What is Equine Therapy?
Equine therapy, also known as horse-assisted therapy, is a form of experiential therapy that involves interactions between individuals and horses to promote emotional growth, healing, and personal development. Unlike traditional talk therapy, equine therapy focuses on the relational and somatic (body-based) aspects of healing.
Participants engage with horses in a safe, controlled environment, often through activities like brushing, leading, or simply being present with the horse. The therapy is grounded in the idea that horses, as highly sensitive and intuitive animals, help us understand our nervous system responses and our emotions, through immediate and non-judgemental feedback.
At Horse Sense North, the approach is unique in that it considers the horse just as much as the human. Founder, director, and program creator, Carmen Theobald, has worked with thousands of horses, making this approach to equine therapy exceptionally safe, mutually respectful, and powerfully transformative. One of the ways this happens is through liberty work, where horses interact freely, without restraints and are free to choose how they engage with participants.
This creates a dynamic where the horse’s responses are authentic and unforced, allowing for deeper relational healing. The therapy is often facilitated alongside mental health professionals, ensuring a holistic approach to trauma recovery.
Why It Works
Equine therapy works on multiple levels, particularly for individuals dealing with trauma, such as first responders with PTSD. Here are some key reasons why it is effective:
Nervous System Regulation: Horses are highly attuned to the nervous systems of those around them. Through polyvagal-informed principles (Porges, 2011), equine therapy helps individuals recognize and regulate their nervous system states. When a person is dysregulated (e.g., anxious, hypervigilant, or shut down), the horse’s calm and grounded presence can co-regulate the individual, bringing them back to a state of safety. Over time, this mutual regulation—where both participant and horse influence each other’s calm—helps individuals practice skills they can apply beyond therapy.
Relational Healing: Trauma often disrupts a trust and connection with self and others. Through their interactions with these trained horses, participants learn to embrace their authentic selves. Horses embody a paradox of being both strong and vulnerable, and they teach us to do the same. Their prey animal instincts make them naturally sensitive to energy and intention. This makes them respond well to authenticity and vulnerability. They are also very powerful beings, and they actually like it when we feel empowered too. Practicing this with them in a safe space allows for individuals to build trust and connection without any judgment. This mirrors the relational healing needed for those who have experienced trauma in high-stress environments such as those common in first responder services.
Nonverbal Communication: Horses communicate primarily through body language and energy. This ability bypasses the cognitive defenses and storytelling that often dominate traditional talk therapy. Horse-assisted therapy allows individuals to access and process emotions that may be difficult to articulate verbally.
Embodied Experience: Trauma doesn’t just live in the mind—it’s stored in the body (van der Kolk, 2014). Equine therapy directly addresses this by engaging the body through hands-on interactions with horses, helping individuals reconnect with suppressed physical sensations and emotions. For first responders, who often dissociate from their bodies to cope with high-stress environments, this embodied approach offers a powerful antidote: grounding them in the present moment and restoring their ability to feel safe again.
Mirroring and Feedback: Building on nonverbal communication, horses also provide immediate feedback by mirroring emotional states and reflect the emotional state of the humans they interact with. For example, if a person is anxious or closed off, the horse may become hesitant or distant. This immediate feedback helps individuals become more aware of their internal states and learn how to shift them in real time.
Impact on First Responders with PTSD
For first responders who have experienced cumulative trauma and high-stress environments, equine therapy can be transformative. Here’s how it can specifically impact individuals with PTSD.
Building Trust and Safety: First responders often operate in environments where trust is eroded, and hypervigilance becomes a survival mechanism. Working with horses in a safe, nonjudgmental space helps rebuild a sense of safety and trust, both in themselves and in others.
Releasing Emotional Armor: Many first responders develop emotional armor to cope with the demands of their jobs. Horses intuitively sense this armor and gently challenge individuals to let it down. For example, a horse might withdraw from someone who is guarded or nudge a hesitant participant, offering real-time feedback (e.g., mirroring anxiety through restless movement). In this safe space, responders learn to replace emotional barriers with authenticity, allowing vulnerability and strength to coexist. For those accustomed to suppressing emotions, this process is transformative: it rebuilds the capacity to feel deeply, a cornerstone of healing.
Learning Regulation Tools: Equine therapy provides practical tools for regulating the nervous system. For example, some people learn from the horses how to release pent-up energy and anxiety in healthy ways, such as through movement and grounding exercises. Or participants might practice grounding exercises, such as synchronized breathing with the horse, to release anxiety. These tools can be applied in daily life to manage stress and prevent burnout.
Finding Meaning and Connection: Trauma can leave individuals feeling isolated and disconnected from themselves and others. Horses, with their intuitive and empathetic nature, help individuals reconnect with their sense of purpose and belonging. For some responders they have become a symbol of resilience and hope, reminding them that healing is possible even after profound trauma.
