Poster Session
Issue Date: August 2019
Published Online: August 01, 2019
Updated: April 30, 2020
Healing with Horses: Outcomes of an Equine-Facilitated Cancer Program and Directions for OT Practice
Lynne Murphy, EdD, OTR/L; Brittany Goehmann; Heather Panczykowski, DHSc, OTR/L
Author Affiliations & Notes
  • East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
  • East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
  • East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
Article Information
Complementary/Alternative Approaches / Evidence-Based Practice / Health and Wellness / Mental Health / Rehabilitation, Participation, and Disability / Work and Industry / Translational Research
Poster Session   |   August 01, 2019
Healing with Horses: Outcomes of an Equine-Facilitated Cancer Program and Directions for OT Practice
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, August 2019, Vol. 73, 7311520438. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2019.73S1-PO7044
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, August 2019, Vol. 73, 7311520438. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2019.73S1-PO7044
Abstract

Date Presented 04/06/19

This study explored a 10-week, equine-facilitated program for cancer survivors living in the community. Unmounted horsemanship activities were followed by guided processing of emotions within a support group. Overall quality of life increased; however quantitative analysis was limited by small sample. Qualitative analysis revealed five themes of human-equine journey, human bond through shared experience, reclaiming positive emotions, nurturing resilience, and evolution of a new identity.

Primary Author and Speaker: Lynne Murphy

Additional Authors and Speakers: Brittany Goehmann, Heather Panczykowski