Equine-Assisted Therapy Pilot Program: A Post-Participation Study of Client Satisfaction

Abstract

Equine-assisted therapy (EAT) is an emerging practice area that has been shown to decrease negative symptoms in individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While the research for equine-assisted therapy demonstrates effectiveness in decreasing PTSD symptoms, there is a lack of evidence to verify client satisfaction. The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to evaluate participant satisfaction using the eight-question “Client Satisfaction Survey” and compose recommendations based on participant feedback from a focus group after completing an Equine-Assisted Therapy Post-traumatic stress disorder (EAT-PTSD) program. Two participants attended an EAT-PTSD program that utilized the protocol developed by the Man O’ War project. Both participants attended all sessions and completed pre- and post-measures including the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist Criterion Assessment, the 16-item Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report, informal numerical anxiety ratings, and a focus group for evaluation of program satisfaction and future recommendations. The results show that completion of an EAT-PTSD program decreases negative PTSD symptoms. Additionally, participants had an overall high satisfaction rate after completion of an EAT-PTSD program. Recommendations from program participants for future program delivery include increasing program length, using additional resources like talk and group therapy, and recruiting more participants to take part in the program.