Empowerment and Agency: Equine therapy emphasizes choice and agency, both for the horse and the participant. This can be particularly empowering for first responders who may feel a loss of control in their work or personal lives. By learning to build a partnership with a horse, individuals regain a sense of agency and confidence.
Healing from trauma is a deeply personal journey, but it doesn’t have to be walked alone. Horses, with their innate sensitivity and strength, offer more than therapy—they provide a mirror to our emotions and a bridge to our deepest selves. For first responders burdened by PTSD, equine therapy at Horse Sense North is not just about recovery; it’s a transformative pathway to rediscovering safety, resilience, and the balance between vulnerability and empowerment. Here, horses are more than guides—they are allies, ready to meet you exactly where you are and walk beside you as you reclaim your well-being. The path to renewal is open and the horses are waiting to help you build a future where you can thrive.
Blog Credits:
This blog was guest written by Robert Parry with Renew & Rise Writing in 2025.
Robert Parry left McMaster University and entered the OPP where he served the community he lived in for 25 years as a front line officer and acquired PTSD. As a life-long learner, Robert returned to university after retiring and pursued studies to obtain a BSc in Professional Studies which enhanced his capacity for researching, writing, collaborating and complex thinking. He became a Peer Support Volunteer and is now devoting his abilities to support the wellness professionals who support his community of Emergency Responders with PTSD.
References
Bachi, K. (2013). Equine-facilitated psychotherapy: The gap between practice and knowledge. Society & Animals, 21(2), 170-186.
Concept: Horses, as highly sensitive and intuitive animals, can mirror human emotions and provide immediate, nonjudgmental feedback.
Supporting Research:
"Equine-facilitated psychotherapy (EFP) relies on the horse’s ability to mirror human emotions and respond to nonverbal cues, creating a unique therapeutic environment. Horses, as prey animals, are highly attuned to the emotional states of those around them, providing immediate and honest feedback. This dynamic allows clients to gain insight into their own emotional states and behaviors, fostering self-awareness and emotional regulation."
Bachi, K., Terkel, J., & Teichman, M. (2012). Equine-facilitated psychotherapy for at-risk adolescents: The influence on self-image, self-control, and trust. Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 17(2), 298-312.
Concept: Equine therapy helps individuals build trust, self-control, and self-image, particularly for at-risk populations.
Supporting Research:
"Equine-facilitated psychotherapy (EFP) has been shown to improve self-image, self-control, and trust in at-risk adolescents. The nonjudgmental and responsive nature of horses creates a safe space for participants to explore their emotions and behaviors. Through interactions with horses, adolescents learn to regulate their emotions, build trust in relationships, and develop a more positive self-concept."
Earles, J. L., Vernon, L. L., & Yetz, J. P. (2015). Equine-assisted therapy for anxiety and posttraumatic stress symptoms. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 28(2), 149-152.
Concept: Equine-assisted therapy is effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and PTSD.
Supporting Research:
"Equine-assisted therapy (EAT) has demonstrated significant reductions in symptoms of anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among participants. The calming presence of horses and the structured, yet flexible, nature of equine-assisted activities help individuals regulate their nervous systems and process trauma in a safe and supportive environment."
Ewing, C. A., MacDonald, P. M., Taylor, M., & Bowers, M. J. (2007). Equine-facilitated learning for youths with mental health challenges. Child and Youth Care Forum, 36(1), 1-19.
Concept: Equine-facilitated learning promotes emotional growth and personal development in youths with mental health challenges.
Supporting Research:
"Equine-facilitated learning (EFL) provides a unique opportunity for youths with mental health challenges to develop emotional regulation, social skills, and self-confidence. The experiential nature of working with horses allows participants to engage in hands-on activities that promote personal growth and healing. The bond formed between the youth and the horse fosters a sense of connection and empowerment, which can translate to improved mental health outcomes."
Kabat-Zinn, J. (1990). Full Catastrophe Living: Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress, Pain, and Illness. New York: Delacorte Press.
Concept: Trauma is stored in the body, and working with horses helps individuals reconnect with their physical sensations and emotions.
Supporting Research:
"Mindfulness-based practices, such as those involving somatic awareness, help individuals reconnect with their bodies and process trauma. By focusing on the present moment and bodily sensations, individuals can begin to heal from the physical and emotional impacts of stress and trauma."
Kern-Godal, A., Arnevik, E. A., Walderhaug, E., & Ravndal, E. (2016). Substance use disorder treatment retention and completion: A prospective study of horse-assisted therapy (HAT) for young adults. Addiction Science & Clinical Practice, 11(1), 1-10.
