Alexander Varn | German Psychologist and Equine Therapy Expert

Alexander Varn | German Psychologist and Equine Therapy Expert

Author: Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center May 5, 2025 Duration: 1:57:16

Equine therapy, also known as equine-assisted therapy, utilizes the unique relationship between humans and horses to promote healing and self-discovery. It encompasses various activities with horses, such as grooming, feeding, and riding, all while under the guidance of a mental health or physical therapy professional. The goal is to leverage the horse's natural qualities and behavior to help individuals develop emotional regulation, confidence, and social skills.

In this episode Alexander Varn, a troop psychologist with the German Armed Forces, dives deep into the science, biology, and theories as to why this breakthrough healing modality is so effective, while also sharing inspirational stories of real-life case studies along the way.

Types of equine therapy mentioned in the episode:

1) Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy: Focuses on mental health issues, with individuals working with a licensed therapist and a horse specialist.

2) Hippotherapy: Utilizes the horse's movement to improve physical, occupational, and speech therapy goals.

3) Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL): Helps individuals develop life skills through interactions with horses.

 

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction

0:23 Meet Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Varn

7:39 The Origins of Equine Therapy

25:37 The Science and Biology, Theory 1

39:54 Horse Live in the Present, Humans Do Not

41:58 Overcoming Obstacles, Theory 2

1:04:18 Horses Are Naturally Calm. Theory 3

1:14:50 Healing for Couples

1:17:08 A Success Story

1:24:23 The Future of Equine Therapy

1:36:32 An Autism Case Study

1:44:51 First Experience with a Horse

1:53:17 Words of Encouragement

 

Watch on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/g_ylJ5iTsn0

 

Resources:

https://www.veteranscenter.org/

https://remountfoundation.org/

 

You’re not alone.

 

#MilitaryCommunity #VeteranSupport #PatriotTalk #VeteranMentalHealth #LifeAfterService #MilitaryTransition #ptsd #ptsdawareness #VetLife #USArmy #USMC #USNavy #USAF #CoastGuard #MilitaryLife #Veterans #MilitaryPodcast #VetTalk #VeteranVoices #HonoringHeroes #PodcastLife #VeteranStories #RealTalk #MilitaryMinds #vetpodcast #podcast #motivation #supportourtroops


The Vantage Point, presented by the Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, moves beyond the familiar narratives of military service to explore the rich, complex lives veterans lead long after their uniform comes off. This podcast is a space for conversation where the unique perspective forged by service meets the broader human experience. Episodes delve into the cultural touchstones, philosophical questions, and personal passions that define a life, from the books and films that resonate deeply to the ongoing education and hobbies that provide purpose. We talk about reintegration, family, and navigating civilian society, but we do so through the lens of lived experience and thoughtful dialogue. The goal is not just to share stories but to connect them to universal themes of resilience, curiosity, and community. By giving voice to veterans in all their diversity, The Vantage Point aims to foster understanding and highlight the multifaceted contributions of military families to the fabric of our culture. You'll hear honest discussions that are sometimes challenging, often uplifting, and always grounded in the distinct vantage point earned through service. Tune in for a podcast that honors the past while actively engaging with the present, exploring the leisure, learning, and philosophical threads that weave together a meaningful life after duty.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 52

The Vantage Point
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