Hippotherapy
Hippotherapy is used to engage sensory, neuromotor, and cognitive systems to promote functional outcomes through occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy. Professionals use evidence-based practice and clinical reasoning in the purposeful manipulation of equine movement.
Why Choose Our Ranch?
We are dedicated to providing high-quality care in a nurturing, peaceful environment. Our ranch offers spacious facilities and well-trained horses essential to our program. Our compassionate team is here to support your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
Experience the transformative power of Hippotherapy. Contact us today to learn more about our programs or to schedule a consultation. We look forward to welcoming you to our ranch.
Our Approach to Hippotherapy
Our professional therapy team integrates Hippotherapy into the patient’s plan of care, along with other therapy tools and strategies, through the following:
- Speech Therapy (ST):
- The Speech-Language Pathologist utilizes the movement of the horse to facilitate improved respiratory function, breath control, and oral-motor function. These effects are combined with standard speech and language intervention techniques to target articulation, fluency, and auditory processing. Using the natural environment, the therapist also addresses expressive language, receptive language, and social pragmatics.
- Physical Therapy (PT):
- A Physical Therapist is dedicated to enhancing the physical well-being, performance, and rehabilitation of individuals through equine movement and targeted therapeutic interaction.
- Occupational Therapy (OT):
- Occupational Therapists help individuals improve their ability to live independently and participate in daily life by addressing the impact of injuries, illnesses, or disabilities through purposeful activity and adaptive strategies — all supported by equine-assisted movement.
Key Benefits of Hippotherapy
- Improved Muscle Tone and Balance:
- Equine movement stimulates neuromuscular responses that promote core strength, postural control, and physical symmetry.
- Aids with Speech and Communication:
- Riding enhances breath support and timing, essential for vocalization, articulation, and language processing.
- Shortening Injury Recovery Time:
- The rhythmic, multidimensional motion of the horse aids in rebuilding strength and function more quickly than traditional therapy alone.
- Stress Reduction:
- Interacting with horses promotes relaxation, emotional release, and psychological resilience in a calming environment.
The Healing Power of Horses
Horses are sensitive and perceptive animals and naturally respond to human emotions and behaviors. They offer immediate feedback that helps individuals gain insight into their inner experiences. Their non-verbal communication can reveal unconscious thoughts and feelings, fostering a deeper understanding of oneself.
