Horse Therapy

As a clinician I have found that exposure therapy/ outdoor therapy/ adventure therapy works well for many different areas and disorders.

• Acute stress disorder.

• Agoraphobia and other phobias.

• Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

I have several clients who suffer from social anxiety. These clients were hesitant at first but now volunteer to come whenever offered. Clients are now being more active within the community, being more independent in public, and their communication and socialization skills have enhanced. 

Not to mention being outdoors is a great way to disconnect from the chaotic tasks of everyday life. 

I would have to say my personal favorite is visiting a horse farm that rescues horses about to be put down and homes them. While there my clients spend some time with horses, help care for horses, and get to ride a horse with a guide. There is no technology to distract the client, they can get grounded by being outside, and just be at peace with the quietness of  the land. I would recommend anyone to do this outdoor horse therapy. I have seen progress in not only my clients, but in my teenage daughter as well who volunteers her time here as well.