Equine Therapy for Children
Contact and communication with horses and ponies is shown to be highly beneficial for both physical and emotional wellbeing, and for developing a range of skills.
We offer one-to-one therapy for children with additional needs. This is an interactive, experiential therapy involving horses or ponies to address physical, emotional, and cognitive goals for the child.
To discover what we can offer, please send us an email here or call/text (+353) 087 272 7759.
Core Components of Equine Therapy
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP): Focuses on mental health, using groundwork (no riding) to help children explore behaviours and emotions in a non-threatening way.
Therapeutic Riding: Involves riding horses to enhance core strength, balance, and posture, often used for physical disabilities.
Equine Assisted Activities (EAA): Focuses on grooming, feeding, and stable management to improve emotional regulation and confidence.
How It Helps Children
Emotional & Behavioural Growth: Horses respond to non-verbal cues, teaching children about boundaries, empathy, and emotional control.
Physical Benefits: The movement of the horse mimics a human walking gait, aiding in improving balance and coordination.
Mental Health: Used to treat autism spectrum disorders, ADD/ADHD, and trauma by providing a calm, calming, and rewarding environment.
Social Skills: Children learn to work with instructors and peers, improving teamwork and communication skills.
Key Aspects for Children
Non-Verbal Communication: Because horses act on body language, it is highly effective for non-verbal or autistic children.
Reduced Defences: Therapy feels less intimidating and more like an engaging activity rather than traditional clinical, office-based therapy.
Individualized Goals: Programs are tailored to specific needs, such as building social confidence or reducing hyperactivity.
Please contact us find out more about our Equine Therapy sessions for children, on millstreettrekking@gmail.com or (+353) 087 272 7759
Therapy Student Testimonial:
“Jack started horse riding at Cloghoula more Stables with Neil in the summer of last year, and to say he is at his happiest when he’s up on a horse is truly an understatement. From day one, Jack felt comfortable, supported, and excited to attend each session.
Under Neil’s excellent guidance, Jack has made fantastic progress not only in his riding skills but also in his confidence, communication, and independence. Neil has an incredible understanding of Jack’s sensory needs and always works at Jack’s own pace, creating a calm, safe, and encouraging environment where Jack can thrive.
Neil’s patience, kindness, and genuine passion for what he does really shine through. He takes the time to build trust and ensures every session is positive and enjoyable, which has made a huge difference for Jack. The stables themselves are welcoming, relaxed, and perfectly suited for children who benefit from a supportive and structured setting.
Horse riding has become the highlight of Jack’s week. It has helped him grow in confidence, develop new skills, and most importantly, brought him so much joy. We are incredibly grateful to Neil for the understanding, care, and dedication he shows every single week.
We cannot recommend Cloghoula more Stables highly enough to any family especially those looking for an inclusive, patient, and truly special experience for their child.”
Kevin, father of Jack.
