ABSTRACT
Hope Unbridled, Inc provides Eagala model equine-assisted counseling. Equine-assisted counseling (EAC) has shown some positive results in treating adolescents with depression. Traditional methods of treating depression in adolescents have been twofold. First, antidepressants are often prescribed but there is a risk that this may increase suicidal thoughts and behaviors in adolescents. Second, cognitive behavior therapy is also prominent but some adolescents do not respond well to this approach, up to 20% in one study. Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in adolescents. Yet, one classic Equine-Assisted Growth and Learning Association activity that seems to be helpful to teens with depression is learning to create or stop movement of the horse. There are many techniques available in the modality of equine-assisted interventions. In equine-assisted interventions, the facilitation team's role while the client is completing the activities is to observe.
