Eq Cetera Inc.

Eq Cetera Inc. is a leading provider of Hippotherapy, Adaptive horse riding and Equine facilitated learning.

Hippotherapy may be defined as “a Physical,  Occupational or Speech therapy treatment strategy utilising equine engagement and movement. Hippotherapy is used as part of an integrated treatment programme to achieve functional outcomes.” With an ever increasing number of people seeking non traditional treatment in functionally relevant community-based non-clinical settings, hippotherapy is growing in popularity. To meet increasing demand and make this strategy more available and accessible Eq Cetera will provide highly trained horses, horse handlers, coaches and volunteers , and a safe working environment to therapists who wish to avail of this treatment strategy. Hippotherapy is recognised under NDIS and most clients will receive funding via their NDIS plans. Independent and non-NDIS clients will also be catered for – all sessions will be delivered under the direction of a qualified therapist.

Adaptive Horse Riding (is sometimes referred to as Therapeutic Riding) is an equine-assisted activity for the purpose of contributing positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being of participants with special needs. Therapeutic riding provides benefits in the areas of health, education, sport and recreation and leisure. A disability does not have to limit a person from riding horses. In fact, experiencing the motion of a horse can be very therapeutic. Because horseback riding rhythmically moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to a human gait, riders with physical disabilities often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength. In addition to the therapeutic benefits, horseback riding also provides recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities to enjoy the outdoors.

Our Adaptive Horse Riding program enhances an individual’s emotional, physical, cognitive, social and behavioural skills. Learning to care for and control a 500 kg animal has been shown to bring about a sense of achievement and satisfaction. A horse’s walking gait mimics that of the human stride. When the horse’s gait changes to trot or canter the rider’s balance, strength, flexibility and coordination are enhanced.  Not only do we teach riding skills, we extend learning to include basic horsemanship so that our clients can be skilled, responsible and thoughtful. (all Eq Cetera Adaptive Riding sessions are supervised by RDA qualified Instructors).

EFL uses a horse as the  motivational vehicle for learning and positive behavioural change.

At the Eq Cetera center we meet with each of our riders and their families to discuss their goals. Goals may include basic riding skills, or the desire to   improve self-esteem and communication skills.