility is especially helpful since SUD and even addiction recovery can often create a feeling of helplessness or loss of control. Additionally, equine therapy encourages clients to focus on the present moment, helping to reduce anxiety and foster mindfulness.
What Does the Research Say?
Recent research and systematic reviews have evaluated the effectiveness of equine therapy, providing evidence for its role in mental health treatment and recovery. These studies often utilize comprehensive literature searches in resources such as the national library, and involve professionals from clinical psychology to ensure rigorous methodology and interpretation.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that equine-assisted therapy can improve the overall recovery process and is an important treatment adjunct. But what does the research say?
Studies have shown that starting and successfully completing an addiction treatment programme is more likely to lead to long-term sobriety. Adjunctive therapies like horse therapy were found to improve the rates of treatment completion among individuals undergoing recovery. Some of these studies have been identified through systematic reviews and comprehensive searches in resources like the national library, with clinical psychology professionals playing a key role in conducting and interpreting the research.
Evidence suggests that some people respond more favourably to the outdoor, non-verbal environment of equine therapy when compared to indoor, verbal therapies such as group therapy or psychotherapy. Recent research highlights the involvement of clinical psychology in developing and assessing these therapeutic approaches.
Research has also shown that equine therapy fostered a more positive self-construct and emotional support, with some participants stating it was the best part of the recovery process. Systematic reviews and recent research continue to validate these findings, emphasizing the contribution of clinical psychology professionals.
Different Types of Equine Therapy for Addiction Recovery
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy: This is a basic form of equine therapy that involves various forms of interactions with horses like grooming, feeding, and training under supervision. This helps individuals undergoing recovery from addiction to deal with the emotional, mental, and physical aspects of recovery through immediate non-verbal feedback.
Therapeutic Horsemanship: This is a form of equine-assisted therapy that involves supervised horse riding under the guidance of certified instructors. The close interaction and rhythmic motion of the horse offer several therapeutic benefits, especially to people with disabilities involving posture, tone, balance, or sensory function.
Therapeutic Horseback Riding and Therapeutic Horseback: These animal assisted therapies focus on horseback riding as a therapeutic intervention, particularly benefiting individuals with autism and those requiring occupational or physical therapy. Therapeutic horseback riding helps improve motor skills, balance, and behavioral understanding through structured animal assisted interventions.
Equine Assisted Learning: This structured program uses horses to facilitate skill development, personal growth, and professional training. Equine assisted learning is often used for team-building, leadership, and emotional regulation, providing tailored lessons for individuals or groups.
Animal Assisted Therapy and Animal Assisted Therapies: Equine therapy is one form of animal assisted therapy, which also includes other animal assisted interventions such as canine assisted therapy and the use of therapy dogs. These therapies are used in diverse settings to address mental health conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression, and to promote emotional regulation and stress reduction.
Organizations such as PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International), Therapeutic Horsemanship International, and the Handicapped Association have played key roles in the development, certification, and advocacy of therapeutic riding programs, ensuring high standards and supporting the growth of animal assisted therapies.
The Role of the Therapist
In equine assisted therapy, the therapist is at the heart of the therapeutic process, guiding clients through meaningful interactions with horses to support mental health treatment and personal growth. Working closely with an equine specialist, the therapist designs therapy sessions tailored to each individual’s needs, ensuring a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions and behaviours. Through equine assisted psychotherapy, therapists help clients develop self awareness, improve communication skills, and build trust—skills that are essential for lasting recovery and well-being. By integrating horses into the therapy process, mental health professionals can offer a unique approach that complements traditional therapy, making the journey toward healing more engaging and effective. The therapist’s expertise ensures that each session is purposeful, helping clients gain insights and develop coping strategies that support their mental health.
The Non-Judgmental and Unbiased Nature of Horses
One of the most powerful aspects of equine assisted therapy is the non-judgmental and unbiased nature of horses. Unlike people, horses approach every interaction without preconceived notions or expectations, creating a safe space for clients during therapy sessions. This acceptance allows individuals to open up, practice vulnerability, and share their true feelings without fear of criticism or rejection. The calming presence of horses helps reduce stress and anxiety, fostering a positive environment for therapy. By engaging with these gentle animals, clients can experience genuine acceptance, which is often a crucial step in building trust and improving mental health. The unique ability of horses to offer unbiased companionship makes them ideal partners in the therapeutic process, supporting clients as they work through challenges and develop emotional resilience.
