Equine Therapy for Addiction at Oxford
Humans and horses have long had a strong bond. But there are many more ways our 4-legged companions can help us than we previously realized. In fact, research suggests that they can even help someone struggling with addiction.1
In conjunction with conventional, evidence-based therapy methods, the use of therapeutic equine activities shows promise in helping people recover from substance use disorders (SUDs).1
This page will explain what equine therapy for addiction is and what the equine program entails at Oxford Treatment Center.
What Is Equine-Assisted Therapy?
Equine-assisted therapy, also called horse-assisted therapy, involves the active use of horses in the therapeutic process. During equine-assisted therapy, professionals guide individuals or groups through various activities with therapy horses.
The equine therapy program at Oxford Treatment Center—a drug rehab in Mississippi—is just one of the many addiction therapies offered during comprehensive addiction treatment.
Oxford’s Equine Therapy Program
Oxford offers a robust equine therapy program. Our wooded campus in Etta, MS, houses an on-site stable, indoor riding arena, and nature trails.
With 14 nurturing therapy horses and a team of highly experienced equine specialists, we are able to provide several therapeutic equine activities.
By offering a range of experiences with the horses, our equine program meets each patient where they are. Whether a person has spent time around horses or not, our equine specialists work with each person to gradually gain a comfort level.
Residential patients at Oxford may participate in equine-assisted learning (EAL), elective equine activities, and therapeutic trail rides.
Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL)
At Oxford, equine-assisted learning (EAL) is a process group program that residential patients attend once a week. During EAL, demonstrations are conducted that involve interactions between the horses and an equine therapist or members of the group. Each activity incorporates recovery concepts, such as:
- Powerlessness.
- Triggers.
- Communication
- Boundaries.
- Trust.
- Patience.
Elective Equine Activities
In addition to the weekly clinical process group comprised of equine-assisted learning, Oxford also offers other opportunities to participate in equine activities. Every afternoon, patients have the choice of which specialty group to attend. During this time, an equine-assisted learning activity is available.
A theme is chosen each week, such as family dynamics or vulnerability.
Therapeutic Riding Program
Oxford also offers a therapeutic horse riding program. Miles of trails cover our beautiful 110 acre campus and 1 time a week patients have the option of going on a trail ride.
Trail rides are led by a staff member and open to no more than 5 patients at a time. Another staff member follows up the line of horses and patients get to experience a pleasant ride.
Trail riding gives participants time in nature and a chance to enjoy an activity while sober. Horse riding provides a calming activity outside of the therapy office in fresh air and sunshine.
Benefits of Equine Assisted Therapy
Several benefits are associated with equine therapy for addiction treatment. Some of these benefits include:
- A calming experience for patients.
- Teaches patients recovery skills, such as emotional self-regulation, restoring trust, establishing clear boundaries.
- Supports addiction treatment retention.2
- Results in improved self-esteem, empowerment, feelings of freedom for patients.3
Equine Program FAQs
Oxford’s Equine Therapy Team
Addiction Treatment and Recovery in Mississippi
At Oxford Treatment Center, you’ll discover an ideal environment for recovery. Along with our equine program, inpatient guests also enjoy many other amenities, such as the fitness center, chef-prepared, balanced meals, volleyball and basketball courts, and a private lake.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, please reach out to a compassionate admissions navigator at . They can answer your questions about the facility and the levels of addiction treatment offered at Oxford Treatment Center, as well as walk you through the rehab admissions process.
Oxford is in-network with several major insurance providers. In addition to using insurance coverage, there are also other ways to pay for rehab. for addiction treatment online now.