Equine assisted psychotherapy (EAP) is fast gaining recognition internationally as an effective treatment strategy for a number of different client groups. Its capacity to deliver positive outcomes for adolescents and mental health clients has brought the practice to Australasia. This paper provides a review of the literature on EAP and considers the development, status and future among contemporary counselling approaches. After examining the history of the horse-human relationship and the possible value of the horse as a therapeutic assistant, we discuss the background and development of EAP through to its emerging professional status. The process of an EAP session is briefly described and is illustrated with client responses to EAP. We conclude by discussing the outlook for EAP in Australia and New Zealand, with some suggestions for future potential and development.
B. Gardiner, K. Frewin
Journal of Counseling Psychology, Vol. 6 (2005), pp. 13-17
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