Welcome to the Stewarts Care Regional Equine Therapy Hub. Due to the nature of our work, we like to ensure that we allocate the right instructor and horse with the right person. We will contact you with a suitable allocated slot as soon as one becomes available. You will be able to see your bookings in Hopoti, but not book in yourself.

Applications are available at this link

The Regional Equine Therapy Hub provides equine-assisted therapy for children and adults with autism, intellectual and physical disabilities. Following the Horse Boy Method, we use movement, environment, and neuroscience to achieve specific therapeutic outcomes.

We use the Horse Boy Method, which is an internationally recognised method shown to deliver positive changes in behaviours and learning openness.

The service is available to children and adults with autism or disabilities in Dublin, Meath, and Kildare. We cater to individuals from special schools, youth groups, and other disability services.

Facilities:

Outdoor facilities and sensory trail

Indoor arena

Specialist horses

Qualified and experienced staff

Accessible playground

Accessible toilets

What is Equine Therapy?

Equine therapy leverages the unique environment and interaction with horses to provide therapeutic benefits targeting physical, sensory, emotional, neurological, educational, and psychosocial goals.

Benefits can include:

Increased core strength

Improved fine and gross motor skills

Enhanced communication

Better regulation

Educational advancements

Greater sense of self

Improved confidence

Waiting

Turn taking

Theory of mind

Activities of daily living

Literacy and numeracy

Relationship building

Fun and enjoyment

Sessions offered-

Mounted Sessions: Achieve specific goals such as communication, motor skills, socialisation, and educational improvements while on horseback.

Yard Sessions: Groundwork activities focus on self-care, nutrition, and daily living skills. Can also include training the horse from the ground, providing the experience of accomplishment and control as the horse follows the individual’s instruction.

Mixed Sessions: Combines riding and groundwork tailored to each individual’s needs.

Playdates: Fun sessions for siblings or friends to share the experience together. Available on request.

Accessing our Service:

Therapy is provided in blocks with sessions between 30 and 45-minutes in duration. Groups from schools or services can also be accommodated. Prioritisation is based on need with referrals accepted from Children's Disability Network Teams, disability organisations, private therapists, GPs, or directly by parents/guardians.

Pricing:

The Equine Therapy Programme is delivered over 12 weeks, with extensions of 6 weeks available if there is continued progression. We are subsidised but not fully funded by government, this is reflected in our pricing.

Type

Individual 1:1 Session: €20 (30 minute session)

Group Rate (up to 6 persons): €20 per person (45 minute session)

Note: Weight restrictions and other contra-indications apply. For further details, contact the Hub