It is well-known that many animals are incredibly intuitive animals that can sense and respond to the emotions of people. Traumas are difficult to recover from because they often cause intense and long-lasting reactions in people. This can be because traumas can affect a person’s physical and emotional safety, causing them to feel overwhelmed and out of control. Additionally, when someone experiences a trauma, their brain often goes into survival mode, leading to them feeling disconnected from their thoughts and feelings. This makes it difficult for people to talk about their experiences or access memories of the trauma.
Animal assisted therapy focuses on helping individuals to heal by using the natural bond between people and animals. Studies have shown that animal assisted therapy can be an effective trauma treatment. If you or a loved one feels they could benefit from an animal assisted therapy program, reach out to The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® today at 855.773.0614.
Animal Assisted Therapy and Trauma
Animal assisted therapy is so effective for trauma because it helps provide a sense of safety, calm, and connection. Animal assisted therapy helps trauma because:
- When people interact with animals, they often feel a sense of comfort and peace.
- This is because animals offer non-judgmental companionship, and they can help to ground people in the present moment.
- Interacting with animals can also help people to feel more connected, which can be beneficial for those who have experienced trauma as it can help them to feel less alone.
- Additionally, animal assisted therapy can help to increase feelings of self-worth and confidence. This is because when people are able to care for another living being, they often feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.
- Animals help to lower stress levels and allow people to feel more in control.
- New experiences remove people from their worries and anxieties while allowing them to slowly develop new, healthier patterns.
Equine Therapy
Animal Assisted Therapy and Trauma treatment can take the form of equine therapy, also known as equine-assisted therapy (EAT). It is a type of experiential therapy that uses horses as a medium to help people achieve their therapeutic goals. In equine therapy, clients work with horses in a variety of ways, such as grooming, saddling, and riding. The goal is to use the horse as a mirror to help the client see themselves more clearly and work through the issues that are causing them difficulty. Equine therapy benefits the entire treatment process and ensures that individuals get a more interactive and environmentally-stimulating source of treatment.
Developing this relationship with such a beautiful animal has been found to help individuals develop an ability to trust and love in a more open manner, and this is why there are many benefits of equine therapy for trauma. In addition to being helpful for people with trauma, equine therapy can also be beneficial for people with anxiety, depression, addiction, autism spectrum disorder, and other mental health issues.
Some of the most important benefits of equine therapy include:
- A unique way for individuals to cultivate empathy, trust, and compassion
- Improved relationship skills
- A place to explore feelings and emotions
- Trust and self-confidence building
Animal Assisted Therapy and Trauma at the Willows at Red Oak Recovery®
Animal assisted therapy is a powerful experiential technique that can provide immense benefits for those struggling with trauma. Animals offer a non-judgmental presence that allows individuals to explore their feelings and emotions in a safe and supportive environment. If you or someone you know is struggling with trauma, reach out to our team of experiential therapy experts at The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® today at 855.773.0614.
