ABSTRACT

Equine-Partnered Play Therapy (EPPT) is based on the principles on nondirective play therapy and adapted from Child-Centered Play Therapy to be used with children ages three through nine years of age. However, some children begin to engage in oppositional behavior that crosses the line from healthy independence-seeking to dysfunctional behavior that interferes with their ability to engage in day-to-day interactions with family, teachers, friends, and other people in their lives. Miniature equines (horses or donkeys) are recommended in EPPT due to their smaller size in order to appear less threatening to small children and to decrease the risk of physical injury to the child. There are several ethical considerations in the implementation of EPPT. The equines selected for participation in EPPT should be thoroughly screened for health and/or behavioral issues that may negatively impact the session or cause harm to the child.