Triggering Transformations: An Equine Assisted Approach to the Treatment of Substance Abuse

This chapter describes a relational, solution-focused approach to Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) that incorporates attention to mindfulness, allowing clients struggling with substance abuse to work on their individual goals alongside other group participants. In the treatment of substance abuse, mindfulness practices may help clients avoid relapse by increasing their awareness of negative patterns of thoughts and emotions that could increase the likelihood of relapse triggers. Clinically, the combination of the equine-assisted experiential model and a solution-focused emphasis offers opportunities for heightened awareness and transformation. EAP approaches have been applied to many different clinical concerns, including substance abuse, eating disorders, domestic violence, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, and physical or sexual abuse. The horses assist the therapists in shining light on the clients\u27 abilities and strengths in relation to their problem. Clinical approaches that address the addiction without considering the clients\u27 strengths, resources, and resilience miss critical opportunities to engage clients in a collaborative process that can anchor their decision to remain sober.https://nsuworks.nova.edu/shss_facbooks/1127/thumbnail.jp