Equine therapy, commonly referred to as equine-assisted therapy (EAT), is a type of treatment in which patients engage with horses. A number of mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, have been treated using the therapy. Although equine therapy is becoming more and more popular, is it actually effective? Explore now.
Equine therapy is useful in treating mental health conditions, according to studies. Human-horse interactions can improve a person’s ability to control their emotions, communicate, and establish trust. Additionally, the treatment offers a nonjudgmental setting where people can resolve their problems and gain confidence. Additionally, equine therapy can enhance physical health by encouraging exercise and enhancing balance and coordination.
The answer to the question of whether Medicare covers horse therapy is both yes and no. If it is determined to be medically required and is offered by a qualified healthcare professional, Medicare will pay for equine therapy. However, therapeutic riding, a type of horse treatment that focuses on physical limitations and is given by a riding instructor, is not covered by Medicare.
It’s crucial to understand the distinction between therapeutic riding and horse therapy. Equine therapy is primarily focused on mental health conditions, whereas therapeutic riding is primarily focused on physical limitations. Both involve contact with horses. Equine therapy involves ground-based exercises that concentrate on emotional and behavioral goals, whereas therapeutic riding involves the individual riding the horse while focusing on physical goals such increasing balance and coordination.
What precisely occurs in equine-assisted therapy, then? A skilled in equine therapy techniques licensed healthcare professional, usually a therapist or counselor, conducts the therapy sessions. The activities during the sessions include caring for and feeding the horses, leading them through an obstacle course, and engaging in communication and trust-building drills with them.
In conclusion, equine therapy is a powerful kind of treatment that can benefit those suffering from a range of mental health issues. Medicare does not fund therapeutic riding, yet in some cases it may support horse treatment. Therapeutic riding emphasizes on physical aims, whereas equine therapy places more of an emphasis on behavioral and emotional objectives. The therapy sessions feature a qualified healthcare professional and a range of exercises that foster effective communication, emotional control, and trust-building abilities.
Yes, horseback riding can help with mental health since it offers equine therapy, a type of treatment. Interacting with horses and doing things like riding, grooming, and feeding are all part of equine therapy. This can aid people in increasing their self-esteem, developing communication skills, and reducing the signs of anxiety and despair. Aside from that, exercise and being outside can both be beneficial for mental health.