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Horses are able to identify human expressions, choosing to approach more positive facial expressions than angry ones. [1] This makes horses very sensitive to changes in human expression and emotion, and this sensitivity makes horse therapy an increasingly popular avenue for healing, both emotionally and physically. Equine-assisted therapy and hippotherapy are two common types of horse therapy, but there are distinct differences between the two.
Both therapies involve horses, but each addresses a different goal in overall health. Equine-assisted therapy focuses on addressing mental health, with patients caring for horses in a stable setting. Hippotherapy, on the other hand, is an approach to physical therapy where the patient rides horses in order to address physical health.
Hippotherapy is a combination word that encompasses the occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and physical therapy components of this horse-riding therapeutic technique. [2]
Equine-assisted therapy focuses on addressing mental health challenges, such as those associated with alcohol, opiate, or cocaine detox. By caring for horses with a mental health professional present, patients are able to address the emotional and mental health issues associated with their substance use disorder. The emotional intelligence of horses helps patients improve self-confidence, overcome their struggles, and build long-lasting emotional foundations for successful sobriety. Equine-assisted therapy has been shown to improve mental health, even reducing symptoms of mental health disorders. [3]
At Banyan Detox Boca, we offer a wide variety of approaches to mental health and addiction treatment. Our Boca drug treatment programs include equine-assisted therapy to help patients better overcome their struggles.
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