Equine Assisted Therapy For Addiction Treatment
please note: equine therapy is optional, and would be paid for by the client separately
At Inspire Malibu, we know the importance that healthy and therapeutic activities play in treating addiction. Our drug and alcohol rehab facility, set among the tranquil Santa Monica Mountains in Malibu, California, offers many such activities, including Equine Therapy for addiction treatment as part of our science and evidence-based approach. Many of our patients have commented that equine therapy offered a new experience for them and was one of the most rewarding therapies of their rehab treatment.
While it is just one part of an overall treatment plan, equine therapy can help patients examine the underlying emotional, family and social causes of their substance abuse issues. This treatment has also been shown to enhance a sense of well being in clients that have undergone therapy.
What is Equine Therapy?
Our experts in Animal Assisted Therapy (ATT) safely guide patients, even those who’ve never been around horses before, through equine assisted activities. These therapeutic activities vary based on each individuals needs, but can include:
- Horseback riding
- Feeding
- Grooming
- Exercising horses
- Regularly being in the presence of horses
Patients learn about the unique behaviors and needs of these graceful animals, and by interacting with horses in a serene setting, they gain new cognitive and social skills.
8 Disorders and 3 Activities that Equine Therapy Benefits
Equine assisted therapy for addiction allows a person to safely care for these gentle yet powerful animals. This simple, but rewarding activity can reduce the psychological and physical stress of drug and alcohol treatment, allowing patients the opportunity for more effective self-examination and personal growth.
The History of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
The therapeutic use of horses dates back to ancient civilizations. The Greeks are known to have enlisted the calming presence of horses to comfort the sick. As early as the 17th century, therapeutic riding appears in literature where it was a suggested aid in the treatment of depression.
Studies have shown that equine assisted therapy can significantly improve a person’s self-esteem, self-confidence and self-worth. These are crucial elements in the successful recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.
In addition to the psychological benefits, those that have undergone this therapy also see an improvement in physical aspects, such as coordination, muscle strength and balance. All of these promote healthy brain functioning and neural network activity.
Equine Assisted Therapy For Addiction Treatment
Often, during equine therapy, a profound connection is made between a person and the horse that they’ve worked with. This can inspire a sense of purpose, and for some, can be key in their positive recovery from addiction.
Along with equine assisted therapy, patients at Inspire Malibu’s science and evidence-based treatment facilities have access to:
- One on One Counseling
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy
- Relapse Prevention Therapy
An individualized treatment plan is created for every client as they work with our addiction specialists.
Addiction is a treatable disease. The holistic approach to drug and alcohol treatment at Inspire Malibu has allowed many people to break free from the damaging cycle of addiction.
If you or someone you know needs help for drug and alcohol addiction, or you would like more information about our Equine Assisted Therapy For Addiction, please call one of our addiction specialists now.
