We are thrilled to be able to tell you that we have had approval from Ulster University for the new course – Equine Facilitated Therapy for Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and Speech Therapists.
How to become qualified in Equine Facilitated Therapy and Hippotherapy
You will need to successfully complete the Equine Facilitated Therapy for Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists and Speech Therapists course run by Ulster University.
This is a Level 7 post graduate course giving a 60 credit PG Cert.
It is a part time course, with online theory over 10 weeks followed by an intensive four day practical course for each module.
This qualification enables qualified allied health professionals (AHP’s) to practice clinically within Equine Facilitated Therapy and Hippotherapy on successful completion of the course. There is also the option to use the credits towards further study and a PGDip or Masters qualification.
This course launched in 2021 as a pilot then 2022 with its first full cohort, is part of the MSc Advancing Practice in an AHP Specialism with Ulster University.
Module 1 – The Equine and the Therapeutic Environment
This module will enable Allied Health Professionals to select, assess and evaluate the suitability of a horse in preparation for delivering an effective EFT programme in a safe environment. Clinicians will develop an understanding and be able to use EFT in the management of patients/clients with diverse clinical needs.
Module 2 – Clinical Practice in Equine Facilitated Therapy for Allied Health Professionals
This module will enable Allied Health Professional (AHP) students to:
- assess clients for the appropriate use of EFT
- plan and deliver safe and evidence-based EFT
- evaluate the effectiveness of EFT
For more information or to join the waiting list for the next course, please contact Mrs Orlagh Daly, Module Coordinator at o.daly@ulster.ac.uk.
Previous CPTRH Hippotherapy Course:
Historically we have delivered the Hippotherapy course for Physiotherapists as ACPTR then CPTRH for many years. Over this time the course has evolved and changed, in order to fulfil students needs and the needs of the ever changing health provision. Prior to the course run by Ulster University, health professionals completed the Hippotherapy course run by CPTRH alongside Robert Gorden University. This qualification remains valid and ensures the health professional has the required level of training to practice hippotherapy clinically, within their scope of practice.
