Equine Therapy For Addiction Is A Positive Move For Addiction Therapy

Addiction can happen to anyone, anywhere. Through the years many types of therapy has been incorporated in rehab centers. Many of them utilize the 12 step program or a program similar to it. Rehabilitation centers sometimes utilize several different types of therapy to aid in the recovery of their participants. There is no one tried and true method to overcoming addictions. Many that suffer from addictions also have other contributing factors to their addictions. Depression, low self esteem and anxiety are found to be additional symptoms or precursors to addiction.

One area being utilized is drug rehab with horses. Animals have been used for many types of therapy and many people benefit from having pets in their lives. A rehab horse ranch incorporates aspects of a traditional program such as the use of 12 step program with that of incorporating animal therapy as well. Animals often soothe and relax individuals. Participants that are relaxed are better equipped to receive positive therapy from therapist and other rehabilitation professionals.

Equine therapy for addiction is not a new practice, but more widely acknowledged as an acceptable method than in the past. Addicts learn personal development skills while caring for the needs of the horses. They feed them, groom them and see to their exercise routine. Rarely do participants ride the horses in most horse rehab programs. Often the horses have been sent there because of old age or accidents that have made it impossible to ride them. Caring for the horses aids participants to focus on the needs of the horse while gaining control and the ability to deal with life's problems, addition free.

This therapy works well because it gives addicts something to focus on that is not part of their problem. It takes the focus off of their needs and problems while they are caring for the horse. When rehab horse ranches combine horse therapy with counseling and other methods of therapy most participates are able to start their journey to wellness. Many have found relief from not only addiction but depression, anxiety and disorders such as post traumatic stress disorder and various personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder. Caring for the gentle animals bring about a sense of accomplishment that many addicts have never experienced. Gaining the trust and unconditional love of the horse can give them a feeling of self worth.