In-depth study of equine-assisted coaching

 

As a scientist, I believe it is important to constantly investigate whether what I do is based on sound scientific research.

I regularly attend training courses and read up on the latest literature on the topics I am involved in.

This is where I like to share this with anyone who is interested. Keep an eye on this page, as it is regularly updated with new information.

Equine-assisted coaching on film

First up, a short lecture from the University of the Netherlands in which Theo Verheggen explains from a scientific perspective the sense and nonsense of animals as ‘healers’.

Documentaries

Below are two excellent documentaries about horse-assisted coaching.

The first is ‘Stiller Kamerad’ from 2019. A German documentary in which three veterans with PTSD are followed during their work with horses. All three struggle with trauma from their military service and suffer greatly as a result.

The second is a short Dutch documentary from 2024 called ‘Spiegel’.

This intimate documentary is about horse-assisted coaching used with young people with a variety of problems. It is a modest record of what horses can achieve.

Opportunity for Reintegration onto the workfloor

The UWV regularly uses horse-assisted coaching for reintegration. In this video, you can see Daniëlle (WIA). She has been undergoing equine therapy for months.

Amber the horse helps her deal with the tensions she experiences due to her complex PTSD. The contact with Amber is very important for her reintegration.

If you are covered by the Sickness Benefits Act, WIA or Wajong and this form of reintegration appeals to you, let your practitioner know. For more information, they can contact Valerie Elsing – VEVE coaching.

Rather read?

Bibliography

 

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