Therapeutic Riding

Riding horses for therapeutic purposes has helped children with a very wide range of disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Multiple Sclerosis, Muscular Dystrophy, amputation, developmental disorders, spinal cord injury, brain injury, Cerebral Palsy, seizure disorders, visual and hearing impairment, learning disorders, emotional problems, anxiety disorder, behavioral problems, and other problems. Riding horses improves muscle tone, balance, posture, motor coordination, concentration, self-confidence, and self-esteem. Rider Packet

Hippotherapy

How does Hippotherapy work?

The natural movement of the horse is used to help individuals increase their functional abilities. The horse’s movement translates through the person, causing many parts of the body to do work. This response is sometimes achieved without the person’s awareness of their effort. The therapist can modify the horse's movement to promote specific responses within the person. This approach to treatment uses meaningful activities and specific goals, while providing the individual with a joyful experience, in a natural setting.

Why a horse? The horse’s pelvis moves in the same three ways as a human pelvis does. This creates a movement pattern similar to human walking. The horse also provides sensory input which impacts the person's vestibular, tactile, and proprioceptive systems. A foundation for the development of sensorimotor abilities is established. Therefore, motor planning abilities are promoted.

---

Equine Therapy

Equine Therapy is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, families, and groups. Equine Therapy addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, abuse issues, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs.

---

Equine Learning

Equine learning is experiential in nature. Equine Assisted Learning means that participants learn about themselves, their group, and others by participating in activities with the horses, and then processing (or discussing). This approach has been compared to the ropes courses used by educators, and human development courses around the world.But EAL has the added advantage of utilizing horses, dynamic and powerful living beings.

The equine assisted learning model helps individuals better understand themselves and others through participating in activities with the horses and then discussing feelings, behaviors, and patterns. The debriefing process seeks to bridge the horse activities from the arena back to “real life,” inviting people to reflect, generalize, and apply new insights. EAL can help you become a better team player, develop problem solving skills, improve your leadership abilities, communicate more effectively, build healthier relationships, and enhance self-authenticity. Rider Packet