Equine-Assisted Therapy as a Complementary Approach for Adolescents with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder: A Preliminary Study After a Terrorist Attack

Abstract

Equine-Assisted Therapy (EAT) is a complementary therapeutic approach for children and adolescents with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and recent scientific studies show the benefits. Therapy with the mediation of the horse facilitates the therapeutic alliance and improves social skills, emotional regulation, and resilience. The purpose of this study is to describe goals, modalities, and benefits of equine-assisted therapy for adolescents with PTSD, and to analyze how and why these results are obtained. Ten EAT sessions were offered to two adolescents with PTSD following a terrorist attack. According to the observed symptoms, the therapeutic objectives and modalities are established and described. The evaluation is based on a self-evaluation by the adolescents, and on an EAT observation grid. The results show a positive evolution, with a very strong alliance and participation. Equine-assisted therapy facilitated adherence to care, improved socio-emotional and cognitive functioning, helped regulation in behavior and emotions, restored confidence and self esteem, and provided wellness. Understanding the action of EAT for children and adolescent with posttraumatic stress disorder helps to explain the benefits and effectiveness of this complementary therapy. The factors involved are analyzed according to several approaches: psycho-affective, cognitive, social, neurobiological, and therapeutic. Studies need to be continued with larger samples to obtain evidence-based data and to validate the results of equine-assisted therapy in adolescents with PTSD.