Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT)

EQUINE ASSISTED ACTIVITES

Therapeutic Horseback Riding

Therapeutic horseback riding is not only fun but is recognized as one of the most successful and progressive forms of recreational activities which can be performed individually or in groups. The goal to control one’s own body and gain the trust of the horse inspires self confidence, responsibility and teamwork while learning adaptive riding and horsemanship skills. It can positively affect the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well being of individuals with disabilities.  Riders can improve their balance, coordination and strength, therefore increasing their self-esteem. Additionally they can learn to trust others while overcoming fears and anxiety while participating in a fun recreational activity.

Interactive Vaulting

This is a group activity program for individuals of all ages who are ambulatory and have the cognitive capability of following directions. Students perform exercises or maintain positions on the back of a moving horse. This encourages communication, cooperation, balance, strength, coordination and confidence.    

Carriage Driving

Students unable to participate in mounted riding, and those who desire another equestrian sport, benefit from Carriage Driving. These classes are taught by NARHA Certified Driving Instructors assisted by a therapist. The student sits beside the “whip” who is a trained, experienced instructor or volunteer. The client holds reins attached to a special halter and the whip holds reins attached to the horse’s bit to enable them to take over if needed.  Working at the walk and trot, both indoors and outdoors helps the student feel the freedom and confidence of being independent. Carriage Driving will be offered when we have our primary location.

  

EQUINE ASSISTED THERAPIES

Hippotherapy

The word “hippos” is the Greek word for horse and the treatment with the assistance of a horse is called HIPPOTHERAPY. Hippotherapy is conducted by Occupational, Physical, or a Speech therapist who has received extensive training through the American Hippotherapy Association. The therapist uses the three dimensional movement of a horse's gait which is similar to the human gait. This provides repetitive, rhythmical or variable movement which impacts on the client's neuromuscular system in a very organized and symmetrical way. The sensory rich farm environment also gives the client experiences which allows the therapist to carefully grade the degree of sensory input to the client while using various purposeful activities as part of an integrated treatment to reach individualized functional goals within the realms of each specific discipline. Hippotherapy is a unique treatment approach where therapy goals are achieved in a fun and intrinsically motivating natural environment.  Hippotherapy is used to treat children as young as 18 months to adults with varying disabilities with a physician’s clearance. Disabilities include: Developmental Delays, Sensory Integrative Dysfunction, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Cerebral Palsy, Learning or Language Disabilities, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Attention Deficit Disorders, Neurological Diseases ( Multiple Sclerosis), Cerebral Vascular Accident (stroke), Down Syndrome, Muscular Dystrophy, Spina Bifida, emotional disturbances, and visual and hearing impairments.     

Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) 

EFP is a form of experiential psychotherapy that involves horses. It has the same goals and characteristics as traditional psychotherapy, but utilizes the connection with an equine “co-therapist” to facilitate the progress and healing of the client. EFP harnesses the unique ability of horses to both nurture and provide strength to the people who interact with them. EFP may include a wide variety of equine activities such as handling, grooming, lunging, riding and driving. In the form that most resembles traditional psychotherapy, EFP is facilitated by a licensed, credentialed mental health professional that is also credentialed as an equine professional. Alternatively, a licensed, credentialed mental health professional works along with a credentialed equine professional.  

Equine Assisted Activities using Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC)

Electronic AAC devices generate synthesized speech for riders who have difficulty using their biological voices. Children who have cerebral palsy or other debilitating conditions which prevent vocal language are typical users of AAC devices. TBF is affiliated with AAC Animal Partners to provide an activity in which riders can guide a pony through trotting, walking, and halting by using the voices on their AAC devices.  What an experience of control and power to be able to work with a big animal like a pony and tell her what to do!

Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies Program Application/Releases download here