Date of Award

4-24-2026

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Rachel Jackson, OTRL

Second Advisor

Holly Grieves, OTD, OTRL

Abstract

This capstone project explored the role of hippotherapy in occupational therapy through enhanced clinical practice skills as well as supporting program development through community education and funding accumulation for the capstone site organization. Guided by a needs assessment drawn from literature, site mentor input, and other local organizations providing similar services, it was determined that occupational therapy using equine movement provides more impactful results while simultaneously addressing deficits in a variety of areas, but lack of financial resources, community participation, and therapy scholarships threaten the opportunity to expand programs and provide access to individuals who would benefit from services. In response, the project provided community education materials via brochure, website enhancement, social media posts, and direct outreach, as well as a blueprint for a fall fundraising event, grant application, and increased support during occupational therapy sessions, in turn providing increased knowledge and proficiency to the student in this niche practice area. Outcomes included tangible items such as the brochure, fundraiser blueprint and flier, website enhancement, increased community awareness through connections with local business and increased social media presence, and finally the potential for increased funding through grant submission and community outreach. This work highlights the success of utilizing hippotherapy to enhance client outcomes and address a variety of deficit areas in a highly motivating environment.

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