Feedback and Mirroring: How Horses Reflect Our Emotions
Horses are remarkably sensitive to body language and non-verbal communication, making them natural mirrors for human emotions in equine assisted therapy. During therapy sessions, horses respond to a client’s emotional state—whether it’s anxiety, calmness, or uncertainty—by reflecting these feelings through their own behavior. This immediate, non-verbal feedback helps clients develop self awareness and recognize patterns in their own responses. For those who find verbal communication challenging, working with horses offers a powerful way to process emotions and gain insight into personal growth. The mirroring effect encourages clients to reflect on their feelings and behaviors in a supportive setting, leading to improved emotional regulation and mental health. By observing how horses react, clients can better understand themselves and make meaningful changes in their lives.
Limitations of Equine Therapy
Unfortunately, equine therapy might not be suitable for everyone. People with severe allergies or a fear of animals will find it hard to participate in treatment sessions.
The cost and accessibility of the service might also pose an issue, as equine therapy is not widely available in certain areas.
Equine-assisted therapy requires certified professionals and trained horses, which restricts availability and drives up costs.
Disease control measures are essential in equine therapy settings to protect both clients and animals from potential health risks.
Despite its effectiveness, it’s important to note that equine therapy was designed to complement, not replace traditional treatment for substance use disorder.
If you are considering whether to explore equine assisted therapy, consult a healthcare provider first, especially if you have specific health concerns.
Cost and Accessibility
While equine assisted therapy offers unique benefits for mental health treatment, it’s important to consider the cost and accessibility of these services. Depending on the location, type of therapy, and qualifications of the therapist, prices can vary, and some programs may be more expensive than traditional therapy options. However, many organizations are committed to making equine assisted therapy accessible, offering sliding scale fees, scholarships, or financial assistance. In some cases, insurance providers may cover equine assisted therapy as part of mental health services, so it’s worth exploring coverage options. Researching local programs and reaching out directly can help clients find the right fit for their needs and budget. By exploring equine assisted therapy, individuals can access a supportive community and a distinctive approach to mental health that complements traditional therapy, enhancing overall well-being and recovery outcomes.
How to Choose a Qualified Equine Therapy Program
Equine-assisted therapy is a great way to improve your recovery journey. However, you must find reliable, safe, and effective programmes with a track record of safety, professionalism and effective treatment strategies.
Here’s how to make sure you find the best hippotherapy programme for your recovery journey.
Check their certifications
Here are some of the professional certifications you should look for if shopping for equine therapy specialists in the UK.
LEAP Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy & Learning Certification
Professional Association for Equine Facilitated Therapy (PAEFT)
Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Coaching Qualifications
Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association Certification
HorseBoy Method Certification (UK)
Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Therapeutic Riding
Ask relevant questions
Here are important questions to ask before enrolling in an equine-assisted therapy program:
What type of equine therapy do they offer?
Is the facility licensed and insured?
What certifications or credentials do the staff hold?
What is the staff-to-client ratio?
Do they perform individual assessments before starting?
What safety measures are put in place during sessions?
How are the horses selected and trained for therapy work?
What health conditions or limitations do you accommodate?
Are sessions conducted indoors or outdoors?
What therapeutic goals do they focus on?
Is a licensed mental health or physical therapy professional involved?
How long is each session, and how many sessions are recommended?
What are the costs, and is funding or insurance available?
Do they offer trial sessions or observation options?
Reach Out Today
Equine therapy offers a meaningful and often transformative supplement to traditional addiction treatment. Through structured interaction with horses, individuals in recovery can rebuild trust, gain emotional insight, and develop key life skills that support long-term recovery.
For those drawn to nature, animals, or non-verbal therapeutic experiences, equine therapy may provide the healing connection they’ve been searching for.
Interested in learning more about equine-assisted therapy? Don’t hesitate to reach out to PCP today for more information.
