What does a hippotherapy clinical specialist do?

What is a Hippotherapy Clinical Specialist?

A hippotherapy clinical specialist (HPCS) is a therapist with special training in using horse movement as part of therapy. These professionals work with people who have physical, sensory, or cognitive challenges by using the movement of the horse to help improve things like balance, coordination, and muscle control. They must already be licensed in physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy and then complete extra certification to show expertise in hippotherapy.

HPCS professionals assess how a horse's movement can help people with conditions like cerebral palsy, autism, or stroke recovery. By using the horse's steady movement, they aim to help patients improve their motor skills and overall functioning. These specialists work closely with other therapists and horse handlers to design personalized therapy sessions that best support each patient’s unique needs.

What does a Hippotherapy Clinical Specialist do?

Duties and Responsibilities
A hippotherapy clinical specialist has several key duties and responsibilities, primarily centered on incorporating horse movement into therapy for patients with various physical, cognitive, or sensory conditions. Here are some of their main duties:

Patient Assessment: The HPCS evaluates patients to determine how they can benefit from hippotherapy. They assess the patient’s physical, cognitive, and emotional needs, determining if the movement of the horse can be an effective therapy method.
Therapeutic Planning: Based on the assessment, the HPCS develops a personalized therapy plan. This plan focuses on using horse movement to address goals like improving balance, coordination, strength, and motor control.
Implementation of Therapy: During therapy sessions, the specialist oversees the patient’s positioning on the horse, making adjustments to ensure the best therapeutic effect. They guide how the horse’s movement is used to create the desired physical responses in the patient’s body.
Collaboration with Other Professionals: The HPCS works alongside other health professionals, such as occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech therapists, and equine handlers, to provide a well-rounded treatment approach.
Monitoring and Adjustments: They continuously monitor the patient’s progress and adjust the therapy as needed to ensure it remains effective. This may involve altering the speed or direction of the horse's movement or changing therapy techniques.
Patient Education: The specialist also educates patients and their families about the therapy process, what to expect, and how it supports rehabilitation or developmental goals.

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What is the workplace of a Hippotherapy Clinical Specialist like?

The workplace of a hippotherapy clinical specialist is typically in environments where horses and healthcare therapy intersect. This often includes specialized therapy centers or rehabilitation facilities that have equestrian programs. These centers are designed with areas where both patients and horses can safely interact. The specialist works with both indoor therapy rooms and outdoor riding arenas, which allow for a range of activities and treatment plans.

The riding arena is a key feature in many facilities. Here, the specialist works directly with patients and horses, using horse movements to facilitate therapy. The arena must be safe and accessible, not only for the horses but for patients of varying abilities. It’s usually equipped with therapeutic riding equipment, safety gear, and the appropriate surfaces to minimize risks during therapy sessions.

HPCS professionals also spend time in clinical settings, where they assess patients and collaborate with other healthcare providers. This part of the workplace may resemble a more traditional healthcare environment, such as offices or treatment rooms, where patient progress is monitored, and therapy plans are adjusted.

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Hippotherapy Clinical Specialists are also known as:
HPCS Hippotherapist