26/01/2025
How does equine assisted therapy support people with Autism?
So many people with autism are drawn to working with the horses to support their personal development, healing and self awareness. (In order to respect different people's preferences, throughout the post we have included both identity first language- autistic person and person first language- person with autism).
Here are some reasons why equine assisted therapy is such a supportive and accessible way for autistic people to engage in therapy.
🐎 Building Social Skills:�
Horses are exceptional companions for individuals with autism because they communicate non-verbally, making interactions with them less intimidating. Through equine-assisted therapy, participants learn to interpret a horse’s body language and reactions, which can parallel human non-verbal cues. Activities such as approaching a horse, just being with a horse and chilling out, leading a horse, grooming, or observing herd behaviour create opportunities to practice communication, develop social confidence, and strengthen emotional regulation and relationship skills in a natural, stress-free setting.
🐎 Reducing Anxiety�:
Horses offer a grounding presence that helps autistic individuals manage anxiety. Whether through watching the horses as they graze, breathing alongside the horses, feeling the soothing rhythm of grooming, the gentle sway of walking beside a horse or simply being in the horse’s tranquil environment, clients often experience reduced stress levels. For those with sensory sensitivities, spending time with horses provides a calming sensory experience, free from the overwhelming stimuli of daily life.
🐎 Encouraging Flexibility:�
Many individuals with autism rely on routines for a sense of security, but life is full of unexpected changes. Working with horses introduces small, manageable shifts in routines. For example, a horse might react unpredictably or require a slight change in the planned activity, such as adjusting how a halter is fitted. These moments allow clients to practice adaptability in a supportive, low-pressure environment, gradually increasing their tolerance for change.
🐎 Fostering Empathy:
Horses require care, attention, and understanding, making them ideal partners for fostering empathy. Horses often require time and attuned attention to feel comfortable in relationship with clients, this gives clients permission to require the same in relationships. Tasks such as feeding, brushing, and observing the horse’s needs teach clients to consider the feelings and experiences of another being. For individuals with autism, who may find emotional connections challenging, these interactions build awareness and provide a safe space to explore relationships.
🐎 Sensory Integration:
Some autistic individuals encounter challenges in processing sensory input, and many horses appear to share similar sensitivities. Horses often respond positively when clients take the time to slow down and engage with them thoughtfully. Activities such as observing the horse from a distance before approaching, and becoming curious about the horse's current state, can help establish a sense of mutual understanding. Gradually checking in with where the horse prefers or dislikes being touched fosters a safer, more trusting relationship between the horse and the client. This process can also offer autistic individuals valuable insights into their own sensory preferences and boundaries.
Interacting with horses naturally engages the senses. Whether it’s watching them move in the paddock, brushing their coat, feeling the texture of their mane, or walking alongside them, these experiences stimulate multiple senses in a controlled and enriching way, promoting sensory integration and connection.
🌟 Why EAT Matters for people with autism
�Equine-assisted therapy offers a unique, hands-on approach that complements traditional therapies for autism. Horses create an environment that is both engaging and predictable, reducing stress while supporting skill development. Whether through social, emotional, or sensory-focused activities, EAT practitioners can help autistic individuals achieve therapeutic goals while building confidence, resilience, and joy.
Equine-assisted therapy supports people with autism to thrive and connect in meaningful ways. 💛