Concept: Equine-assisted therapy improves treatment retention and completion rates for individuals with substance use disorders.
Supporting Research:
"Horse-assisted therapy (HAT) has been shown to improve treatment retention and completion rates among young adults with substance use disorders. The unique bond formed between participants and horses fosters motivation, engagement, and emotional healing, which are critical for long-term recovery."
Klontz, B. T., Bivens, A., Leinart, D., & Klontz, T. (2007). The effectiveness of equine-assisted experiential therapy: Results of an open clinical trial. Society & Animals, 15(3), 257-267.
Concept: Equine-assisted experiential therapy is effective in promoting emotional growth and healing.
Supporting Research:
"Equine-assisted experiential therapy (EAET) has demonstrated significant improvements in emotional well-being, self-awareness, and interpersonal relationships. The experiential nature of working with horses allows participants to process emotions and develop new coping strategies in a supportive environment."
Lanning, B. A., & Krenek, N. (2013). Examining effects of equine-assisted activities to help combat veterans improve quality of life. Journal of Rehabilitation Research & Development, 50(8), vii-x.
Concept: Equine-assisted activities improve quality of life for combat veterans with PTSD.
Supporting Research:
"Equine-assisted activities (EAA) have been shown to improve quality of life for combat veterans with PTSD. The calming presence of horses and the structured activities help veterans regulate their emotions, build trust, and reconnect with a sense of purpose and belonging."
Meinersmann, K. M., Bradberry, J., & Roberts, F. B. (2008). Equine-facilitated psychotherapy with adult female survivors of abuse. Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 46(12), 36-42.
Concept: Equine-facilitated psychotherapy helps adult female survivors of abuse process trauma and rebuild trust.
Supporting Research:
"Equine-facilitated psychotherapy (EFP) has been effective in helping adult female survivors of abuse process trauma and rebuild trust. The nonjudgmental and responsive nature of horses creates a safe space for participants to explore their emotions and develop healthier coping mechanisms."
Nurenberg, J. R., Schleifer, S. J., Shaffer, T. M., Yellin, M., Desai, P. J., & Amin, R. (2015). Animal-assisted therapy with chronic psychiatric inpatients: Equine-assisted psychotherapy and aggressive behavior. Psychiatric Services, 66(1), 80-86.
Concept: Equine-assisted psychotherapy reduces aggressive behavior in chronic psychiatric inpatients.
Supporting Research:
"Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) has been shown to reduce aggressive behavior in chronic psychiatric inpatients. The calming presence of horses and the structured interactions help patients regulate their emotions and develop healthier ways of expressing themselves."
Pendry, P., & Roeter, S. (2013). Experimental trial demonstrates positive effects of equine-assisted learning on child social competence. Human-Animal Interaction Bulletin, 1(1), 1-19.
Concept: Equine-assisted learning improves social competence in children.
Supporting Research:
"Equine-assisted learning (EAL) has been shown to improve social competence in children. The structured activities and interactions with horses help children develop communication skills, empathy, and emotional regulation, which are critical for healthy social development."
Pendry, P., Smith, A. N., & Roeter, S. M. (2014). Randomized trial examines effects of equine-assisted learning on adolescents’ basal cortisol levels. Human-Animal Interaction Bulletin, 2(1), 80-95.
Concept: Equine-assisted learning reduces stress and promotes emotional regulation in adolescents.
Supporting Research:
"Equine-assisted learning (EAL) has been shown to reduce basal cortisol levels in adolescents, indicating a reduction in stress. The calming presence of horses and the structured activities help adolescents regulate their emotions and develop healthier coping strategies."
Porges, S. W. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-regulation. New York: W.W. Norton & Company.
Concept: Polyvagal theory explains how horses help regulate the human nervous system.
Supporting Research:
"Polyvagal theory provides a framework for understanding how interactions with horses can regulate the human nervous system. The calming presence of horses activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a sense of safety and emotional regulation."
van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. New York: Viking.
Concept: Trauma is stored in the body, and working with horses helps individuals reconnect with their physical sensations and emotions.
Supporting Research:
"Trauma is stored in the body, and healing requires reconnecting with physical sensations and emotions. Equine-assisted therapy provides a unique opportunity for individuals to process trauma through embodied experiences and nonverbal interactions with horses."
Yorke, J., Adams, C., & Coady, N. (2013). Therapeutic value of equine-human bonding in recovery from trauma. Anthrozoös, 26(1), 1-15.
Concept: Equine-human bonding promotes healing and recovery from trauma.
Supporting Research:
"The therapeutic value of equine-human bonding lies in its ability to promote healing and recovery from trauma. The nonjudgmental and responsive nature of horses creates a safe space for individuals to process emotions, build trust, and develop healthier coping mechanisms."
