Mental Health and Horses: A Deeper Dive into OT Approaches

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In this episode of "Animals and Aquatics in OT," host Gina introduces a new mini-series focused on horses in occupational therapy and mental health. Gina discusses her background in teaching mental health and psychosocial OT practice and mentions that she is currently working with clients and families with mental health diagnoses. She announces an upcoming interview on horse's mental health and occupational therapy, as well as a Lunch and Learn webinar by the American Hippotherapy Association. Gina emphasizes the importance of taking an OT perspective when combining mental health and horses into occupational therapy, encouraging practitioners to be confident in their practice and understanding their comfort zones. She explains how occupational therapists can draw from existing frames of reference and treatment groups when incorporating horses into mental health interventions. Gina provides examples of how occupational therapy interventions can be categorized as universal, targeted, or intensive based on the level of risk and diagnosis. She highlights the value of running groups and using interactive vaulting (gymnastics on horseback) to enhance social interactions and outcomes.