How does Therapeutic Riding differ from Equine-Facilitated Psychotherapy?
Though E.F.P. and Therapeutic Riding share many of the same benefits, there are some important distinctions between the two. E.F.P. is always facilitated by a licensed/credentialed mental health professional. Though the client will learn equestrian skills, therapy co-facilitated with horses is the primary focus. Therapeutic Riding, however, has a more recreational and educational focus. Though learning riding skills and participating in activities may have therapeutic value for the student, it is not therapy. According to N.A.R.H.A., an activity is therapeutic if a participant derives benefit, shows improvement or feels better once engaged. An activity can be therapeutic without being considered as therapy.
