Connecticut Equine Therapy Rehab Centers
In the state of Connecticut, it is believed that 264,000 individuals suffer from dependency to illegal drugs or alcohol, but do not seek treatment for that problem. Now, an alternative form treatment, known as equine therapy, may provide hope for those individuals who are reluctant to seek help for their substance abuse problem.
The state of Connecticut may be small, but its size does not make it immune to substance abuse issues or mental health problems. It is believed, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, that approximately 3.24 percent of the population is currently suffering from some type of serious mental health disorder. Many of those individuals may, in fact, be suffering from a substance abuse issue, but are afraid of getting help.
How Does Equine Therapy Work?
Equine therapy, or horse therapy, pairs an individual up with a trained therapy horse. Each session the individual patient will work directly with the horse and an addiction counselor.
The tasks an individual performs during equine therapy will vary depending upon the program. Sometimes the patient will feed the horse, other times they will care for the horse by grooming its tail or helping to clean the stable.
While performing these actions, a counselor will often talk to the patient about their emotions, what they are thinking and/or feeling, and other issues that may arise. The calming, soothing presence of the horse is believed to help people overcome their addictions.
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Why Equine Therapy Helps During Substance Abuse Treatment
Researchers are still trying to understand exactly why equine therapy has proven so successful in helping individuals overcome their substance abuse problems. Some individuals believe it is because this form of therapy allows patients to calm down and take a deep, long look inside themselves. Others believe it is because working closely with the horse allows patients to accept responsibility for something and that helps them reach new emotional heights.
Another belief is the horse mimics the actions and behaviors of the patient. When this happens, an individual is able to notice negative behaviors and traits that he or she has. Once those traits and behaviors are identified, they can work to adjust and fix them, which leads to eventually overcoming a substance abuse problem.
If you believe equine therapy may be helpful to you or a loved one who is suffering from an alcohol or drug addiction, contact us at RehabCenter.net to learn more about this type of program and to find a facility in your area that offers it.
