Preventing recidivism and promoting reintegration through equine therapy

On the one hand, there are people in the open environment, on probation following a court sentence. On the other, multi-disciplinary teams from the SPIP (Penitentiary Integration and Probation Services) to support them in their efforts to prevent recidivism and reintegrate into society. The results are clear: the recidivism rate is 65%, and it remains difficult to establish a relationship of trust and assistance with convicts. Skepticism, flippancy, difficulty in communicating, rejection of authority figures... There is a great deal of resistance preventing individuals from envisaging an alternative and accepting outside help. Faced with this impasse, a SPIP wondered how to bring about change in some people and initiate lasting personal transformation? Biodynamic therapy with horses was chosen as a lever for experimentation.

In this equitherapy approach, "feeling through the body" is at the heart of the experience. Each participant is invited to discover his or her own sensations and emotions, through play, dynamic observation and communication with the animal. The bond that develops over the course of a day allows us to feel the existential depths of our being, often unknown until then. "It's because the horse accepts them as they are, that they accept themselves as they are", explains the course leader. It's in this way that new awarenesses can emerge, changing the way we relate to and interact with the world.

Thanks to the excellent results achieved in terms of the social and professional reintegration of participants, this SPIP renews its commitment to the partner riding center every year.