Comparing Equine-Assisted and Canine-Assisted Psychotherapy

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Animal-assisted psychotherapy (AAP) is an innovative form of counseling that includes animals as an integral part of the counseling process. It leverages the principles of the human-animal bond to create a rich environment for therapeutic dialogue, emotional growth, and behavioral change.

The presence of animals in mental health treatment can help clients recognize, process, and express emotions and facilitate the development of interpersonal skills. Further, therapeutic encounters with animals can provide a nonjudgmental outlet for clients to explore their issues without fear of criticism or judgment. AAP has been found to benefit individuals with many mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress.

In the United States, various species can be registered as therapy animals and have a role in counseling interventions. However, the most prevalent forms of AAP are equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) and canine-assisted psychotherapy (CAP). Both modalities offer unique benefits, and their distinct differences are rooted in each species’ natural behaviors and roles.

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy

EAP is an experiential modality, meaning that clients learn about themselves by participating in activities with horses and then discussing their feelings, behaviors, and patterns with the therapist. It has been used to treat clients with various psychological and behavioral issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship problems, and communication challenges.

According to Paula J. Smith, a licensed clinical social worker at Warriors Wellness and Recovery Ranch, a benefit of EAP is working outdoors or in a large arena. She suggests that physically moving with and among the horses helps clients feel grounded, improving their emotional awareness, stress tolerance, and problem-solving skills.

Smith explains that horses, with their innate sensitivity to human emotions and nonverbal cues, provide "honest feedback" with their body language. As prey animals, they are sensitive to emotional energy and are likely to avoid or create distance from those who appear anxious, angry, or distressed. For example, a client who "just wants to be left alone" may discover that the horse intuitively senses their feelings and will choose not to approach them. This experience can help clients develop insight into the impact of their emotional energy. It can also help them to identify and process emotions that might otherwise be difficult to recognize or express.

Dr. Linda Chassman, co-founder and executive director of the Animal Assisted Therapy Programs of Colorado, agrees. She reports, "The horses act like a mirror, reflecting the client as they are, not as they want to be seen." She identifies another benefit of EAP as deriving from the horse who is "cautious and thinking about its safety" in client interactions. Ultimately, Chassman concludes, "The work is powerful because the client must make changes during the session to be successful with the task, rather than talking about changing, as often happens in traditional therapy."

Ground work, a fundamental aspect of EAP, allows individuals to interact directly and safely with horses without riding them. Clients may groom, lead, and position a horse during ground work sessions. These activities help clients build trust, self-confidence, and insight while developing their emotional awareness, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills.

In addition to the physical activities associated with EAP, clients can engage in mindfulness and relaxation exercises. Mindfulness activities can help clients become more aware of their thoughts and feelings while improving their ability to stay present in the moment. Relaxation activities can reduce stress and improve a subjective sense of peace and well-being. Both promote a recovery mindset in clients with anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and other mental health concerns.

EAP is not without its disadvantages, however. Smith, the social worker at Warrior's Wellness and Recovery Ranch, notes that adverse weather conditions may impede its effectiveness, stating, "Being physically uncomfortable can be a barrier to good therapy." Moreover, EAP often incurs high costs due to horses' space and maintenance needs. Chassman, from the Animal Assisted Therapy Programs of Colorado, points out that these services can be more expensive than traditional psychotherapy because "the client is paying for more than an office and the clinician's time and expertise." As a result, EAP might be cost-prohibitive for self-funded clients with limited financial resources.

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Canine-Assisted Psychotherapy

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CAP is another form of AAP that includes specially-trained therapy dogs in the counseling process. It is based on the belief that dogs, with their unconditional love and loyalty, can be valuable partners for clients in psychotherapy.

As our oldest friends in the animal kingdom, domesticated dogs have been conditioned for over 10,000 years to trust and work collaboratively with humans (Cirulli et al., 2011). Although humans and canids are both predators, our ancient alliance has shaped their evolution, resulting in modern dogs' sensitivity and responsiveness to human behaviors, emotions, eye contact, help-seeking, and other forms of communicative expression.

Therapy dogs are selected for two prized traits from among many pro-social characteristics. Biddability refers to their willingness to accept human leadership and prioritize human companionship. This trait prepares therapy dogs to accept the socialization and obedience training that makes them reliable, trustworthy therapeutic companions. Affiliativeness refers to therapy dogs' interest in and curiosity about people outside their immediate family. This characteristic aids them to interact confidently with unfamiliar others and participate with them in therapeutic activities.

CAP is a wonderfully flexible modality; it can be conducted in inpatient and outpatient settings, indoors and out, with individuals, groups, or families. Activities may include petting, walking, playing with the dog, or teaching it new tricks and skills. These exercises can help clients to build trust and facilitate therapeutic rapport. Research has found that canine-assisted interventions can reduce anxiety, improve self-esteem, encourage socialization, and provide emotional support.

CAP also offers numerous physical benefits. Walking or playing with a dog can improve cardiovascular health and fitness, and therapeutic interactions with dogs can promote relaxation, lower blood pressure, and reduce stress.

Despite its many benefits, CAP is not a good fit for everyone. Other therapeutic approaches would better serve clients with allergies, those who fear dogs, or those with a history of animal abuse. Cultural norms shape individual views of animals and their suitability in therapeutic settings. For example, CAP is prevalent in Western Europe and the United States, indicating a Western viewpoint that companion dogs are loved and valued as full-fledged family members. By contrast, attitudes toward dogs in some Asian and Middle Eastern societies can vary greatly, with dogs sometimes seen as nuisances or food sources (Podberscek, 2009).

Comparing Equine- and Canine-Assisted Psychotherapy Approaches

One of the primary differences between EAP and CAP is the size and physical presence of the animals involved. Horses can be both intimidating and awe-inspiring for clients; those who earn a horse's trust will likely feel significant personal satisfaction and accomplishment. Conversely, with their smaller size and eagerness for connection, dogs may provide a more immediate sense of acceptance, security, and reassurance.

Another critical difference between the two approaches is the level of physical activity required. EAP typically requires walking and standing for at least half an hour outdoors, which can benefit clients seeking to improve their fitness. On the other hand, CAP typically involves less strenuous activity. Therapeutic interventions often include walking or training the dog, but clients can also interact with the dog while seated, making it a physically accessible option for clients with mobility challenges, reduced stamina, and other health concerns.

Factors to Consider

Several factors should be considered when deciding which form of AAP to pursue.

Personal preference: A positive connection with the animal involved is crucial to the success of AAP. Prospective clients should consider the type of animal they feel most comfortable with. They should also evaluate the availability, location, and cost of services.

Therapeutic goals: Clients should consider their specific therapeutic goals and needs when selecting an AAP modality. Some may find the physicality of EAP more conducive to their goals, while others may prefer the accessibility of CAP.

Professional expertise: It is crucial to seek a qualified and experienced therapist specializing in the chosen AAP modality. Prospective clients should carefully research potential therapists, exploring their education, training, and professional affiliations.

It is perfectly appropriate to ask therapists about their AAP qualifications and credentials. It is also wise to inquire about their membership in formal organizations supporting animal-assisted interventions, such as EAGALA, the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association, and AAAIP, the Association of Animal-Assisted Intervention Professionals. Membership in organizations dedicated to animal-assisted therapy and the human-animal bond indicates the therapist's commitment to continuous education and training, ensuring they offer high-quality services to their clients.

To find a therapist, please visit the Psychology Today Therapy Directory.