Equine-assisted psychotherapy: a mental health
promotion/intervention modality for children who have
experienced intra-family violence Source: Health & Social Care
in the Community, Volume 15, Number 3, May 2007 , pp. 265-271(7)
Abstract:Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) is a specialized
form of psychotherapy using the horse as a therapeutic tool.
This modality is designed to address self-esteem and personal
confidence, communication and interpersonal effectiveness,
trust, boundaries and limit-setting, and group cohesion.
Substantial numbers of children witness family violence. There
is evidence that violence between parents has adverse effects on
the children in the family. These children are at greater risk
of behavioural problems and mental health disorders, including
anxiety, anger, depression and suicidal ideations, withdrawal,
low self-esteem, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
The purpose of the present pilot study was to test the efficacy
of EAP in a cross-sectional group of children refe