# A Multi-Site Observational Evaluation of the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association Model of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy for Veteran Trauma Survivors

## TL;DR

This study evaluated a horse-assisted therapy model for veterans with trauma, finding it feasible and effective in reducing symptoms.

## Contribution

The study demonstrates the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of the Eagala model for treating trauma in veterans across multiple sites.

## Key findings

- Significant decreases in PTSD symptoms and depression were observed post-intervention.
- Participants showed increased life satisfaction and reduced disability scores.
- The Eagala model showed better treatment engagement compared to conventional psychotherapy.

## Abstract

The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and preliminary outcomes of the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association (Eagala) model of equine-assisted psychotherapy for active-duty military and veteran trauma survivors. This was a retrospective multi-site observational study. Study participants completed four psychological instruments pre- and post-intervention. These were the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5, the Patient Health Questionnaire, the Satisfaction with Life Scale and the Sheehan Disability Scale. The Client Satisfaction Questionnaire-8 was also completed post-intervention. Paired-sample t-tests were conducted to assess for changes in the primary outcome variables pre- and post-intervention. The RAPID qualitative approach was used to analyze the qualitative data and develop subthemes. Subjects were 107 participants at 12 sites. Participants ranged in age from 22 to 78 and were predominately male. Findings revealed that the Eagala model intervention can be implemented for this population across multiple sites. Further, treatment engagement may be better than found with conventional psychotherapy interventions for this population. Pre-to-post-intervention changes in scores on the psychological instruments revealed significant decreases in PTSD symptoms, depression, and disability as well as increases in satisfaction with life. Future randomized controlled trails of this intervention are warranted.