Resources

“Health professionals say horses can reflect our emotions to bring relief from addiction and stress” (McVeigh, 2012)

This article addresses the use of Equine Therapy with a variety of populations. It discusses the importance of the horse in the therapeutic process, outlining the unique healing properties the horse offers. It also references the research we do have regarding the impact horses can have on a human’s nervous system and brain waves.

McVeigh, T. (2012, February 25). Not just horsing around…psychologists put their faith in equine therapy. Retrieved from http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2012/feb/26/horses-therapists-stress-autism-addiction?intcmp=239

“Those of us who own pets know they make us happy. But a growing body of scientific research is showing that our pets can also make us healthy, or healthier.” (Rovner, 2012)

This article discusses the use of animals in therapy and medical settings. It references research done through the years that shows the benefits of using animals for health and therapy practices. It references a particular equine therapy success story while outlining the potential biological reasoning behind this healthy connection.

Rovner, J. (2012, March 5). Pet therapy: How animals and humans heal each other. Retrieved from http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2012/03/09/146583986/pet-therapy-how-animals-and-humans-heal-each-other

“So in other words it all comes down to the fact that we can’t change our craving nature but we CAN change the nature of what we crave.” (Francis, 2010)

This article discusses two main chemicals in our brains, serotonin and dopamine, both of which help us to feel satisfied and happy. When we have deficits of these naturally occurring brain chemicals we can suffer from mood swings, coping issues, depression, anxiety and more. This article links gardening to increases in serotonin and dopamine in the brain. It also includes links to other articles with more research to support these findings.

Francis, R. (2010). Why gardening makes you happy and cures depression. Retrieved from http://permaculture.com.au/online/articles/why-gardening-makes-you-happy-and-cures-depression

“It’s more about self-confidence and communication skills. There is a confidence that comes from succeeding in a new experience and doing something they wouldn’t ordinarily do.” (Ribeiro-de Sa, 2008)

This article discusses the use of Equine Therapy with adolescents and how it can be effective. It references a research study done on adolescents who attended Equine Therapy. It also touches on the reason why Equine Therapy trusts in the organic process of relationship between a horse and a human.

Finley, B. (2008, March 09). Horse therapy for the troubled. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/09/nyregion/nyregionspecial2/09horsenj.html?_r=0

“That’s where the therapy comes in. It’s what the therapist adds to the child’s play.” (Mills, 2006)

This article discusses the use of Play Therapy in hospitals, to help children deal with medical trauma. It addresses one particular child’s journey and the success she had in her Play Therapy process. It also references different populations that Play Therapy can work with, and the different approaches that might be used.

Mills, R. (2006, January 09). Play therapy. Retrieved from http://www.wbhm.org/News/2005/playtherapy.html