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"When I was researching topics for my doctoral dissertation at theUniversity of North Texas (UNT)," said Dr. Trotter, "I found anecdotalevidence about horse therapy, but no proven empirical research. I decided todo the first formal clinical study and attempt to either prove or disprovethat horses help people in measurable ways."
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Under the guidance of Dr. Cynthia Chandler, who developed and directs theCenter for Animal Assisted Therapy at UNT, Dr. Trotter compared and contrastedthe experiences of youngsters who participated in a 12-week Equine AssistedCounseling (EAC) program with those who remained in a classroom fortraditional counseling. The results proved decisively that horse therapy getsauthentic results in increasing positive behaviors in clients, and are in herdissertation, "The Efficacy of Equine Assisted Group Counseling with At-RiskChildren and Adolescents." Her pioneering work is being featured in TheJournal of Creativity in Mental Health, a peer-review publication of theAmerican Counseling Association (ACA). Dr. Trotter is also interviewed in anupcoming issue of the ACA's "Counseling Today."
"During the study, we let youngsters select a horse to work with, andassigned them specific tasks," Dr. Trotter explained. For instance, eachchild had to approach a horse, put a halter on the animal, and then lead it tothe facilitators.
"If youngsters are going to successfully complete the task, they mustimmediately change their behaviors to win the horses' trust," saidDr. Trotter. "Behavioral changes that might take weeks of traditional therapycan happen instantly in the arena when children see how the horse responds."
During the EPIC workshops June 6, counselors will learn what EAC is, andhow it can benefit clients. The afternoon workshop focuses on using horseswith clients diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Participants will earn3 CEUs for each session. EPIC workshops are $75 each, or both for $120. Outof town guests can receive discounts at the Hilton Gardens Inn Lewisburg,(972) 459-4600.
To register for the EPIC workshops visit Dr. Trotter's website athttp://www.kaytrotterEPIC.com, or call her at (214) 499-0396.
SOURCE Dr. Kay Trotter
