Ethical Considerations in Equine Therapy Sessions
Equine-assisted therapy in educational settings presents a unique set of ethical considerations that must be carefully navigated to ensure the well-being of all involved. One key ethical consideration is obtaining informed consent from participants, as well as ensuring that they fully understand the nature of the therapy and the potential risks involved. This is especially important when working with individuals with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) challenges, as their ability to fully comprehend the therapy process may be impacted.
Confidentiality is another crucial ethical consideration in equine therapy sessions. Therapists must maintain the privacy of all participants and their personal information, while also being aware of any limitations to confidentiality, such as situations where there is a risk of harm to oneself or others. Additionally, therapists must ensure that the therapy environment is safe and appropriate for both the participants and the therapy horses, adhering to best practices in animal welfare and health and safety regulations. Overall, upholding high ethical standards is essential in equine-assisted therapy to promote trust, respect, and positive outcomes for all involved.
