Animals can divert attention away from anxiety which can give the therapist the chance to work with the non-anxious client which is much more effective.
Horses reflect back what the client is putting out there to others so they see a direct effect of their behavior either desired or undesired. This promotes awareness which is needed to change a behavior. Horses do this in a way that is non-threatening.
Connecting with a horse can be easily transferred to developing a healthy relationship with a human.
Horses facilitate change and improve problem solving skills in children and adults.