Occupational Therapists' Perspectives on Using Hippotherapy for Mental Health Outcomes

Session Description:
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. 

Intended Audience:
This is a beginner level session for therapists (PT, PTA, OT, COTA, SLP, and SLPA). 

Learning Outcomes: 

• Describe how occupational therapists currently integrate hippotherapy into treatment plans for clients with mental health concerns.

• Identify key psychosocial benefits associated with hippotherapy including increased confidence, improved emotional regulation, and greater social engagement.

• Evaluate the barriers faced by OTs when implementing hippotherapy for mental health and propose practical solutions or advocacy efforts.

Presenters Biography:

Dr. Marra Robert is the Doctoral Capstone Coordinator and Clinical Assistant Professor in the Occupational Therapy Department at the University of Michigan-Flint. She is a national board-certified occupational therapist and licensed practitioner in the state of Michigan. Her clinical experience is working with pediatrics and early intervention. She worked as a Lead Occupational Therapist and Early Intervention Specialist in both clinic and home settings serving children and their families. She enjoys mentoring students in the development of their Doctoral Capstone Projects and witnessing the positive impact their work has on the community.

Julie Jacob is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Michigan-Flint and the Program Director in the Occupational Therapy Program. Julie has been an occupational therapist for 15 years and has experience working in assisted living, memory care, and inpatient rehabilitation units.  Dr. Jacob received her Doctorate of Health Science with a telehealth concentration from Nova Southeastern University and both her Bachelor of Science in Health Science and Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at Saginaw Valley State University.  Within the OTD curriculum, she is responsible for the clinical education courses that include the fundamental skills of professionalism, communication, leadership, conflict management, and reimbursement. She has presented on fieldwork-related topics at both the state and national levels, including the role of occupational therapy fieldwork in the justice system. Her research interests include occupational justice, clinical education, and telehealth.

Presenter Disclosure:

Financial: Marra Roberts and Julie Jacobs are independent contractor for AHA, Inc. and does not receive a fee from AHA, Inc. for instructional services.

Non-Financial: Marra Roberts is a member of the AHA, Inc. Julie Jacobs is not a member of AHA, Inc.