As science learns more about the disease of addiction and the undeniable benefits of holistic approaches to recovery, it has become apparent that there is much to be gained from incorporating animals into treatment. As a result, leading facilities have begun to adopt animal-assisted therapy (AAT) programs, and the results have been overwhelmingly positive.
One such facility is The Dunes East Hampton, a destination drug and alcohol rehab center located near the beaches of Long Island. The Dunes offers a wide range of services and resources to help clients overcome addiction, including Equine Assisted Addiction Therapy (EAAT).
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What is Equine Assisted Addiction Therapy?
EAAT is a type of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) that uses horses to facilitate the healing process. Horses are highly attuned to human emotions and can provide an invaluable mirror for clients in treatment. In addition, they can help individuals learn about themselves, build self-esteem, and develop trust and communication skills.
EAAT is an effective treatment modality for addiction because it addresses the disease’s physical, emotional, and mental aspects. The physical component is managed through the horseback riding itself, which can help build strength and coordination.
The emotional component is addressed through the deep bond that forms between horse and rider. And the mental aspect is addressed through the cognitive and behavioral skills required to care for the horse. The skills that clients learn in EAAT can be transferred successfully to their everyday lives, providing a solid foundation for long-term recovery and success.
The Benefits of Equine Assisted Addiction Therapy at The Dunes
The Dunes is a secluded East Hampton estate spanning 7400 sq. ft. with plenty of room for horses and clients to roam. The natural beauty of the setting provides a perfect backdrop for healing and growth.
Clients are supported by a team of highly trained and experienced professionals who can provide a custom combination of treatment protocols to fit their individual needs. The overall goal of EAAT is to help patients:
- achieve sobriety
- heal from trauma and abuse that feeds addictive behaviors
- learn new coping skills
- develop a solid foundation for long-term recovery
With the goal of recovery in mind, clients at The Dunes work one-on-one with their horses to safely explore and process painful emotions in a safe, nonjudgmental environment.
How Does Equine Assisted Therapy Work?
To begin a session, clients are paired with a horse that has been carefully selected to match their unique personality and needs. Next, addicts work closely with their horses to learn how to care for them and build trust between themselves and the animals.
In addition to learning how to properly saddle, groom, feed, and ride the horse, EAAT sessions also involve structured activities that encourage the exploration of emotions and foster an ongoing dialogue between horse and rider. As a result, clients gain valuable insight into themselves, their relationships with others, and how they can begin to improve these aspects of their lives.
The Dunes East Hampton for Comprehensive Recovery from Addiction
Equine Assisted Therapy at The Dunes offers a unique tool to address the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of addiction. It is an effective treatment modality for those struggling with addiction, and it can provide a solid foundation for long-term recovery.
Positive reviews and testimonials from past clients are a testament to the effectiveness of The Dunes, EAAT and its highly-trained staff of clinical psychologists, integrated medicine experts, social workers, and chemical dependency counselors.
With reviews that highlight a proven track record for helping clients achieve lifelong recovery, The Dunes East Hampton is an excellent choice for anyone seeking comprehensive addiction treatment in a luxurious and secluded setting.
