Therapeutic Horsemanship: A Literature Review

Alexandria Mercer

Therapeutic Horsemanship, or Equine-Assisted Therapies, is a form of therapy that helps those with disabilities grow and develop in social, physical, and mental ways. Over the years those who have been involved with Therapeutic Horsemanship have discovered the true value of this program as well as the ways it can develop a student. However, far more scholarly research is needed to help define the value and practices of this field. Regardless, a literature review of published research shows the importance of Equine-Assisted Therapies. Using testimonies of those who have firsthand witnessed this form of therapy alongside previous studies can demonstrate the value of Therapeutic Horsemanship and start to develop the exposure that this therapy needs to gain accessibility. There are many challenges to expanding Therapeutic Horsemanship like not enough instructors, facilities, insurance coverage, and more, but providers must be able to show the effectiveness of their programs in order to secure funding for such projects. This literature review will demonstrate the value of Therapeutic Horsemanship but also points out the significant gaps in the research that scholars should address.

• Alexandria Mercer graduated from Marvin Ridge High School in Waxhaw, North Carolina. She is graduating with a major in interdisciplinary studies - early childhood with special needs. Her experiences include working in multiple classrooms within multiple grades, interning at multiple therapeutic facilities, as well as gaining a minor at Lander for therapeutic horsemanship.