Narrative synthesis of equine-assisted psychotherapy literature: Current knowledge and future research directions

Abstract

Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) is an innovative emerging approach to mental health treatment. This narrative synthesis explores the current state of knowledge and areas for future research in EAP. Specifically reviewed are qualitative and quantitative empirical studies, including both articles published in peer-reviewed journals and research presented in theses and dissertations. We selected 24 studies for final inclusion in this study, dating between 2005 and 2013, and including the first EAP empirical research completed in 2005. Four of these studies are peer-reviewed journal articles, while 20 are master's theses or doctoral dissertations. The reviewed qualitative research provides initial evidence for the value of EAP for enhancing adolescents' communication and relationship skills. The reviewed experimental and quasi-experimental research provides initial evidence for the value of EAP for enhancing children's and adolescents' emotional, social and behavioural functioning. Yet, conclusions about the effectiveness of EAP must still be considered preliminary due to various methodological limitations in the reviewed research. The narrative review describes these methodological limitations and concludes with recommendations for future research.

Green Care: A Review of the Benefits and Potential of Animal-Assisted Care Farming Globally and in Rural America

“…Equine-facilitated psychotherapy (EFP) is similar to EAP in that a psychotherapist is involved and works with the client towards therapeutic goals; however, mounted activities are also included. (Lee et al, 2016) [7]. …”

“…A review of equine-assisted therapy by Lee et al (2016) [7] provided a promising analysis of the potential benefits of these kinds of therapies. A case study in Switzerland conducted by Chardonnens (2009) [13] demonstrated that a combination of EAP and EFP improved the behavioral and mental disorders of an eight-year-old boy.…”

“…Research has shown that working with horses and other farm animals, as well as working in a garden setting, can increase self-esteem, reduce depression and anxiety, and benefit the overall well-being of people (Lee et al, 2016 [7]; Hickey, 2008 [22]; Hine et al, 2008 [3]). Self-efficacy is also a benefit of certain care-farming techniques (Berget et al, 2008) [20]), which could provide rural Americans with more mental tools to combat personal choices such as a sedentary lifestyle, poor food choices, or smoking cigarettes or using other drugs.…”

An open trial of equine-assisted therapy for children exposed to problematic parental substance use

“…According to Burgon, EAT is designed to 'provide alternative therapeutic and learning opportunities through experiences with horses alongside specialist practitioners' (Burgon 2011, p. 165). EAT is usually comprised of activities around caring for and handling a horse and can involve aspects of therapeutic riding such as opportunities to sit on and ride the horse with a focus on developing a therapeutic bond (All et al 1999, Lentini & Knox 2009, Lee et al 2016. Given traumatised children can experience a variety of emotional, social, cognitive and behavioural problems, their positive participation and engagement with a therapeutic intervention can be compromised (Waite & Bourke 2013).…”

“…, Lentini & Knox , Lee et al . ). Given traumatised children can experience a variety of emotional, social, cognitive and behavioural problems, their positive participation and engagement with a therapeutic intervention can be compromised (Waite & Bourke ).…”