Horsepower Therapeutic Learning: Definition and Applications

Equine-assisted services (EAS) are increasingly recognized for their potential to promote psychological health and social well-being. Among these services, Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL) stands out as a unique approach. This article explores the definition of horsepower therapeutic learning, delving into its applications, benefits, and the various equine-assisted services available.

Equine-Assisted Services: An Overview

Equine-assisted services (EAS) encompass a range of treatments that involve activities with horses and other equines to promote human physical and mental health. Wood et al. identified 12 distinct types of equine services, covering the use of horses in therapeutic settings, learning environments, and horsemanship activities. These services are gaining popularity as ways to promote psychological health and social well-being. The term EAS is the most appropriate unifying term to refer to various services where professionals use equines to help clients.

Horses have been involved in a range of medical and therapeutic interventions including among others, hippotherapy for musculoskeletal disorders, cerebral palsy, Down's syndrome, or autism spectrum disorder, therapeutic riding for cancer recovery and even initiatives involving equines for weight management. White-Lewis identified 26 therapeutic medical uses of horses, but research conducted as a part of this review suggests there are likely more.

Defining Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL)

Equine-assisted learning (EAL) is described as an "experiential learning approach that promotes the development of life skills." EAL involves initiatives with a primary focus on groundwork to promote learning objectives related to academics, personal growth, or life/coping skills.

EAL is an experiential form of learning where the horse acts as a partner in the process of self-discovery and self-improvement. By including horses in uniquely designed activities, an equine-assisted facilitator can observe non-verbal communication between the horse and the client. The facilitator guides the session, translates what they see going on, and encourages the client to move through the exercise. When the activities of the session are complete, the facilitator and client debrief on the experience, discuss insights, and look at next steps. The experiential approach to learning effectively provides understanding and retention of skills and ideas.

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Traditionally, EAL is done as group work, with a focus on groundwork and promoting a bond between the horse and the participant that creates an opportunity for experiential learning through structured guided activities involving direct interaction with a horse.

EAL Definition in Practice

For the purposes of this review, a relevant intervention is one that focuses on using groundwork with horses as an initiative with at-risk youth, youth who have experienced trauma, mental illness or family dysfunction, and/or Indigenous youth. Hippotherapy, therapeutic riding and other programs involving only riding as a method of delivering the intervention were excluded. Some programs included both groundwork and some riding activities. The decision of whether to include such programs was made based on the relative amount of groundwork vs. riding activities included and a judgement call based on the focus of the riding activities (e.g., whether these were a final challenge to further concepts established in groundwork or whether the intention was primarily the use of riding as a physical intervention, with groundwork only as a preliminary session). Many programs followed a specific model accredited by a relevant organisation in this area (e.g., EAGALA), however this was not a requirement. Some programs had specific therapeutic goals and were facilitated by mental health professionals, while others were more focused on academic and learning outcomes or on life skills development. Though these initiatives are all quite different in their nature and intentions, we were interested in the range of services addressing these outcomes, and therefore have included a variety of EAS in this review according to the above criteria.

The Role of Horses in Therapeutic Learning

Horses are highly attuned to their environment and are sensitive to people's emotions. Horses have a unique ability to pick up on what people are feeling by reading and reacting to client's body language. Horses are very much like humans in that they are social animals. They have defined roles within their herds. They have distinct personalities, attitudes, and moods. Participants learn to be aware of the horse's body language and change their approach accordingly. Accomplishing a task with a horse successfully increases participants' confidence and provides wonderful metaphors for problem-solving and overcoming intimidating and challenging situations for life.

It has been suggested that EAS can increase confidence, as clients learn to respect the power of the horses during their interactions. Clients report that the relationship with horses facilitates trust and communication, and clients are able to overcome fear, as mastery is gained over the horse.

Types of Equine-Assisted Services

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP)

EAP is an interactive session with horses that are conducted while being supervised by a mental health professional and an equine specialist. During the session, the client will typically engage in basic caretaking activities with the horse under the direction of an equine specialist. They may also take on a more complex activity, such as creating a basic obstacle course for the horse and guiding them through it. After, the therapist and the client will usually discuss what occurred, what was learned, and what behaviors or emotions they might target in their next session with the horse. There is no riding involved and horse experience is not necessary.

