I would think that this would be a great way to treat persons with mental illness. I can't relate directly to the horse part of it but animals are a very good partner for life. To have something rely on you for their well being is a good thing. I would not be here if not for my dog, I miss her so much sometimes. To not know what would have happened to her if I had done something to myself was enough to get me through some of my darkest times. She needed me and that saved me.