Creative Therapies

Animal-Assisted Therapy

The Animal-Assisted Therapy Program at Hoffman Homes gives those in our care the opportunity to learn about and interact with a variety of therapy animals. Each session begins with a therapeutic activity to help facilitate discussion. The session moves on to caring for the animals, feeding and cleaning cages, and ends in “free time” with an animal of their choosing. During this time, participants often feel relaxed and comfortable enough to share more about their history, behavior, and treatment goals.

Animals and their behavior are used as metaphors for real-life situations. Animal-Assisted Therapy addresses flight, fight, freeze response, and herd instinct. It addresses how humans and animals are alike and different in their responses to danger and safety. The individual is asked to create a safe environment for themselves and the animals, encouraging social interaction and problem-solving. The goals of Animal-Assisted Therapy are to help the participant develop respect toward other living things, learn how to maintain safe and appropriate behavior around animals, develop coping and relaxation skills, enhance communication and social skills, cooperate with others, and develop a sense of self-worth.

Equine-Assisted Therapy

Those participating in Equine-Assisted Therapy groups learn to work safely and appropriately with their peers and the horses while developing their horsemanship and riding skills. Sessions begin with group activities such as grooming, leading, and groundwork games to allow participants to become familiar with the horses. Participants transition into mounted activities when they are able to display safe handling techniques from the ground.

Individuals participating in barn management groups have the opportunity to learn how to appropriately care for and safely handle the horses in a non-threatening environment. They are taught about the basic needs of the horse, such as health care, dietary needs, and first aid. Required barn chores include sweeping and preparing grain to ensure that the horses and people have a clean and safe space to enjoy. Working with the horses teaches responsibility and social skills while enhancing empathetic skills.

Equine-Assisted Therapy offers a variety of physical and emotional benefits including leadership skills, developing self-confidence, teaching impulse control, building and maintaining trusting relationships, developing awareness of non-verbal communication, and creating a sense of pride. Physical benefits also include improving balance, teaching body awareness, building core strength, and improving flexibility.