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How Substance Use Disorder Patients Experience the Stable Environment in Horse-Assisted Therapy

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A study published in Substance Abuse: Research and Treatment explored how horse-assisted therapy (HAT) helps people in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. While previous work showed HAT could improve treatment retention, this research focused on patients’ own perspectives of spending time in the stable environment.


What They Did

  • Participants: Eight young adults (ages 20–30) in residential SUD treatment in Oslo, Norway.

  • Program: A structured 12-session horse-assisted therapy program, led by therapists who were also qualified riding instructors.

  • Method: Qualitative interviews analyzed within a social constructionist framework, capturing how participants experienced the stable environment beyond the horse-human relationship.


Key FindingsPatients described HAT as more than just a pleasant diversion. Four interrelated themes emerged:

  • Change of Focus: The stable offered relief from constant drug-related thoughts, providing a chance to “forget everything” and live in the moment.

  • Activity: Working with horses created a sense of purpose and usefulness—feeding, grooming, and caring for the animals made participants feel productive and appreciated.

  • Identity: In the stable, patients felt recognized as “who I really am,” rather than as “patients.” They were seen as responsible, capable individuals, not defined by addiction.

  • Motivation: For many, HAT was a strong reason to stay in treatment. The enjoyable, non-drug focus provided structure and motivation to keep going.


Why It Matters

The study highlights that equine-assisted therapy doesn’t just give patients a break from traditional treatment—it provides a space where they can rebuild a positive identity, feel valued, and stay motivated. This has powerful implications for addiction treatment more broadly, suggesting that therapeutic environments fostering recognition, responsibility, and belonging can help people remain engaged in recovery.


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