Equine assisted therapy and learning

This study examines the practices of Equine Assisted Therapy and Learning in Australia. Among Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT) and Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) centers there is a large degree of variation in practice worldwide. The current study outlines a range of practices in two states in Australia where EAT and EAL have arisen and evolved from models developed elsewhere. The philosophical foundations, training and certification processes followed along with the types and training of horses involved are compared across facilities. The findings of the study illustrated the large variation in EAT and EAL in current practice in Australia. The results suggested that if the practices of EAT and EAL are to move out of the “fringe” of mental health and learning professional practice and into the mainstream, their theoretical underpinnings, certification and licensure procedures, and methodology of practice must become more clearly defined.