Teens
Teenagers respond especially well to the non-traditional approach of equine-assisted psychotherapy. EAP has been shown to improve adolescent motivation, cooperation, and attention to tasks. The horses in equine-assisted psychotherapy provide the patient with a vehicle for projection. The patient is able to look at what works and what does not.
Equine-assisted psychotherapy is designed to teach patients about themselves, to help them recognize dysfunction, and to move them toward healthy interactions with others. The activities with horses promote awareness of personal thoughts, words, and actions. EAP interventions teach problem solving, communication, and social skills.
EAP addresses numerous issues with teens, including:
- aggression
- impulse control
- attention
- substance abuse
- eating disorders
- victimization
- depression
- anxiety
- relationship problems
- adjustment disorders
- obsessive-compulsive disorders
- school failure
- antisocial behavior
- isolation
- grief and loss
- bullying