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When most people think of therapy, they envision a traditional office setting with a therapist and client discussing their problems. However, there is a unique and unconventional approach to mental health treatment that has gained popularity in recent years – the serenity of equine therapy.
Equine therapy, also known as horse therapy or hippotherapy, is a type of therapy that involves working with horses to promote physical, occupational, and emotional growth in individuals. While it may seem like an unorthodox approach, equine therapy is backed by scientific research that supports its effectiveness. It is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after alternatives for those searching for an effective treatment. It is also the focus of Saddled Souls.
Lauren Crocker’s Revolutionary Approach To Traditional Therapy
Lauren Crocker founded Saddled Souls, a nonprofit organization that provides equine-assisted therapy to individuals of all ages. A pioneer in the field of equine therapy, Lauren’s journey to becoming an equine therapist began with her love of horses. She grew up riding and caring for horses and was always drawn to their gentle nature and intuitive ability to connect with humans.
As an equine lover, Lauren understands that horses have an innate ability to mirror our emotions and provide honest, non-judgmental feedback. When working with horses, individuals must be present, aware, and authentic, which can help them develop greater self-awareness and emotional regulation skills.
“Using the horse is one of the few interventions that will address all the systems of the body,” Lauren explains. “Parents will see changes in areas that aren’t being specifically addressed such as sleep and digestion because of the rhythm and consistency of the horse’s gait.”
How Equine Therapy Helps The Healing Process
Equine therapy is a unique and enriching experience that differs greatly from traditional therapy settings. According to Crocker, equine therapy also provides a non-judgmental space where individuals can feel safe and supported as they work through their challenges.
Moreover, equine therapy has proven to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction. In a study published in the Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, equine therapy can improve self-esteem, social functioning, and overall well-being in individuals with mental health issues.
Looking to the future, Lauren’s vision for equine therapy is for it to become more widely recognized as a legitimate form of mental health treatment. She wants to see equine therapy become more accessible for individuals who need it.
“Everyone has a story, and everyone has gone through something. If we don’t heal from the inside, we won’t grow,” Lauren says.
That growth is instrumental in driving Crocker to share her love of horses with the world in a way that benefits everyone around her. It’s this attention to the needs of clients and the emphasis on the importance of mental health that pushes her to make a difference.
With continued research and support, equine therapy has the potential to become a mainstream and accessible form of mental health treatment. Lauren Crocker is at the forefront of that movement and Saddled Souls is helping souls along the way.
About Lauren Crocker
Lauren Crocker is an experienced real estate agent and broker. She specializes in both commercial and residential real estate properties in Montgomery County, TN. She is also the founder of Saddled Souls, a non-profit that specializes in equine-assisted hippotherapy for children. For more information, please visit https://www.facebook.com/SaddledSouls
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