Learn about EAAT

What Are Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapies?

Throughout the world, hundreds of thousands of individuals with and without special needs experience the rewarding benefits of equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT). A physical, cognitive or emotional special need does not limit a person from interacting with horses. In fact, such interactions can prove highly rewarding. For instance, experiencing the rhythmic motion of a horse can be very beneficial. Riding a horse moves the rider's body in a manner similar to a human gait, so riders with physical needs often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength.

Whether it's a five-year-old with Down syndrome, a 45-year-old recovering from a spinal cord injury or a senior citizen recovering from a stroke, research shows that individuals of all ages who participate in EAAT can experience physical and emotional rewards. For individuals with emotional challenges, the unique relationship formed with the horse can lead to increased confidence, patience and self-esteem. For teams in the corporate workplace and any individual seeking better leadership, team building or communication skills, working with horses provides a powerful new paradigm for enhanced communication and fresh approaches for effective team building.

PATH Intl. is an international voice of the EAAT industry. As the premier professional membership organization, PATH Intl. advocates for EAAT and provides standards for safe and enabling equine interaction, through education, communication, standards and research.

Download the 2009 Fact Sheet.

Integration of EFMHA and PATH Intl.

On November 4, 2010, the presidents of the PATH Intl. Board of Trustees and the EFMHA Board of Directors signed a proclamation fully integrating EFMHA into the association. For questions about the PATH Intl./EFMHA integration, please read the Frequently Asked Questions document. Also view the volunteer organizational chart to see EFMHA integration and representation on PATH Intl.'s various committees. 

Testimonials

"I have multiple schlerosis, and horseback riding helps me overcome my day to day challenges more than anything else I could do." — Lori Hall, rider at Astride with Pride, a PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center in Bedford, VA

"The horses were the bridge between father and child, creating a common bond upon which they could build."— Blair McCissock, BS in Recreational Therapy, MA in Education, PATH Intl. Certified Registered Level Instructor

"Parents watch their children take risks, meet challenges and become independent."— Meggan Hill-McQueeney, PATH Intl. Certified Master Level Instructor

Get Involved 

Want to really learn about EAAT? Get involved.

One way to get involved is to become a volunteer. Learn how here.

Learn More About ...

EAAT Definitions
Benefits of EAAT

Speciality Disciplines
Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy and Equine Facilitated Learning
Therapeutic Riding
Therapeutic Driving
Interactive Vaulting
PATH Intl. Horses for Heroes