Occupational Therapists' Perspectives on Using Hippotherapy for Mental Health Outcomes

Introduction: This study investigates the perspective of occupational therapists (OTs) who use hippotherapy as a treatment tool on the benefits it has on mental health outcomes among the clients they serve. 

Methods: Drawing from a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through a survey of OTs with varying levels of experience who use hippotherapy as a treatment tool in their practice.

Results: Quantitative results show that 69% of respondents used hippotherapy to treat clients with mental health conditions, 100% of the therapists believed that hippotherapy benefitted the mental health of their clients, and 100% of therapists responded that hippotherapy was moderately effective to extremely effective in addressing mental health concerns. Qualitative responses highlighted significant perceived benefits of hippotherapy, including enhanced self-confidence, reduced anxiety, improved self-regulation, and increased social engagement. Therapists also emphasized the therapeutic value of the human-animal bond, particularly in fostering empathy and collaboration.

Discussion: Despite these benefits, participants noted the urgent need for more rigorous, large-scale research studies, increased funding, and standardized guidelines to support broader implementation. The findings underscore the potential of hippotherapy as a treatment tool used in OT interventions for mental well-being and call for greater empirical support to establish its efficacy in clinical settings.