Equine-Assisted Social Work as a Practice Model: Recognizing Connections Between Horses, Humans, and the Environment

<p xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" class="first" dir="auto" id="d3584307e66"> <b>Abstract:</b> <p xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" dir="auto" id="d3584307e71">As humans, we are an integral part of the environment, and acknowledging this interconnectedness is vital for effective social work practice. However, modern conceptions within social work often restrict the understanding of the environment to the social context. This presentation advocates for a reevaluation of the person-in-environment perspective, incorporating both natural and built environments. By strategically recognizing and integrating living systems, tangible benefits can be realized for human, animal, and environmental well-being. Embracing a strengths-based approach is essential to identifying and addressing environmental challenges, fostering improved health outcomes for social work practitioners, clients, and the broader ecosystem. This study presents Pony Power Therapies, a non-profit Equine-Assisted Services (EAS) provider located on a suburban New Jersey farm, as a compelling case study for Equine-Assisted Social Work (EASW). The equine partners at Pony Power Therapies act as facilitators, reconnecting social workers and clients with the natural environment while fostering authentic relationships. Additionally, environmental initiatives on the farm, such as soil erosion prevention through retention ponds, improved mobility through parking lot design, and nurturing community relationships, further highlight the benefits of this inclusive, environmentally conscious perspective. <p xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" dir="auto" id="d3584307e73"> <b>Author Bios:</b> <p xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" dir="auto" id="d3584307e78"> <b>Dr. Dana Spett, DSW</b> <p xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" dir="auto" id="d3584307e83">Dr.Spett is anaccomplished professional with a deep commitment to equine-assisted services, nature, and social work is the Founder and Executive Director of Pony Power Therapies, a nonprofit community-based center in New Jersey.Danahas dedicated herself to creating an inclusive and transformative environment guided by nature. Recognizing the power of nature to promote healing and personal growth,Danaensures that Pony Power Therapies embodies true inclusivity in all aspects of its operations.Danaearned a Doctor of Social Work degree from Rutgers University and is a Part-Time Lecturer teaching Practice 2-Social Work in Communities and Agencies and Global Social Work. With a focus on Equine Assisted Social Work (EASW),Dana's research centers around developing an ethical and competent practice model for this field. <p xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" dir="auto" id="d3584307e85"> <b>Abigail West, LSW</b> <p xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" dir="auto" id="d3584307e90">Abigail West is a Licensed Social Worker in the State of New Jersey who collaborates with horses and the environment while providing equine-assisted services. As the Program Director at Pony Power Therapies and a PATH CTRI, Abigail uses her expertise to help individuals overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Abigail holds a master's degree in social work from Columbia University and undergraduate degrees from New York University in Psychology, Child and Adolescent Psychopathology, American Sign Language, and Animal Studies. Abigail is a SIFI-certified supervisor for social work students on both undergraduate and master levels. Abigail has presented at the National Association of Social Workers Conference, PATH International Conference, Rutgers University School of Social Work, and Columbia School of Social Work.