Equine related therapy has been proven as effective recreational therapy for a number of both physical and mental disabilities. People with physical disabilities benefit from specific activities, such as therapeutic riding, mounted or ground activities where clients, instructors and horses are involved. For individuals suffering from mental health issues, utilizing a horse’s innate ability to read human emotions and state of mind helps them to grow in a safe environment.
Students in this program will learn both the animal handling and the social work skills needed to create therapy programs involving horses. It will also give them the preparation needed to pursue an Equine-Assisted Activity Therapy (EAAT) or Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) certificate in the future.
Program Highlights
• Community Programs - We have partnered with various social work and equestrian agencies in the community where our students will gain hands-on experience in working with patients and horses.
• Licensure - Students in this program will graduate with two bachelor degrees and will be eligible to take the Social Work License exam, which is needed to work as a social worker in the state of Ohio
• EAAT - Helps with disabilities including, but not limited to cerebral palsy, autism, Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy, paralysis, brain injuries, and multiple sclerosis
• EAP - Helps with conditions such as depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, behavioral issues, substance abuse, and eating disorders
“The University of Findlay allowed me to customize my learning experience to best benefit me and my future. Being able to dual major in Social Work and Equestrian Studies, the two important areas in my life, I was able to combine my passion for both working with horses and helping others. This created a wider field of reference when looking for employment opportunities following graduation”
Lauren Burke
Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and Bachelor of Science in Equestrian Studies '12