AHA, Inc. Research Panel Highlighting the Utilization of Equine Movement (Hippotherapy) 

Session Description:
The utilization of equine movement (hippotherapy) continues to grow significantly worldwide; therefore, the research to support the integration of our equine partners in our clinical practices is of the utmost importance. The AHA, Inc. Research Subcommittee is excited to host the first-ever Research Panel highlighting current research trends in all disciplines (occupational and physical therapy and speech-language pathology) that will include a presentation, live discussion, and Q&A.

There are many research articles that do not properly represent the utilization of equine movement (hippotherapy) creating confusion and the potential for unsafe practices. The AHA, Inc. Research Panel will provide the foundation for discussing the importance of proper terminology, current research trends in all disciplines, how to apply the findings accurately and in a meaningful way and pave the way for future endeavors involving research. Research topics will include utilization of equine movement by physical and occupational therapists and speech language pathologists for various populations and recent trends. 

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

Learning Outcomes: 

• Address the importance of research in clinical practice

• Discuss the current research trends in all disciplines utilizing equine movement (hippotherapy)

• Discuss future implications of the presented research 

Presenters Biography:

Dr. Irina Fedulow Plante is a licensed physical therapist and board certified neurologic clinical specialist. She is the owner of Mountain Neuro Wellness and Physical Therapy Inc and the coordinator for the Achieve Tahoe’s Adaptive Horsemanship Program, both located in Truckee, California. Irina also sits on the American Hippotherapy Association (AHA) Board of Directors and serves as the chair for the AHA, Inc Research Subcommittee.

Heather Panczykowski is an occupational therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience across diverse practice settings, including early intervention, school-based services, long-term care, and home health. She is a PATH International Registered Therapist, a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, and holds certification from the American Hippotherapy Certification Board (AHCB). Heather has been an educator in occupational therapy for 25 years and currently serves as an Associate Professor at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. Her research centers on the impact of collaborative occupational therapy equine programs in developing social skills in children with disabilities, and on sensory processing engagement in two complementary interventions: equine-assisted therapy and horse-riding simulator use.

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.

Dr. Matt Mitchell, PT, DPT, HPCS is a physical therapist at The Shea Center in San Juan Capistrano, California, where he treats children and adults using equine movement as part of his plan of care. He also serves as the Center’s research and data coordinator, supporting clinical studies in partnership with university researchers, including Chapman University and Oregon Institute of Technology. His work focuses on advancing the application of research and technology in hippotherapy and promoting collaboration across the rehabilitation sciences. He also serves the AHA, Inc. as a member of the board of directors, volunteer research committee member, and co-chair of the 2026 biennial conference planning committee.

Presenter Disclosure:

Financial: Matthew Mitchell, Irina Fedulow Plante, Autumn Hayes-Diges, Heather Panczykowski, & Marra Robert are independent contractor for AHA, Inc. and do not receive a fee from AHA, Inc. for instructional services.

Non-Financial: Matthew Mitchell, Irina Fedulow Plante, Autumn Hayes-Diges, Heather Panczykowski, & Marra Robert are members of the AHA, Inc.