Research is growing in this field and there are various populations and measures of life quality, life skills and mental health functioning that have been explored. Here is a link to a summary at Psychology Today for those interested in learning more about the benefits of EFW, pertaining to children in particular. Psychology Today
There are benefits in all ages of clients with conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, addictions, trauma, dementias and other mental health difficulties. There are also reports of clients without mental health diagnoses experiencing confidence, insight and capacity to bond with others after sessions in equine facilitated wellness.
Here is a review of the positive impacts of EAL on at-risk youth written by Dr. Brodhecker.
EFW Resources
- Professional Association for Equine Facilitated Wellness (Pro EFW) EquineFacilitatedWellness.org
- Healing Hooves Equine and Animal Assisted Therapy HealingHooves.ca