Learn & Discover

Equipping you with knowledge

Below you'll find answers to frequently asked questions, helpful information, and resources about our services and the discipline of Hippotherapy — what it is, and how it differs from adaptive horseback riding.

Frequently asked questions

Our therapists assess your specific needs and build a treatment plan targeting the skills that matter most — from motor development to communication to emotional regulation — using evidence-based methods, often paired with our horses.

It starts with a phone consultation, followed by paperwork and an initial assessment. From there, your therapist builds a personalized plan and you begin regular sessions, tracking progress along the way.

Every client's journey is different. Your therapist will set realistic milestones during your initial assessment and check in on progress regularly throughout treatment.

Consistency helps build and reinforce new skills. Weekly sessions give clients the repetition needed for lasting progress while keeping momentum between visits.

Earlier support can make a meaningful difference in developmental outcomes, but it's never too late to start. Our team meets every client where they are.

No — you do not need a doctor's referral to attend Stable Connections. Simply contact our office to book your initial consultation.

Contact our office with your provider details and we'll confirm whether direct billing is available for your plan.

Bring any relevant medical or assessment history, a list of current medications if applicable, and your completed intake paperwork.

How to book an appointment

Three easy steps to book and prepare for your appointment — no doctor's referral needed.

Phone consultation

Consult with our team to access the right services for your child, yourself, or family member.

Paperwork

Complete the required paperwork for the services selected.

Initial assessment

Our team schedules your assessment with the best therapist for your needs, then builds your treatment plan.

Video

What is hippotherapy?

Hippotherapy is the use of the horse in medical treatments. Licensed, specially trained and certified Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, and/or Speech and Language Therapy professionals use the horse's movement in treatment to improve the daily function of people with disabilities.

American Hippotherapy Association — "What is Hippotherapy?"

Hippotherapy & adaptive riding

American Hippotherapy Association training ensures your therapist applies the horse's movement safely and effectively as a clinical treatment tool, not just a recreational activity.

Hippotherapy is led by a licensed therapist using the horse as a treatment tool toward clinical goals. Adaptive riding focuses on teaching riding skills, led by a certified riding instructor.

A recreational and skill-building riding program adapted for riders of all abilities, facilitated by certified Canadian Therapeutic Riding Association (CanTRA) instructors.

Only licensed Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, and Speech-Language Pathologists with specific hippotherapy training can incorporate it into treatment.

A structured, goal-oriented session led by your therapist, with a trained horse handler supporting the horse — all working toward the specific goals in your treatment plan.

Things to ask

With more services in our province incorporating equines, it's important to understand the distinctions between programs to ensure you're accessing safe and appropriate services.

Ask whether instructors are CanTRA-certified, what safety protocols are in place, and how horses are screened and trained for program work.

Ask whether the therapist is licensed in their discipline, has specific hippotherapy training, and how progress toward your treatment goals will be measured.