ABSTRACT
Equine-assisted services have emerged as an effective complementary or alternative modality in many helping professions. Equine-assisted social work has not been studied carefully. This qualitative study examined the experiences of Master’s level social workers certified in equine-assisted services (n = 12). Interviews were analyzed, using thematic analysis. Three themes emerged that were supported by rich and detailed experiences of social workers practicing in the field of equine-assisted services. Overall, the study results reflected the need to improve in three areas: (1) developing the core knowledge and skills necessary for equine-assisted social work; (2) enhancing ethics of equine-assisted social work; and (3) creating a competency framework of equine-assisted social work. Increasing acceptance of equine-assisted social work has implications for current and future social workers in practice and education. Future research is needed to improve the structure and utility of equine-assisted social work.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.