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MiOTA Fall Conference 2026
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Occupational Therapists' Perspectives on Using Hippotherapy for Mental Health Outcomes
Friday October 2, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Rhine (50) POSTERS
This submission is for a poster presentation on our recent study titled Occupational Therapists' Perspectives on Using Hippotherapy for Mental Health Outcomes.
Introduction: This study investigates the perspective of occupational therapists (OTs) who use hippotherapy as a treatment tool on the benefits it has on mental health outcomes among clients.  Methods: Drawing from a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through a survey of OTs with varying levels of experience who use hippotherapy as a treatment tool in their practice. Results: Quantitative results show that 69% of respondents used hippotherapy to treat clients with mental health conditions, 100% of the therapists believed that hippotherapy benefitted the mental health of their clients, and 100% of therapists responded that hippotherapy was moderately effective to extremely effective in addressing mental health concerns. Qualitative responses highlighted significant perceived benefits of hippotherapy, including enhanced self-confidence, reduced anxiety, improved self-regulation, and increased social engagement. Therapists also emphasized the therapeutic value of the human-animal bond, particularly in fostering empathy and collaboration. Discussion: Despite these benefits, participants noted the urgent need for more rigorous, large-scale research studies, increased funding, and standardized guidelines to support broader implementation. The findings underscore the potential of hippotherapy as a treatment tool used in OT interventions for mental well-being and call for greater empirical support to establish its efficacy in clinical settings.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Jacob

Julie Jacob

Program Director, Clinical Associate Professor, University of Michigan - Flint
Julie Jacob is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Michigan-Flint and the Program Director in the Occupational Therapy Program. Julie has been an occupational therapist for 15 years and has experience working in assisted living, memory care, and inpatient rehabilitation... Read More →
avatar for Marra Robert

Marra Robert

Capstone Coordinator, Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Michigan - Flint
Dr. Robert is the Doctoral Capstone Coordinator and Clinical Assistant Professor in the Occupational Therapy Department at the University of Michigan-Flint.  She is a national board-certified occupational therapist and licensed practitioner in the state of Michigan.  Her clinical... Read More →
Friday October 2, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Rhine (50) POSTERS
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