Equine Therapy at Summit Malibu has proven to be a valuable resource for treating drug and alcohol addiction along with many types of mental health conditions.
It is a beneficial part of our non 12 step recovery program for healing the mind, body, and soul.
Horses possess a unique emotional intelligence that makes them especially observant and sensitive to negative feelings. Individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and substance use addiction have a tendency to become isolated from others.
Horse therapy, or equine therapy, has an amazing ability to take these individuals out of their unhealthy environment and create a positive interaction with the world around them.
Summit Malibu residents who feel uncomfortable with a traditional therapy setting discover our equine therapy in Malibu is a fun and safe environment where they can open up and develop trust with the horses, their therapists, and themselves.
The non-judgmental nature of horses helps our residents develop the compassion, confidence, and self-esteem to silence their negative and self-defeating thoughts.
Equine Therapy is Effective for Treating Many Conditions
Equine Therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders is a powerful recovery tool for overcoming these mental health issues that commonly co-occur with drug or alcohol dependence and addiction.
Horse Therapy is successful for treating and improving:
- Substance Use Addiction and Dependence
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Mood Disorders
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Trauma Disorders
- Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD and ADHD)
- Behavioral and Trust Issues
Advantages of Equine Therapy
Equine Therapy offers a calm and nurturing environment that is unlike any other type of therapy.
For many of our residents, bonding with horses provides an immediate and effortless way to form a healing connection that enhances emotional growth in recovery.
Working with horses outside in the fresh air and sunlight is beneficial for both mental and physical health and improves mood and overall wellbeing.
Grooming, riding, and caring for horses instills a sense of responsibility that develops social skills, non-verbal communication, and helps build relationships.
Other benefits include:
- Reduces stress, anxiety, and worry
- Builds trust and improves impulse control
- Promotes balance and coordination
- Helps process traumatic memories
- Positively regulates emotions
- Heightens focus and self-awareness
- Teaches mindfulness and being present
Moreover, studies show that the real benefits of equine therapy extend well beyond the interaction between human and animal.
The skills learned through this unique therapeutic method can help Summit residents struggling with substance abuse have more patience, explore new things, and feel accepted as a person without the negative stigma tied to their addiction.
To learn more about Equine Therapy at Summit Malibu, contact us at (310) 742-1882.
