The Benefits of Equine Assisted Therapy - What Does the Research Say?

In recent years, equine-assisted therapy has gained increasing recognition as an innovative approach to supporting mental health, personal development and emotional wellbeing. From schools and rehabilitation programmes to healthcare settings and corporate organisations, more people are discovering the unique impact that horses can have on learning and personal growth.

But what makes horses so effective, and what does the research actually tell us?

Picture: Working with horses has been shown to increase wellbeing.

What Is Equine-Assisted Therapy?

Equine-assisted therapy is an umbrella term describing a range of structured interventions that involve interactions with horses to support psychological, emotional or physical outcomes. Depending on the programme, sessions may be delivered by therapists, mental health professionals, coaches or equine specialists.

At Guided Strides, we provide equine-assisted learning (EAL)—a ground-based approach that uses practical activities with horses to develop confidence, communication, resilience and self-awareness. While EAL is not psychotherapy, it shares many of the same goals of promoting personal growth and emotional wellbeing through guided experiential learning.

Why Horses?

Horses are naturally observant animals. As prey animals, they have evolved to notice subtle changes in body language, movement and behaviour to help keep themselves safe.

Unlike people, horses don't respond to social status, appearance or reputation. Instead, they react to what they observe in the present moment. This creates opportunities for honest, immediate feedback that encourages participants to reflect on how they communicate, regulate emotions and approach challenges.

Their size, sensitivity and calm presence also encourage us to slow down, remain focused and become more aware of ourselves.

The Psychological Benefits

Although research is still developing, systematic reviews suggest that equine-assisted interventions may support improvements in several areas of psychological wellbeing.

Building Confidence

Successfully working with a horse—whether through grooming, leading or completing a challenge—can foster a genuine sense of achievement. Many participants report increased confidence and a greater belief in their own abilities after completing equine-assisted programmes.

Rather than confidence being something we talk about, it becomes something people experience.

Developing Emotional Awareness

Horses communicate almost entirely through non-verbal behaviour. Learning to recognise their body language encourages participants to become more aware of their own emotions, behaviour and communication style.

This increased self-awareness can support emotional regulation both during sessions and in everyday life.

Improving Communication

Working alongside a horse requires patience, consistency and clear communication. Participants quickly discover that effective communication is about far more than words—it includes posture, intention, timing and confidence.

These insights often transfer into relationships at home, work and school.

Strengthening Resilience

Not every activity works perfectly the first time.

Participants are encouraged to adapt, reflect and try different approaches, developing perseverance, flexibility and problem-solving skills in a supportive environment where mistakes become opportunities to learn.

The Social Benefits

Equine-assisted programmes are frequently delivered in small groups, creating opportunities to develop:

• Trust

• Teamwork

• Leadership

• Empathy

• Active listening

• Collaboration

Many activities require participants to work together towards a shared goal, helping strengthen relationships and communication in a natural and engaging way.

The Benefits of Being Outdoors

Sessions take place in a calm outdoor environment, away from the pressures of everyday life.

Time spent in nature has itself been associated with reduced stress, improved mood and greater psychological wellbeing. While it's difficult for researchers to separate the effects of nature from those of interacting with horses, many participants describe the combination as restorative and grounding.

What Does the Research Say?

The scientific evidence surrounding equine-assisted interventions continues to grow.

Recent systematic reviews have found promising evidence that equine-assisted interventions may improve:

• Self-confidence and self-esteem

• Emotional regulation

• Self-efficacy

• Psychological wellbeing

• Social functioning

• Communication skills

• Quality of life

Researchers also emphasise that the field would benefit from more large, well-designed studies to better understand which approaches work best and for whom. This means it's important to view equine-assisted therapy as a promising, evidence-informed approach rather than a standalone solution for every individual or condition.

Is Equine-Assisted Therapy Right for You?

Equine-assisted therapy and learning can benefit a wide range of people, including those seeking:

• Greater confidence

• Improved emotional wellbeing

• Personal development

• Better communication skills

• Stronger relationships

• Leadership development

• Team-building experiences

No previous horse experience is required, and sessions are adapted to suit each individual or group.

How Guided Strides Can Help

At Guided Strides, we believe meaningful learning happens through meaningful experiences.

Our ground-based equine-assisted learning sessions are carefully designed to help people develop confidence, resilience, emotional awareness and practical life skills in a safe, supportive environment.

Whether you're an individual looking to invest in your personal growth, a school supporting young people, or an organisation seeking a fresh approach to wellbeing and team development, we'd love to help you discover the unique benefits of learning alongside horses.

Ready to take your first stride?Contact us today to find out more about our individual sessions, group programmes and bespoke equine-assisted learning experiences.

Picture: Horses can foster skills in connection, confidence and mindfulness.

References

Anestis, M. D., Anestis, J. C., Zawilinski, L. L., Hopkins, T. A., & Lilienfeld, S. O. (2014). Equine-related treatments for mental disorders lack empirical support: A systematic review of empirical investigations. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 70(12), 1115–1132.

Kendall, E., Maujean, A., Pepping, C. A., Wright, J. J., Crisp, G., Schofield, G., & Hudson, S. (2015). A systematic review of the efficacy of equine-assisted interventions on psychological outcomes. European Journal of Psychotherapy & Counselling, 17(1), 57–79.

Provan, M., Ahmed, Z., & Stevens, A. R. (2024). Are equine-assisted services beneficial for military veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder? A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Psychiatry, 24, 544.