Therapy Services

Discover the transformative therapy services at The Shea Center, where equine interaction enhances physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being. Our expert clinicians, holding master’s and doctorate level medical degrees, provide physical, occupational, and speech therapy, as well as psychotherapy, in a dynamic environment that harnesses the healing power of horse movement and interaction. Tailored to each individual’s needs, our programs offer benefits beyond traditional therapy settings, helping clients build strength, confidence, and connection. Experience the unique impact of therapy with the help of the horse—where growth happens in partnership with horses.

Hippotherapy (HPOT)– Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapies

Hippotherapy involves licensed therapists using the movement of a horse as a treatment tool to address specific therapy goals in physical, occupational, or speech therapy. This approach allows clients to experience the therapeutic benefits of equine movement while mounted on the horse.

At The Shea Center, hippotherapy is more than just time spent with horses—it’s a dynamic, evidence-based approach to physical, occupational, and speech therapy. The term “hippotherapy” comes from the Greek word hippos, meaning horse, but this therapy isn’t about learning to ride. Instead, our team of physical, occupational, and speech therapists use the natural movement of a horse as a powerful treatment tool to help clients improve strength, coordination, speech, and overall function.

Key Benefits of Hippotherapy

• Physical Therapy (PT): gross motor development, strength, balance, coordination, and functional independence
• Occupational Therapy (OT): fine motor development, sensory processing, emotional regulation, self-care
• Speech Therapy (ST or SLP): speech clarity, language development, social communication, cognitive-linguistic skills, and swallowing function.

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP)

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy is a non-mounted therapeutic intervention provided by a licensed mental health professional. EAP utilizes ground-based activities with horses to provide biofeedback to patients. This real-time feedback encourages clients to explore emotional challenges, build self-awareness, enhance social skills, and regulate stress. The horse’s herd-based behavior and prey-animal mentality create a unique and reflective environment that supports personal growth and emotional regulation.

Key Benefits of equine assisted Psychotherapy

• Helps clients identify and manage emotions through biofeedback from the horse.
• Promotes emotional regulation, self-confidence, and improved communication techniques.
• Supports personal growth, resilience, and relationship-building in a therapeutic setting.