Equine-assisted coaching and PTSD
PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a highly traumatic event. Symptoms can range from flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety to uncontrollable thoughts about the event.
In the quest for recovery, horse-assisted coaching offers a welcome alternative to traditional talk therapy. Trauma is (also) stored in the body. In addition, the nervous system can be so disrupted that it is impossible to even find words to describe the event(s).
During contact with horses, everything happens through non-verbal communication. This is the beginning of the recovery of the self-regulating capacity of both the nervous system and the emotions. This ultimately enables the client to calmly rebuild relationships with others.
“the impact of trauma is located in the somatosensory self.”
— Dr. Bessel van der Kolk
Equine-assisted coaching is a form of coaching that has proven to be particularly effective for people with PTSD. Research shows that interacting with horses can offer significant benefits for individuals struggling with the symptoms of PTSD. This form of therapy helps reduce stress, anxiety, and other related symptoms through a unique combination of movement, emotional connection, and the calming presence of the horse.
One of the core aspects of equine coaching is the opportunity to build a relationship of trust with the animal. This relationship can lead to improved self-regulation and emotional stability. Horses instinctively respond to human emotions and can therefore act as a mirror for the client. This process can help clients recognise and process their emotions in a safe and non-judgmental way.
In addition, non-verbal communication with the horse offers an alternative form of interaction that can be particularly beneficial for people who have difficulty expressing themselves through words. This makes horse coaching a powerful tool for people with PTSD, who often struggle to articulate their experiences and emotions.
Studies have shown that equine coaching leads to a reduction in PTSD symptoms, such as flashbacks, avoidance, and increased irritability. One specific study found that participants in equine coaching reported significant improvements in terms of anxiety, depression, and overall quality of life. This suggests that equine coaching can not only reduce the symptoms of PTSD, but also contribute to an overall sense of well-being and joy in life.
It is important to note that this coaching is not a replacement for traditional forms of therapy, but rather a complementary treatment that can be used in combination with other therapies. Interacting with horses offers a unique path to recovery, with an emphasis on building trust, increasing self-awareness, and promoting emotional healing.
Horse-assisted coaching offers a unique combination of physical activity, emotional support, and the opportunity for personal growth and development. While further research is needed to understand the full scope of its benefits, it is clear that this form of therapy can have a positive impact on the lives of people struggling with the challenges of PTSD.
For more information and research on the impact of equine coaching on PTSD, visit Applied Animal Behaviour Science and Journal of Traumatic Stress.
We would like to draw special attention to the major ongoing research at Utrecht University H-PWR – Horse Power
In this research, both horses and humans (all veterans and first responders with PTSD) are closely monitored so that the effects of this type of work can be scientifically substantiated.