New Jersey Equine Therapy Rehab Centers

Treating an addiction to drugs or alcohol requires the right program and solution. In some cases, animal-assisted therapies and equine therapy helps with the recovery process by providing an individual with the tools he or she needs to focus on long-term goals. In New Jersey, more than 6 percent of residents need treatment for alcohol abuse but do not obtain treatment, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Among the residents, almost 8 percent have a mental health disorder that must be addressed with appropriate treatment, explains the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. In some cases, equine therapy helps with the recovery process.

What Is Equine Therapy?

Equine-assisted therapy refers to any treatment that uses horses as a part of the program, explains Psych Central. The treatment plan helps with recovery by providing a safe environment and helping individuals open up about their situation and the factors that cause addiction.

Since substance abuse often stems from a mental health disorder or a traumatic experience, working with horses can help individuals focus on their recovery goals and find realistic solutions for addiction. Caring for a horse and riding the animal during a treatment program provides a sense of purpose and builds up a feeling of trust that breaks down emotional barriers and helps individuals focus on the next step of recovery.

Advantages Of Equine Therapy Treatment

The primary advantages of addiction treatment with equine therapy depend on the individual’s specific needs and goals. In general, the treatment helps with certain mental health conditions and reduces feelings of distrust that develop after a traumatic experience.

Benefits of equine-assisted therapy include:

• Reducing symptoms of depression
• Improving personal self-esteem
• Improving self-confidence
• Reducing feelings of distrust
• Opening up to a professional treatment specialist in a safe environment
• Feeling safe during a treatment program
• Reducing feelings of anxiety
• Recognizing negative thought processes
• Altering behavior patterns

Horses react to personal emotions and actions, so individuals must behave in an appropriate manner to prevent a horse from shying away. They reflect personal behaviors and emotional states so that individuals and counseling professionals gain insight into personal thought processes. A horse allows individuals to learn when certain words, phrases or ideas cause distress. The horse therapy also helps with rebuilding physical strength and wellness due to the exercise programs.

Finding A Program And Getting Help

Addiction recovery takes time and often requires an in-patient treatment program. Finding the right program with the help of RehabCenter.net provides a chance to reach personal goals and start working toward realistic recovery results in New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more and get the help you need.