Trauma can leave deep emotional and psychological scars, often disrupting lives in ways that traditional mental health treatment struggles to address. For many individuals, equine therapy provides a unique and effective path to recovery. Equine-assisted growth involves interacting with horses under the guidance of trained professionals, allowing individuals to experience emotional healing in a non-traditional yet profoundly impactful setting.¹
Horses are incredibly intuitive animals, known for their ability to sense and respond to human emotions. This natural sensitivity makes them ideal partners in therapeutic environments, particularly for individuals struggling with trauma. Unlike traditional talk therapy, equine therapy emphasizes non-verbal communication, helping trauma survivors reconnect with their emotions, build trust, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.²
At BIG SKY Treatment, we understand that healing from trauma requires a compassionate and holistic approach. Our equine-assisted therapy program is designed to support trauma survivors on their journey to recovery, offering a serene and supportive environment where individuals can safely work through their pain. Our patients find peace, emotional regulation, and a renewed sense of self through the unique bond formed with horses.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN TRAUMA AND ADDICTION
Trauma and addiction are closely linked, with many trauma survivors turning to substances as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions. Drugs or alcohol may temporarily numb the pain, but this often leads to addiction, trapping individuals in a cycle of dependency. Without addressing the underlying trauma, recovery becomes challenging, and relapse is common as unresolved emotions resurface.³
Traditional therapies, while effective for some, may not fully address the deep emotional wounds of trauma. Equine therapy offers a complementary approach, allowing individuals to heal non-verbally by building trust and emotional resilience through horse interactions. At BIG SKY Treatment, equine therapy helps trauma survivors break free from the cycle of addiction and find healthier ways to cope.⁴
Benefits of Equine-Assisted Therapy for Trauma Survivors
One of the primary benefits of equine-assisted therapies is its ability to help trauma survivors manage their emotions. Horses, being highly attuned to human feelings, react to the emotions they sense, providing immediate feedback. This interaction allows individuals to become more aware of their emotional state and practice regulating emotions in a safe, non-judgmental environment. Trauma survivors can develop better emotional control in their daily lives by learning to calm themselves and manage reactions through their connection with the horse.¹
For many trauma survivors, trust has been shattered—whether by others or by the traumatic event itself. Interacting with horses provides a unique opportunity to rebuild that trust. Horses require clear, consistent communication and mutual respect, mirroring healthy relationships. As individuals learn to trust the horse and, in turn, earn the horse’s trust, they begin to rebuild their sense of self-worth. This process is gradual and empowering, helping to restore confidence and self-esteem that trauma often damages.¹
Working with horses naturally promotes relaxation and mindfulness. The quiet, peaceful setting and the horse’s calm demeanor help reduce anxiety and stress. Engaging in physical activity with the horses, such as grooming or leading them through exercises, encourages trauma survivors to focus on the present moment, which can reduce racing thoughts and provide mental clarity. This interaction helps ease the emotional burden trauma survivors often carry, promoting overall mental well-being.³
Equine-assisted therapy encourages individuals to develop alternative ways of managing stress and emotions. Instead of turning to harmful coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse or isolation, survivors learn to channel their feelings into positive actions. The relationship built with the horse offers a healthy outlet for emotional expression and stress relief, providing survivors with tools they can apply daily.⁴
The benefits of equine therapy extend far beyond the therapy sessions. Trauma survivors who engage in equine-assisted therapy often report lasting improvements in emotional health, reduced trauma symptoms, and an enhanced sense of well-being. Over time, individuals may experience increased resilience, a stronger sense of self, and a better ability to navigate relationships and daily challenges. These long-term improvements contribute to a higher quality of life, making equine therapy a valuable tool for those healing from trauma.
Equine Therapy at BIG SKY Treatment
BIG SKY Treatment offers a specialized equine therapy program designed to support trauma survivors in a serene, outdoor environment. Our peaceful setting allows individuals to disconnect from daily stress and focus on healing. The program is led by experienced therapists who are experts in experiential therapy and equine-assisted therapy, ensuring each patient receives compassionate, tailored care.
