HOPE – Horses Helping People was established in July 2000, as a not for profit organization, to offer equine-assisted therapy to enrich the lives and experiences of individuals with disabilities. Our organization’s founders and directors have extensive equine backgrounds and work in a variety of professions, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, exercise science, nursing and special education. They are active at the local, state, national and international levels with regard to equine assisted therapy and activities, thus providing services that are truly state of the art. HOPE began as a back-yard program, but now resides on 40 acre facility in Archer, whose use has been donated. Our programs include, Adapted Riding Therapies and Equine Assisted Learning, Memoree (for patients with Alzheimers), Equine Recreational Therapy, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, First Responder and Veterans Programs, Special Olympics and more.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Equine therapy as an industry is a form of therapy that involves working with horses to help individuals with disabilities and mental health issues. It can help build strength, balance, and coordination. Equine therapy can also help kids develop better emotional regulation, higher self-confidence, and more independence.
Equine therapy is recommended for many people with PTSD, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism.
The occupational therapy process includes an OT evaluation before care starts. Here are the four steps your family can expect when starting occupational therapy:
Complete OT evaluation. An occupational therapist first identifies your strengths and needs through a thorough OT evaluation, also known as an OT assessment or screening. You’ll answer questions about you your skills, and you will most likely demonstrate these skills via hands-on activities with the therapist. Evaluations can last 30 minutes to a couple hours.
Approve OT plan. The therapist develops a care plan with individualized goals and customized interventions based on your needs. You can also share any specific goals or concerns before approving the OT plan.
Start therapy sessions. The therapist works directly with you, using various strategies and exercises to systematically improve areas of limitations and to build upon your strengths. If there are others part of your care team, the therapist may teach strategies for supporting your individualized needs at home and may recommend tools and techniques to use at home, in the community, or in the classroom to help you thrive.
Monitor your progress. You can expect ongoing progress monitoring and communication to ensure you're achieving your short and long-term goals.