HorsePlay Therapy Center is a not-for-profit therapy organization, located in the heart of St. Augustine, FL, that specializes in serving children with special needs and veterans with PTSD and other life-altering injuries. Our two facilities are based on the leading national medical therapy model that is proven and well recognized. HorsePlay Therapy Center is staffed by licensed physical, occupational, speech, and mental health therapists, as well as trained volunteers. We are one of the few organizations in the Southeast that is dedicated to providing a comprehensive medical model of Hippotherapy and Equine Therapy to the children and veterans we serve.
Who We Serve: HorsePlay Therapy Center serves children with diagnoses such as Down Syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Genetic abnormalities, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder. Additionally, through the Rise Up program located at our satellite barn, we serve veterans suffering from PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Wounded in Combat, Abuse Trauma, and Hazing Trauma. No child or veteran is denied treatment based on their ability to pay.
What is Hippotherapy? Hippotherapy is a treatment strategy used by specially trained physical, occupational, and speech therapists who position the child on the horse, analyze the child’s movement response and direct the horse’s movement accordingly. The therapist facilitates just the right challenge for each child. Hippotherapy addresses impairments, functional limitations, and disabilities in patients with neuromotor and sensory dysfunction. This treatment strategy is used as part of an integrated treatment program to achieve functional goals.
What is Equine Therapy? Equine Therapy, also known as Equine-Assisted Therapy (EAT), is a treatment that includes equine activities in an equine environment in order to promote physical, occupational, and emotional growth for veterans suffering from the physical wounds of war, PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and many other mental health challenges. Rehabilitative goals are related to the patient’s needs and the therapist’s standards of practice. Interacting with horses builds trust and confidence and strengthens emotional bonds with each session.
