Horses: sources for healing.

The research article discusses the effectiveness of equine-facilitated psychotherapy (EFP) as a form of alternative therapy for adult women survivors of abuse. The therapy has been found to increase self-confidence, control, independence and decrease feelings of depression among the subjects.

Understanding the Research Article

• This article is a response from a reader to an initial research article titled “Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy with Adult Female Survivors of Abuse”. The initial article under discussion was published in a December 2008 issue and explored the role of horse-assisted therapy, known as equine-facilitated psychotherapy (EFP), in helping adult female survivors of abuse.
• In the initial article, the researchers had explored the effectiveness of EFP as an alternative therapeutic method to help abused women overcome their trauma and regain their self-confidence and control over their lives.

Alternative Therapies and Mental Health

• The reader points out that while many articles have discussed the value of alternative therapies in medicine, there has been less discussion around their use in mental health.
• The letter indicates that the initial article did a great job of reminding healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, of the holistic approach to patient care that includes not only physical health but also mental health.
• The reader acknowledges the growing respect that alternative therapy methods are gaining within the medical community and appreciates the research done regarding EFP.

Impact and Benefits of Equine-facilitated Psychotherapy

• The reader points out the effectiveness of EFP in improving abused women’s mental health, including increasing self-confidence and control, gaining independence, and decreasing depression levels.
• Based on the narration of the women involved in the study, the interaction with horses seems to have a positive and healing effect.

Navigating for Information and Community Involvement

• The reader appreciated the website address provided in the initial article, as they were able to locate credentialed EFP providers and plans to refer patients to these resources.
• This research influenced the reader personally, inspiring them to volunteer at an EFP facility, demonstrating how research can motivate positive community involvement.

In summary, this letter is a testament to the effectiveness of EFP in helping abused women and the value of alternative therapies in mental health, signaling a need for more research and discussion on these alternative approaches.