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EAP does not necessarily involve riding, but may include grooming, feeding, and ground exercises. Mental health professionals work with one or more clients and one or more horses in an experiential manner to help the clients learn about themselves and others, while processing or discussing the client's feelings, behaviors, and patterns. The goal is to help the client in social, emotional, cognitive, or behavioral ways.

Hippotherapy

Hippotherapy involves an occupational therapist, a physiotherapist, or a speech and language therapist working with a client and a horse. The movement of the horse affects a rider's posture, balance, coordination, strength and sensorimotor systems. It is thought that the warmth and shape of the horse and its rhythmic, three-dimensional movement along with the rider's interactions with the horse and responses to the movement of the horse can improve the flexibility, posture, balance and mobility of the rider. Learning to use verbal cues for the horse, and to speak with the therapist is key to practicing use of speech. It differs from therapeutic horseback riding because it is one treatment strategy used by a licensed physical therapist, occupational therapist, or speech and language pathologists. They guide the rider's posture and actions while the horse is controlled by a horse handler at the direction of the therapist.

Therapeutic Riding

At about 1952, in Germany, therapeutic riding was used to address orthopaedic dysfunctions such as scoliosis. The first riding centers in North America began in the 1960s and the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) was launched in 1969. Therapeutic riding was introduced to the United States and Canada in 1960 with the formation of the Community Association of Riding of the Disabled (CARD). In the United States riding for disabled people developed as a form of recreation and as a means of motivation for education, as well as its therapeutic benefits.

Horsepower Therapeutic Learning Center: A Closer Look

At HORSEPOWER Therapeutic Learning Center, the horses are the true magic-makers behind every success story. With their calm energy, gentle patience, and intuitive understanding, these incredible animals work miracles with people of all ages. Each horse in the barn brings a unique spirit and personality, creating special bonds with riders and volunteers alike.

The Horses of HORSEPOWER

Each of these amazing animals brings something unique and powerful to HORSEPOWER. Their patience, kindness, and strength help our riders and volunteers find healing, growth, and joy. Here are some of the horses that make HORSEPOWER special:

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Ada: Born in 2003, Ada is a golden Tennessee Walker. Her natural, unique movement makes her a favorite among our riders looking for sensory fulfillment, and sheâs especially skilled at helping students build core strength and stability.
Aztec: Born in 2009, this striking Dutch Harness Horse turns heads with his bold presence and expressive eyes. He thrives on connection and loves to be in the know, specially when thereâs a student in the arena to observe or a visitor to charm.
Canel: Stamped with international charm, Canel is our graceful bay Danish Warmblood. Born in 2002, he brings his experience and elegance to our therapeutic riding program. Heâs incredibly intuitive and attentive to his riders, adjusting with subtlety and care to meet their needs.
Charlotte: Small but mighty, Charlotte is the tiniest horse on the farm. Affectionately known as our âBarn Greeter,â Charlotte thrives on connection and loves being part of the action.
Cheyanne: Born in 2007, Cheyanne is a Morgan mare with a heart as steady as her stride. With her gentle nature and balanced movement, she has a way of making every rider feel safe.
Chloe: Born in 2010, this adorable Quarter Horse is confident, calm, and always ready for whatever challenge comes her way. Sheâs quickly become one of the most dependable and steady therapeutic horses on the property.
Frank Sinatra: Born in 1999, our flashy Appaloosa-Paint cross pony is here to steal the spotlight! Heâs helping riders grow in confidence and connection.
Glory: Born in 2008, this western sweetheart loves to greet anyone with treats. Whenever she is out of her stall, she proudly wears her Clemson colors; purple and orange!
Grace: Born in 2008, Grace is the perfect blend of gentle strength and heartfelt willingness. A ClydesdaleâThoroughbred cross, she truly embodies the best of both breeds.
Juniper: Born in 2006, this roan-colored Quarter Horse brings calm confidence and a steady spirit to every class.
Lena: Born in 2006, this beautiful Quarter Horse comes from legendary stock. True to her lineage, Lena is sharp, handy, and loves having a job to do.
Marigold: Born in 2014, sheâs stolen countless hearts with her flashy coat, sweet expression, and confident presence in the barn.
Moon: Born in 2009, Moon has big kind eyes and willing to do anything asked of him.
Omar: Born in 2014, Omar brings a mix of brains, beauty, and heart to the HORSEPOWER herd.
Ramona: Born in 2008, this beautiful Hanoverian mare has fully embraced the therapeutic lifestyle, especially if it includes extra neck rubs and plenty of praise.
Ruby: Born in 2003, this stunning Warmblood mare is always ready to greet visitors with a soft nicker from the front of her stall.
Sage: Born in 2011, this striking red and grey Appaloosa is known for both her bold coloring and bold personality.
Samson: Born in 2018, Samson is the gentle giant of the farm.

