The Power of Somatic Equine Therapy: Research Based & Evidence Backed

As a nation, we owe a profound debt of gratitude to our veterans, first responders, and public service members. These brave individuals have selflessly served our country and communities, often at great personal cost. For many, the invisible wounds of service – PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges – can be just as debilitating as physical injuries.

Traditional therapies often fall short in reaching this population, leaving a critical gap in care. This is where Somatic Equine Therapy emerges as a beacon of hope. This innovative approach harnesses the healing power of horses to promote profound mental health recovery.

The Science Behind the Healing

Numerous studies underscore the efficacy of equine-assisted therapies in reducing symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety. A case series study published in Military Medicine found significant improvements in PTSD symptoms among veterans participating in equine-assisted therapy. Another study involving medical students discovered equine-assisted activities lowered stress and depression levels.

The somatic aspect of equine therapy is key to its success. Somatic Experiencing, a technique focusing on processing trauma through physical awareness, is often incorporated into equine programs. Research highlights how combining Somatic Experiencing and attachment principles with equine-assisted interventions enhances safety and promotes healing.

A Sanctuary for Healing

Somatic Equine Therapy offers more than just symptom reduction; it provides a sanctuary for growth and empowerment. The human-horse bond fosters a sense of connection and community, combating the isolation often experienced by veterans and first responders. Physical interactions with horses encourage mindfulness, self-awareness, and emotional regulation – critical skills for managing mental health challenges.

In the presence of horses, individuals can access and process deep-seated trauma in a uniquely gentle and non-threatening way. As one study eloquently states, "The horse is a catalyst for the client's journey of self-discovery and healing."

A Call to Action

While the benefits of Somatic Equine Therapy are clear, access to these programs remains limited for many veterans and first responders. It is our collective responsibility to ensure these heroes receive the care they deserve. Whether through donating, volunteering, or advocating for equine therapy programs, we can all play a role in bridging this gap.

At Forepsyt, we are committed to providing Somatic Equine Therapy at no cost to veterans, first responders, and public service members. With your support, we can create a haven for healing and empower our nation's heroes to reclaim their lives.Join us in this mission. Together, we can harness the healing power of horses to transform lives and honor the service of our nation's heroes.

References

Earles, J.L., Vernon, L.L., & Yetz, J.P. (2015). Equine-assisted therapy for anxiety and posttraumatic stress symptoms. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 28(1), 20–22. https://doi.org/10.1002/jts.21990

Korn, L. (2016). Mind-body-spirit interventions for patients with PTSD. Psychiatric Times. https://drlesliekorn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/01_Intro_H1_Mind-Body-for-PTSD-Patients.pdf

Morgan, J. (2019). The lived experiences of contact with horses during a somatic awareness workshop: An interpretative phenomenological analysis. https://ujcontent.uj.ac.za/esploro/fulltext/graduate/The-lived-experiences-of-contact-with/9911747407691?repId=124772840007691&mId=136339350007691&institution=27UOJ_INST

Schlote, S. (2017). Somatic Experiencing and Attachment Principles. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Sarah-Schlote/publication/332864388_How_Somatic_Experiencing_and_Attachment_Principles_Can_Increase_Safety_and_Welfare_in_Equine-Assisted_Interventions_and_Horsemanship_Approaches/links/5e632fc892851c7ce04d3676/How-Somatic-Experiencing-and-Attachment-Principles-Can-Increase-Safety-and-Welfare-in-Equine-Assisted-Interventions-and-Horsemanship-Approaches.pdf

Schlote, S. (2018). Integrating Somatic Experiencing and attachment into equine-assisted trauma recovery. In K.S. Trotter & J.N. Baggerly (Eds.), Equine-assisted mental health for healing trauma. https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9780429456107-1/integrating-somatic-experiencing%C2%AE-attachment-equine-assisted-trauma-recovery-sarah-schlote

Shelef, A., Brafman, D., Rosing, T., & Weizman, A. (2019). Equine assisted therapy for patients with post traumatic stress disorder: A case series study. Military Medicine, 184(9–10), 394–396. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/qxz227

Wharton, T., Locklear, J., & Chakales, P.A. (2020). Medicine and horsemanship: The effects of equine-assisted activities and therapies on stress and depression in medical students. Cureus, 12(10), e10815. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.10815