Research at the Farm
At Cultivate Care Farms, research is at the heart of our mission to advance mental health and well-being through innovative Farm-Based Therapy™ (FBT). By participating in our research studies, you are helping us better understand the therapeutic effects of animal-assisted interactions and nature-based activities on mental health. Our studies not only enhance our therapy programs but also contribute to the broader field of mental health research, providing valuable insights into how nature-based interventions can make a positive difference in people’s lives.
Our commitment to evidence-based therapies drives our research efforts. We are dedicated to ensuring that Farm-Based Therapy is not only effective but also backed by scientific data. Through rigorous research, we aim to formalize our FBT model, expand access, and advocate for its inclusion in therapeutic and educational settings. By generating data and evidence, we hope to make the case for increased support from healthcare providers and funders, paving the way for more people to experience the benefits of Farm-Based Therapy, both now and in the future.
Current Research Studies
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Therapeutic Impact of Brief Interactions with Goats
Our latest research project, led by Megan Moran and Chelsey Brown, examines the mood-boosting effects of brief interactions with goats. Participants will spend time with our friendly Pygmy goats and complete a short survey before and after the session. The study is open to individuals ages 9 and up who have not previously been clients of Cultivate Care Farms.
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that participating in research is an important decision, and we want you to feel fully informed about what’s involved. Below, you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about our research studies at Cultivate Care Farms. From eligibility requirements to privacy protections, these FAQs cover all the key details to help you decide if joining our research community is right for you.
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Our research focuses on understanding the effects of Farm-Based Therapy™ on mental health. Current studies investigate how animal interactions and nature-based activities impact mood, reduce stress, and support emotional regulation.
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Most of our studies are open to children, adolescents, and adults ages 9 and older. Eligibility may vary depending on the specific study, so please check the requirements for each research opportunity.
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Safety is our top priority. Our research studies involve minimal risks, comparable to daily activities. We take steps to ensure that participants understand potential risks and can discontinue their participation at any time.
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We take privacy seriously. All personal information is stored securely and de-identified before analysis. Only authorized research staff have access to your information, and identifying details are kept separate from study data.
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Participation in our studies is free of charge. While we do not provide compensation, we hope participants enjoy their time on the Farm and find the experience personally rewarding.
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Yes, participants can request to see their survey results at the end of their session. However, surveys will remain on-site and cannot be taken home.
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To sign up for an existing research study, please complete the sign-up form for the study you are interested in, linked above, and we will be in touch with additional details.
To be added to our mailing list for future studies, please complete this research interest form.
Get Involved in Research
If you're interested in learning more about our research studies or want to participate, please complete our research interest form. For additional questions, feel free to reach out to us at research@cultivatefarms.org or call us at 978-618-1144.
Your participation is a valuable contribution to our mission, helping us build a brighter future through Farm-Based Therapy. Thank you for considering joining us on this journey of discovery and impact!