Safe and Compassionate Care for Trauma Survivors
We tailor our equine therapy program to the unique needs of trauma survivors, creating a safe space where healing happens at each individual’s pace. We aim to support emotional recovery through trust-building and non-verbal communication with the horses.
BIG SKY Treatment combines expert care, a nurturing environment, and the proven benefits of equine therapy to help trauma survivors heal. Our program is a compassionate and effective option for those seeking recovery.
Combining Equine Therapy with Other Treatment Modalities
At BIG SKY Treatment, equine therapy is a cornerstone of our holistic, integrated approach to trauma recovery. While horses play a crucial role in helping patients rebuild trust and manage emotions, equine therapy’s full potential is realized when combined with other evidence-based treatments, including counseling, occupational therapy, and psychotherapy. This synergistic approach ensures comprehensive care for each individual’s unique needs.³
Equine therapy is often paired with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), allowing patients to gain insights into their thought patterns while building emotional resilience through horse interactions. CBT helps trauma survivors identify and challenge negative thinking, while equine therapy provides experiential learning to reinforce these cognitive shifts.⁵
In addition to individual equine sessions, group therapy offers patients the chance to share their experiences with others who are also healing from trauma. This collective support system, combined with the personal growth from equine therapy, fosters a stronger sense of community and belonging, which is vital to long-term recovery.³
Equine therapy naturally promotes mindfulness, as patients must remain present and engaged with the horse. BIG SKY Treatment integrates mindfulness techniques like meditation and breathing exercises to enhance this, helping patients further develop self-awareness and emotional regulation.¹
By combining equine therapy with CBT, group therapy, and mindfulness, BIG SKY Treatment offers a comprehensive trauma recovery program. Each therapy complements the others, addressing the physical, emotional, and cognitive aspects of trauma, leading to more profound, more sustained healing for our patients.
BUILD A FOUNDATION FOR LASTING CHANGE
At BIG SKY, we offer more than just treatment; we offer a chance at a new beginning. Let us help you lay the groundwork for a life free from the shadows of mental health illness and addiction. Our dedicated team is always here to provide guidance and answer your questions—day or night.
Experience Lasting Recovery with Equine Therapy
Equine-assisted therapy programs offer a unique and powerful path to healing for trauma survivors. By fostering emotional regulation, building trust, relieving stress, and developing healthier coping mechanisms, equine therapy helps individuals achieve emotional balance and mental clarity. The long-term benefits can be life-changing, providing trauma survivors with the tools they need to heal and improve their overall well-being.
If you or a loved one is struggling with trauma, don’t wait to seek help. BIG SKY Treatment is here to support you on your recovery journey. Contact us today to explore how equine therapy can be a part of your path to healing and recovery.
EQUINE THERAPY PROGRAM GALLERY
Experience the beauty and healing of equine therapy at BIG SKY Treatment in Kalispell, Montana. Click images to view full size.
Sources
- Trotter, K. S., Chandler, C. K., Goodwin-Bond, D., & Casey, J. (2008). A comparative study of the efficacy of group equine assisted counseling with at-risk children and adolescents. Journal of Creative Mental Health, 3(3), 254-284. https://doi.org/10.1080/15401380802356880
- National Institute of Mental Health. (2023, September 13). Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Retrieved September 13, 2023, from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd
- Bachi, K., Terkel, J., & Teichman, M. (2012). Equine-facilitated psychotherapy for at-risk adolescents: The influence on self-image, self-control and trust. Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 17(2), 298-312. https://doi.org/10.1177/1359104511404177
- American Psychological Association. (2023, September 13). Trauma. Retrieved September 13, 2023, from https://www.apa.org/topics/trauma
- Journal of Traumatic Stress. (2020). Equine-assisted therapy for trauma recovery. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 33(5), 800-810. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/jts.22552
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