Equine Therapy at Wandi Nerida: A Journey of Connection and Recovery

At Wandi Nerida, Australia’s first residential eating disorder treatment centre, Sarah gently brushes the mane of Princess, a Clydesdale cross who has become an unexpected ally in her recovery from anorexia nervosa. The rhythmic strokes of the brush, the horse’s steady breathing, and the quiet moments they share together create a space of peace that once seemed impossible to find.

Equine assisted therapy (EAT) has emerged as a transformative component of treatment at Wandi Nerida, offering participants a unique bridge between traditional clinical interventions and experiential therapy. Working alongside these magnificent creatures, we witness daily how they help dismantle the walls that eating disorders so carefully construct.

The depth of connection between horses and healing continues to amaze both our clinical team and participants. These intuitive animals mirror emotions with remarkable accuracy, responding to the subtle signals that many of our participants have learned to mask from themselves and others. For those struggling with eating disorders, who often become experts at concealing their true feelings and needs, this honest, immediate feedback becomes a powerful catalyst for self-discovery.

Certified Equine Therapists

At Wandi Nerida, our approach integrates registered mental health professionals with certified equine specialists, creating a safe and supportive environment for healing. We combine traditional therapeutic techniques with structured horse-based activities, all within the framework of evidence-based eating disorder treatment protocols.

The transformation we see in our participants speaks to the unique power of this approach. Many arrive having spent years disconnected from their bodies and emotions, trapped in cycles of control and perfectionism. Working with horses demands a different kind of presence – you cannot control a 500-kilogram animal through force or manipulation. Instead, participants learn to be authentic, grounded, and genuinely connected.

Supported by Research

Recent research supports what we observe daily at Wandi Nerida. A 2023 University of Melbourne study demonstrated significant improvements in body image, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships among participants in equine-assisted programs compared to traditional therapy alone.

The therapy takes various forms within our program. Some sessions involve leading a horse through an obstacle course, revealing ingrained patterns of control and perfectionism common in eating disorders. Other times, participants engage in liberty work, learning to communicate with horses without physical contact – a profound exercise in trust and challenging fear-based behaviours.

Claire, a 19-year-old participant recovering from bulimia, shares a pivotal moment in her journey: “I was trying to get Princess to follow my lead, but she wouldn’t budge. My therapist helped me realise I was approaching her the same way I approached everything in life – with tension and anxiety. When I finally relaxed and allowed myself to be vulnerable, she walked right beside me. It was the first time I understood that strength doesn’t mean constant control.”

The integration of EAT into mainstream eating disorder treatment represents a significant evolution in recovery approaches across Australia. Major treatment centres now either offer equine therapy or maintain partnerships with qualified EAT providers. For those not in residential treatment, Medicare covers some sessions when prescribed as part of a comprehensive mental health treatment plan.

Endorsed by Lived Experience

Sarah’s journey at Wandi Nerida illustrates the profound impact of this work. Three months into her stay, she’s discovered new strength, both physically and emotionally. “The horses,” she reflects, “they don’t care what size you are or what you ate today. They care about whether you’re present, authentic, and willing to connect. That’s been the most powerful lesson of all.”

In the landscape of eating disorder recovery, Wandi Nerida’s equine assisted therapy program exemplifies the unique Australian approach to healing – combining clinical expertise with connection to nature, delivered with straightforward authenticity. As we continue to develop our understanding of effective treatment modalities, our equine partners remain steadfast guides on the path to recovery.

If you are looking for confidential and free support now, the Butterfly National Helpline is open 7 days a week, 8am-midnight (AEST/AEDT). Call 1800 ED HOPE (1800 33 4673) or chat online or email.