From guide dogs to emotional support animals, the use of animals for emotional and physical support has been a popular therapy for decades. However, there is one four-legged friend that specifically helps people to take back the reins when navigating addiction and mental health conditions. 

Equine Assisted Therapy is the practice of using horses as a form of rehabilitation therapy. The early sessions of equine therapy generally focus on building a trust-based relationship with the therapist horse (or horses). Although equine therapies can have valuable benefits across a range of conditions, it’s particularly beneficial for those who may feel like their issues are trapped in their mind, namely people who experience anxiety, PTSD, or chronic stress.

Speaking with The Wire’s Aryana Mohmood about the value of equine-assisted therapy is Marian Cartwright, an Equine Assisted Psychotherapist and Ruth Limkin, CEO of The Banyans Healthcare.

Image: Image courtesy Tiana | Pexels

Produced By: Aryana Mohmood

Featured In Story: Marian Cartwright, Equine Assisted Psychotherapist., and Ruth Limkin, CEO of The Banyans Healthcare

First aired on The Wire, Monday 5 June 2023