Equine Assisted Therapy Practice in Dublin, Ireland

Looking for education and practical experience in Equine Assisted Therapy in Ireland?

Our previous Equine Assisted Therapy Practice Week in Dublin has now finished, but opportunities to experience Equine Assisted Services in practice continue in Ireland.

If you are looking for hands-on experience, clinical observation or practical learning, we recommend contacting EquiSense Integrated Equine Assisted Services, located in Co Meath near Dublin.

EquiSense is led by Audrey Darby, Occupational Therapist and Equine Assisted Therapy Clinical Specialist. Audrey also lectures on Svítání Academy’s Equine Assisted Therapy Clinical Specialist programme, contributing her clinical and practical expertise to the education of future professionals. Together with an experienced multidisciplinary team, EquiSense provides Equine Assisted Occupational Therapy and other Equine Assisted Services for children and families.

Continue your professional learning

Practical experience is most valuable when supported by a clear understanding of professional roles, safety, equine welfare, clinical reasoning, and scope of practice.

New to Equine Assisted Services?

Core Principles of Equine Assisted Services is our 74-hour online foundation programme, providing a structured introduction to safe, ethical, and professional practice across the field.

→ Explore Core Principles of Equine Assisted Services

Are you a physiotherapist or healthcare professional?

The Equine Assisted Therapy Clinical Specialist (EATCS) is an OCN London Level 5 Certificate designed for qualified healthcare professionals who want to develop Equine Assisted Therapy within their existing professional scope.

The qualification is recognised by PATH International and ACPEA – Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Equine Activities, UK, providing important international and professional recognition.

The 300-hour programme combines online learning with practical assignments, case-based work, video submissions, tutor feedback and assessed evidence of competence, supporting learners in developing the clinical reasoning and practical skills required for professional Equine Assisted Therapy practice.

→ Explore the Level 5 EATCS qualification

Looking for a professional pathway in Equine Assisted Learning?

The Equine Assisted Learning Practitioner is an OCN London Level 4 Certificate designed for psychologists, educators, social professionals and others who want to develop structured, purposeful Equine Assisted Learning practice.

The 260-hour programme combines online learning with practical tasks, portfolio work, video submissions, tutor feedback and assessed evidence of competence. It prepares learners to plan and facilitate Equine Assisted Learning sessions within their professional scope.

→ Explore the Level 4 Equine Assisted Learning Practitioner qualification

Previous Equine Assisted Therapy Practice Week in Dublin

The information, photographs and testimonials below relate to our previous intensive practice programme in Ireland. We are keeping them here to give you an insight into the learning experience and clinical work undertaken during the week.

Four Learners, Six Children,
Four Inspiring Days

We welcomed learners from Ireland, Northern Ireland, Latvia and Sudan for EAT hands-on experience in Dublin. Together, we worked with six children, having two 15-minute physiotherapy or occupational therapy sessions per day for 4 days.

Enjoy the photos and discover the testimonials from this inspiring week.

Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Svitani Academy international EAS education – OCN London Centre and Ofqual regulated
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
EAPT – Equine Assisted Physiotherapy online course physiotherapy and horse movement – Svitani Academy Equine Assisted Physiotherapy training
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Vera Lantelme-Faisan – educator in Equine Assisted Therapy
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Vera Lantelme-Faisan – educator in Equine Assisted Therapy
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Vera Lantelme-Faisan – educator in Equine Assisted Therapy
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Core Principles in Equine Assisted Services course – Svitani Academy
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course

Testimonials from our learners

As a physiotherapist, I am always seeking new ways to support clients through holistic and evidence-based approaches. My experience training with Svítání Academy and EquiSense, particularly under guidance of Vera and Audrey, was really transformative – a perfect blend of theory, practice and reflective learning. Vera and Audrey are knowledgeable and really compassionate. They create the environment of safety, curiosity and growth. I truly got deeper understanding of equine assisted physiotherapy. The experience is really grounding. I would really recommend these courses for physiotherapists and OT specialists looking to expand their skill set and explore equine assisted interventions on a professional level. Just dive into this amazing experience!!! ❤
Aleksandra PalubinskaPhysiotherapist, Latvia
This experience was very inspiring to me. Everyone was truly amazing and very skilled, creative and compassionate in every session. I was really impressed with how the clients improved from the first day to the fourth; their balance, confidence and engagement improved really well. This experience is truly heartwarming and unforgettable. Thank you for this wonderful experience. 😊❤
Rawan AhmedPhysiotherapist, Sudan
As a physiotherapist with some experience of using hippotherapy, it was amazing to be able to get lots more hands-on practice with a variety of children. I loved seeing smaller children and learned how their brains are so plastic and can learn optimal movement patterns through the rhythmic movement given to them by the horse. It was great to work with OTs and I found the sensory and regulatory effects fascinating to watch – changes happen in real time. I learned to do less and let the horse’s movement do the work. To speak less, feel alignment more and not be afraid to change positions or stay in one position if it is working well.
JoyPhysiotherapist, Northern Ireland
Massive thanks to Audrey and Vera! What an amazing experience and an absolute privilege to spend 4 days with the best educators around. It has been wonderful to work alongside other allied health professionals and learn from their perspectives. You both created such a positive, encouraging learning environment. I loved learning in the moment and also having the time to discuss our learning at the end of each day. Thank you both so much!
KellyOccupational Therapit, Ireland

