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What is

Equine/Pony Assisted Therapy?

Equine Assisted Therapy or “Pony” Assisted Therapy is highly motivating and has many benefits. It is utilized as a component of the child’s comprehensive treatment plan to facilitate language learning, speech production, communication skills, fine and gross motor, sensory processing, and activities of daily living. It also provides sensory input for improved attention and engagement throughout the session. 

We are so fortunate to partner with the Naples Therapeutic Riding Center, located conveniently across the street from our clinic location, to provide Equine Assisted Therapy for children receiving our therapy services in a beautiful farm setting.

 

At the Naples Therapeutic Riding Center, a certified Speech Language Pathologist or Occupational Therapist, a pony handler, and one of two adorable miniature ponies work together as a team to create a fun and unique therapy experience!

 

Additional facts about Equine Assisted Therapy:

 

  • Client progress toward individual therapy goals is documented during each session.

  • Session plans are dictated by clinical practice.

  • Therapy includes the participation of an animal-handler team.

  • The ponies may act as communication partners or social facilitators.

  • The ponies are working animals who are trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities.

  • Working with animals promotes decreased stress, positive changes in mood, and improves social connections for some individuals.

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