Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurocognitive, developmental disability that impacts social communication and is associated with restricted and repetitive behaviors. Autistic youth, however, are more likely than their peers to have a co-occurring mental health challenge and less likely to engage in outpatient mental health treatments compared to typically developing peers. Emerging evidence to support the efficacy of complementary and alternative medicines, such as animal-assisted interventions, lacks input from this historically marginalized and oppressed population. In this dissertation, I explore what the experience of engaging in animal-assisted interventions is like for 3 young people. Using a multiple case study analysis, I am sharing the lived experience of difference, voice, and individualization in a therapeutic horseback riding program. Ultimately this dissertation emphasizes the importance of voice in the evidence-based practice model and illustrates the value of being heard and seen in this world, regardless of our differences.