Testimonials from parents

Daire has benefitted hugely from the intensive clinic this week. I have observed measurable differences in his regulation, sleep & engagement whilst getting intensive input, as well as increased communication – initiating more interactions & using new & more language. Daire has persistent sleep challenges. However, every night since the clinic started, he has slept for 11 hour stretches, with just one brief waking. Another significant piece is that Daire has tolerated a haircut by myself – split into 2 days. Typically for Daire, he becomes extremely distressed if I attempt to cut his hair. He goes into fight or flight mode, running away, cries intensely to the extent of almost vomiting. However, this week he calmly tolerated a haircut with minimal support. Daire really enjoys this input which is hugely important as he's motivated to attend & take part. I am so grateful to Audrey as the team facilitating this clinic to include Daire & to bring this innovative way of working to our children. Thank you! We would be so grateful to have the opportunity to take part in any further intensive clinics.
SarahIreland
What a beautiful experience this week has been for both us and our daughter, Hannah. Everyone has shown such warmth and enthusiasm to us, and in particular Hannah. The work and dedication shown is extraordinary. It’s great for Hannah to have an opportunity to engage in an activity that is both a hobby and therapy. Very encouraging to have professionals from abroad.
John & SallyIreland
Reggie has really enjoyed this week. I feel like it's been a great benefit to him. He seems to be going through a bit of a developmental leap at the moment and has been frustrated trying to get the speech out. I feel this week has helped to regulate him and his speech is really coming on as a result. His general mood also seems much happier.
PaulIreland
Hannah has enjoyed the intensive course. I like the way that there are two sessions in order to reinforce the work that she has done. I do find the hour wait a bit too long for her and perhaps because she is so young she can be a bit reluctant to do the second session. I do see improvements in her sitting position and head control and her strength in her shoulders and upper arms. She enjoys the experience of horseback – it makes it easier for her to do physiotherapy on horseback. It is so clear that Vera and Audrey are so experienced and their attention to detail and focus is invaluable. I can see that they know what stage Hannah is at and what work she needs to concentrate on at any one time. In addition, this is a lovely sensory experience for Hannah and the wonderfully calming company of the horses is a lovely bonus. I am so grateful to have found Audrey and Vera because I believe Hannah will hugely benefit from them.
Hannah´s motherIreland
Robyn and Aubrey ride regularly with EquiSense. The therapy has been transformative, particularly for Aubrey who is on the autistic spectrum. She has gained better self-regulation and acquired many life skills as a result of the therapy. Coming to the stables has become a much-looked-forward-to weekly ritual for them both.
MichelleIreland

Meet Your Lecturers

Věra Lantelme-Faisan, MSc

Physiotherapist
Equine Assisted Therapy Clinical Specialist

Czech Republic

Read more

Audrey Darby, BSc

Occupational Therapist
Equine Assisted Therapy Clinical Specialist

Ireland

Read more
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course

Real-World Clinical Practice

Over 4 days, learners did:

  • Shadow and Assist: Joined Audrey (Occupational Therapist) and Vera (Physiotherapist) as they conducted scheduled sessions with paediatric clients.
  • Gain Practical Skills: Learnt firsthand how to handle clients and assist in treatment delivery, developing skills that you can incorporate into your own practice.
  • Experience Team Treatment: Witnessed the benefits of a collaborative approach as Audrey and Vera lead a team treatment, providing insights into effective, multidisciplinary care.

For whom was it intended?

  • Practising Therapists: Enhance your therapeutic repertoire with practical experience in Equine Assisted Therapy.
  • CPD hours: programme is recognised for 20 CPD hours of structured professional learning for Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists.
  • Healthcare Professionals: Broaden your clinical skills with hands-on client interaction.
  • Career Changers: Explore a new professional pathway by engaging directly with live client sessions.
  • Students and Trainees: Observe expert techniques and gain valuable insights into the practicalities of Equine Assisted Therapy.
Equine Assisted Therapy practical training in Porto – Svitani Academy EAT hands-on practice with horses in Portugal Svitani Academy EAT practical course