Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Military Veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Category
Sciences and Technology
Department
Criminal Justice & Psychology
Student Status
Undergraduate
Research Advisor
Dr. Gary Wilson, Dr. Julie Allision
Document Type
Event
Location
Kansas 2
Start Date
10-4-2025 11:00 AM
End Date
10-4-2025 11:00 AM
Description
This study explores the effectiveness of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy [EAP] as a treatment for military veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder [PTSD]. PTSD is a prevalent and debilitating disorder among veterans, often resulting from exposure to combat trauma. This research aims to evaluate whether EAP, which utilizes Bilateral Stimulation [BLS] through horse's movement, can provide a viable alternative or supplement to conventional treatments. The study involved 17 veterans who completed a questionnaire regarding their PTSD symptoms, treatment experiences, and interest in EAP. The research findings revealed that veterans who participated in EAP showed significant improvements in their psychological well-being, with many expressing interest in pursuing the therapy further. In comparison, those who had used EMDR also reported success with this treatment, suggesting a positive correlation between BLS therapies and PTSD symptom reduction. The study concludes that EAP, in combination with EMDR, may offer a promising therapeutic approach for veterans with PTSD, emphasizing the need for further research into alternative treatments for this population.
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Military Veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Kansas 2
This study explores the effectiveness of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy [EAP] as a treatment for military veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder [PTSD]. PTSD is a prevalent and debilitating disorder among veterans, often resulting from exposure to combat trauma. This research aims to evaluate whether EAP, which utilizes Bilateral Stimulation [BLS] through horse's movement, can provide a viable alternative or supplement to conventional treatments. The study involved 17 veterans who completed a questionnaire regarding their PTSD symptoms, treatment experiences, and interest in EAP. The research findings revealed that veterans who participated in EAP showed significant improvements in their psychological well-being, with many expressing interest in pursuing the therapy further. In comparison, those who had used EMDR also reported success with this treatment, suggesting a positive correlation between BLS therapies and PTSD symptom reduction. The study concludes that EAP, in combination with EMDR, may offer a promising therapeutic approach for veterans with PTSD, emphasizing the need for further research into alternative treatments for this population.
