Will the VA pay for equine therapy?

Our H.O.P.E. for WARRIORS program serves active military members, their families and veterans using equine assisted psychotherapy at no cost.

What does equine therapy for veterans involve?

In equine therapy, also known as equine assisted therapy or horse therapy, mental health professionals work with veterans to create meaningful bonds between the patients and horses. This is typically accomplished through feeding, grooming, and therapeutic riding.

What can therapy horses solve?

Certain equine-assisted therapies are effective for children with cerebral palsy, behavioral tics, motor control issues, and coordination problems, and for people of any age with reduced mobility. Research has found Equine Therapy to also be beneficial for those with eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia.

Does Tricare cover hippotherapy?

2.1 Under TRICARE, hippotherapy is an exercise program; thus, it is excluded from coverage under the TRICARE Basic Program.

Is equine therapy evidence based?

Abstract. Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) has emerged as a promising, evidence-based intervention for the treatment of trauma and stressor-related disorders. This experiential therapy offers an option for clients whose traumatic experiences render traditional talk therapies ineffective.

How effective is horse therapy?

Research shows that Equine-Assisted Therapy is effective for treating adolescents experiencing depression, anxiety, and/or trauma-related symptoms, as well as ADHD, autism, dissociative disorders, and other mental health diagnoses.

How do horses heal humans?

In fact, an emerging body of scientific evidence indicates that interacting with horses improves health and well-being and can help people with numerous physical and mental health conditions, from children living with motor disabilities to adults grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).