Benefits of Horsepower Therapeutic Learning

The benefits of horsepower come from within. Participants gain insight, knowledge, and confidence through on-the-ground equine training in the open-air covered arena.

Previous examples of EAS have been found to increase client retention in addictions programs and serve as a precursor to engagement in verbal therapy. Clients report that the relationship with horses facilitates trust and communication, and clients are able to overcome fear, as mastery is gained over the horse.

Applications of EAL

EAS may show particular promise as culturally appropriate initiatives for at-risk Indigenous youth, as they are thought to align well with Indigenous ways of knowing which place emphasis on relationships between the land and all living beings. The intention of this review was to assess the potential for using horses in therapeutic initiatives with Indigenous populations, more specifically the use of equine-assisted learning (EAL) and related initiatives as therapeutic activities for Indigenous youth. Notably, Snowshoe and Starblanket provide a framework to explain the potential value of using the Lac La Croix Indigenous Pony with First Nations youth as a part of the Indigenous Horse-Based Healing process in a way that can help to decolonize existing and future EAS and allow them to be more culturally relevant

EAL Programs

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy: This is an interactive session tailored to meet the mental health need of our client. The therapeutic team consists of a licensed mental health professional, a certified equine specialist, and one or more horses. Building a relationship with the horse is beneficial for clients with trauma, attachment issues, and those seeking to develop coping and emotional regulation skills. Other benefits include: increased self-esteem, confidence, assertiveness, and ability to set boundaries. Our program is based on the principles of character-based education which promotes kindness and consideration of others. No riding is involved and no horsemanship experience is required.
Development Retreats: Equine Reflections' Professional Development Retreat is a fun, engaging, and interactive team-building experience that uses equine-assisted activities to build leadership skills, improve communications, and help corporate teams connect on a deeper level. As you work as a team, your horse partners will act as a real-time performance review, providing honest feedback as you go.
Life Coaching: Are you struggling with understanding who you are? Where you are? And what do you really want to do? The participant will gain insight, knowledge, and confidence through on-the-ground equine training in the open-air covered arena.
Summer sessions: Come to Loudoun Therapeutic Riding and have some fun in the sun with our herd! Join us for one of our week-long inclusive (all abilities), educational spring break and summer sessions, taught by PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors and Equine Specialists in Mental Health & Learning, supported by trained volunteers. Students must be at least 6 years old, independent in a group setting and able to take care of own bathroom needs. 9:30 â 11:30am â Groom and tack horses, then riding lesson or groundwork begins (30 â 45 min.

Research Supporting EAL

Previous research supports the potential for various types of EAS to address psychological well-being and social and behavioural concerns in young people, though methodological concerns with existing research are frequently noted. Additionally, it has been reported that Indigenous youth have challenges accessing the mental healthcare they require due in part to the monocultural nature of services being offered. Snowshoe and Starblanket provide initial evidence that a culturally-responsive Indigenous Equine Therapy program has the potential to have a positive impact on Indigenous youth mental wellness, however the efficacy and appropriateness of animal assisted therapies, including therapies incorporating horses, with Indigenous peoples has not been rigorously studied. While health practitioners may wish to provide culturally appropriate care for Indigenous youth, there is often frustration at the lack of empirically-grounded frameworks for providing such care. There is therefore a need to further assess the cultural appropriateness of equine therapy initiatives with a range of groups, including Indigenous peoples.

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