The TakeAway - talking about how equine-assisted social workers can help in stroke recovery with Barbara Wolfenden
In 2004, I had a stroke that was initially misdiagnosed due to my young age. After 36 hours in a public hospital, I was sent home with migraine medication, even though my symptoms included dysphasia and right hemiparesis. The initial diagnosis of 'Probable left cerebral infarct' was crossed out and replaced with 'migraine.' This led me to start a research career, seeking answers.
Five months later, a private cardiologist diagnosed me with a cryptogenic stroke. Two years after the stroke, I returned to university. Ten years later, a leading neurologist finally identified the lesion site that had been missed in earlier scans labeled as 'normal.' This experience drove me to become an expert in my own condition.
Today, I work as an Equine-assisted social worker, helping others experience the healing power of being with horses, just as I did. Horses don't judge; they sense your energy and respond in the moment. Through their reactions, they offer valuable insights, helping us gain new perspectives and better understand our challenges.
What is equine-assisted social work? (1.08)
Equine-Assisted Learning is hands-on learning with a horse. An Equine-assisted social worker offers a range of activities and exercises tailored to your needs - whether physical, mental or emotional.
Barbara says, “Equine-assisted social workers are certified, and are both qualified in social work and certified in equine assisted learning. The activities done are known as groundwork which can include, grooming, feeding, walking, connecting with and leading the horse.”
Barbara says, "Horses are non-judgemental animals, they can sense how we are feeling and they meet us in this space. Both humans and horses have heartbeats that will align when we relax together, and we can both benefit from regulating our emotions. Horses are very perceptive and notice small changes in their environment with curiosity. They can therefore sometimes reflect us back to ourselves, and in this way provide opportunities for reflection and insight in understanding aspects of our daily lives and challenges in stroke recovery."
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Barbara says, “Equine-assisted social work can make people feel very relaxed, out in nature and not in a clinical environment. When our brains are relaxed, we learn more easily.”
How can animals help with physical recovery, anxiety and mood changes after a stroke? (2.20 mins)
Barbara says, ““Physical recovery can be supported by walking a horse if it’s safe to do so. Stroke surviving participants have also reported, using an impaired hand to groom, touch and lead a horse helps with hand movement and sensation.
I find that spending time with the horses reduces anxiety. I valued this after my stroke, and I am keen to share.”
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Who can access equine assisted social work services?
Barbara says, “Anyone can, from primary school aged children, adolescents to adults of any age. People can use NDIS funding, so check with your local provider. Consider accessing a Social Worker who is also trained in Equine Assisted Learning, and explain how this aligns with your goals and outcomes. For instance, interacting with horses may help manage anxiety and promote mental calmness, allowing you to focus better during counselling sessions. Another option might be to apply the Substitution Rule under Section 10 of the NDIS Amendments, allowing you to request the inclusion of Equine Assisted Social Work/Therapy in your NDIS Plan based on your unique needs."
Note: NDIS legislation, recently signed into effect, does not explicitly support funding for Equine-assisted therapy. Under the new definition of supports, horses are not considered specially trained assistance animals like service dogs, and therefore do not meet the NDIS criteria for assistance animals. However, access should be possible through a suitably trained allied health professional. This must be included at the NDIS Planning stage. With the legislation coming into effect on 3 Oct 2024, now the reasonable and necessary supports in your plan must relate to the impairments for which you specifically meet NDIS access.
How did riding and spending time with horses help you in your own stroke recovery? (4.35)
Barbara says, “I was very lucky after my stroke as I had access to horses. By getting out and spending time with horses throughout my recovery, my balance, walking, mood and anxiety were all helped by spending time with my horse.
Do you have any other top pieces of advice for others? (5.17)
Barbara laughs and says, “Yes, I do! Don't take no for an answer.
My recovery was about trying new things, giving everything (reasonable) a go which built my confidence.
Question what you are told and weigh it up according to what you want to achieve. Ask yourself ‘why can't I do that’ and give yourself permission to try. When you have success other people around you will see and give you more room to experiment.”
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Barbara says, “Set big goals and break them down into smaller goals so that you can achieve them. And smaller goals can help to convince others that it’s worth having a go.”
For other videos in The TakeAway series:
Dedicated to Pangari: ‘She was my clever, caring girl with a gentle soul.
