Equine Facilitated Therapy for Children and Adolescents: A Qualitative Pilot Study

ABSTRACT

Despite recent growth in the use of equine facilitated therapy (EFT), and its potential to be an effective alternative to traditional therapeutic interventions, the literature has not yet provided a convincing explanatory account of the practices implemented within EFT. In this study, the author investigates consistency of clinical practices within the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (EAGALA) model of EFT. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with mental health professionals and equine specialists (N = 10) from six Australian EFT clinics. Thematic analysis of data revealed: an absence of an underpinning theoretical model; variations between clinical practices; lack of parental involvement in therapy for children/adolescents; and inadequate research into perceived mechanisms of change driving EFT. This article concludes with a set of recommendations directed at EFT practitioners in order to increase the rigor of practice and maximize the potential of this intervention.

KEYWORDS:

• Alternative therapies
• animal assisted therapy
• creativity in counseling
• equine facilitated therapy
• mental health
• thematic analysis

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Josephine McNamara

Josephine McNamara completed a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) in 2015 at the University of Wollongong and is currently completing a Masters of Psychology (Clinical) at the University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia.