Equine Assisted Therapy Practice in Dublin I

Experience Real-World Equine Assisted Therapy in Action

11th to 15th August 2025

Eight Learners, Eight Children,
One Inspiring Week

We welcomed eight learners from Ireland, Romania, Slovenia, Belgium, and Saudi Arabia for an intensive hands-on practice week in Dublin. Together, they worked with eight children, the youngest just 18 months old.

This intensive format was a completely new experience — not only for our learners, but also for the children, their parents, and staff members, who are used to attending just once a week. Four children received two 15-minute physiotherapy sessions per day for five days, while four occupational therapy clients had one 30-minute session each day.

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

Testimonials from our learners

I came to the course to get real-life experience of equine-assisted therapy. Without any background in people-related services, my goal was to understand if this was the direction I wanted to go. The course did more than to meet my expectations. I received full guidance and could observe and participate to the extent that I felt comfortable. I could even brainstorm with the therapist on the approach to take with the client and take the lead of the session, always under close guidance. This was probably the most transformative course I have ever attended, definitely worth the investment.
Agnė GlodnytėBelgium
I spent three days working alongside Audrey and Vera. The knowledge I gained within that short space of time is invaluable to my own practise. Having the opportunity to see the different outcomes from both a physio and an OT approach helped affirm the monumental impact of working with our equine partners. Audrey's team were so welcoming and professional. The horses were a credit to the care they recieve from the team of dedicated staff. It was a privilege to work with clients with such varied diagnoses and have the opportunity to talk to parents who were so open about their experiences. The highlight was seeing the children smile and the horses content in their work.
HannahFestina Lente, Ireland
Last year, I enrolled in a course to become a hippotherapist — equine-assisted physiotherapist— through Svitani - Academy of Equine Assisted Services. This week I spent in Dublin, where we had our practical module – I gained hands-on experience, deepened my knowledge, and met some wonderful people. It was truly an unforgettable experience, full of learning, connection, and new perspectives. Thank you to Vera and Audrey for this opportunity and for everything you shared with us – your knowledge, experience, and inspiration.
Klara PopovičSlovenia
It was a pleasure to participate in the course, and I have gained insights that I will carry into my own practice. Firstly, thank you to Audrey and Vera for sharing their valuable knowledge and expertise. Gaining perspectives from both an OT and physio highlighted the wide range of benefits that equine-assisted services can provide. The structure of the course reinforced this learning. Its design created opportunities to observe practice and outcomes first-hand. During the course, it was a privilege to work alongside such incredible clients and their families. Thank you to everyone involved in organising and running the course and to the EquiSense team for its flawless running. And of course, to their incredible team of horses, without whom this work could not be done. Overall, being on the course with a passionate and like-minded group made every moment a learning opportunity.
TaraFestina Lente, Ireland

Testimonials from parents

Noah did so well all week. I have seen significant improvements in Noah’s gross motor and communication skills from the beginning to the end of the week. Noah crawled, which he has never done at 4 years of age, and was responding to conversation without being told to. I found immense benefit in doing an intensive week and would definitely like to do it again. The insights that Audrey has given into Noah’s behaviour and development have also been invaluable. Thank you for an excellent week.
LanaIreland
1 full intensive week was really beneficial for Hannah as she likes routine and familiarity with location, people, and animals. Hannah has managed 2 sessions very well and is tired later in the day, taking a 1-hour nap. Attending each day for a week means she adapts quickly from the day before, as opposed to a wider gap between sessions. Having other students and more people present motivates Hannah as she is very social. We have noticed that she walks more upright in the evening with improved mobility, when she is usually dragging one limb to one side.
John & SallyIreland
Our son Coen has benefitted greatly from his attendance at EquiSense. Coen has been doing weekly sessions with Audrey and the team for a couple of months, and we have noticed huge improvements in his stability and confidence in his movements. He has just completed a week-long course which consisted of two sessions per day. This has solidified and progressed his strength tremendously. Coen has a rare genetic disorder called Pitt-Hopkins, which affects his physical and intellectual development. We would like to thank Audrey and all of the staff at EquiSense.
Coen´s motherIreland
I found the week fantastic. All of the people have been great and informative. I feel Aiden has really enjoyed the social aspect and being around kids of similar age and challenges. I have noticed that Aiden is walking more and his strength seems to improve along with his posture. He really enjoyed both time on the horse and in the stable. Only improvement I could suggest is maybe have the sensory room a slightly more comfy spot that the kids might play, crawl, and engage in. I have learned a lot this week and would happily attend any future intensive sessions. The fact Aiden cries in the car when leaving sums it all up. Thank Audrey and the team, both me and Aiden really enjoyed the week.
Aiden´s FatherIreland
Luna arrived on Monday after about a 5-week break. She wasn’t happy on the horse, cried and looked tense in her body. I brought her on Wednesday through to Friday and observed a big change in her. She was/is much more relaxed, willing to be positioned in multiple ways, laughed and smiled and responded vocally to those working with her. She showed a lot more love/joy on the horse than she has in her lifetime! Thank you to the whole team for your warmth, your professionalism, and care for Luna. Special thanks to Audrey for including Luna in this week.
Luna´s GrandmotherIreland
I think this week’s work has really helped Reggie deal with big changes at home. I’ve seen improvements in his mood. He seems more relaxed and hasn’t gotten too frustrated over things that may have upset him in the past. I’ve seen great improvements in Reggie’s ability to listen to instructions. He has been happy to walk and wait beside me and not try to run away. He hasn’t tried to escape his seatbelt once all week, which was a big issue before. I’ve also seen some improvements in his sleeping. I think we were very lucky this week landed when it did with the new baby at home. It’s been a great help to Reggie and we can’t thank you enough. Thanks,
PaulIreland

Meet Your Lecturers

Věra Lantelme-Faisan, MSc

Physiotherapist
Equine Assisted Therapy Clinical Specialist

Czech Republic

Audrey Darby, BSc

Occupational Therapist
Equine Assisted Therapy Clinical Specialist

Ireland

Real-World Clinical Practice

Over five days, you will have the chance to:

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

Who Should Attend?

  • Practising Therapists: Enhance your therapeutic repertoire with practical experience in Equine Assisted Therapy.
  • 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.

Join Us in Dublin for a Transformative Experience

Step into the real-world practice of Equine Assisted Therapy and learn directly from experts. This five-day shadowing and hands-on programme in Dublin offers you the opportunity to observe, assist, and develop new skills in a live clinical setting. We look forward to welcoming you in August.

Registration and further information

Secure Your Place Today
Apply now to shadow experienced therapists and gain the skills needed to advance your career in Equine Assisted Therapy.

Date: 11th to 15th August 2025.

Location: EquiSence, Lagore Big, Co Meath, A85 RD21

Recommended accommodation, where our participants stay at:
Duffys of Ballybin, Ballybin, Ashbourne, Co. Meath
Swuite Dublin
DCU Rooms All Hallows

Arrival: 10th August
Departure: Evening of 15th August or morning of 16th August

GDPR Compliance:
The organizer will retain your personal data, including your name, email address, and telephone number, for communication purposes until you submit a written request for removal.

Recordings and Publication
By registering and paying for any of our educational events (including courses, webinars, or workshops), you acknowledge and consent that photos and video recordings may be taken during the event. These materials may be used for future reference, educational purposes, and promotional activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this Equine Assisted Therapy Practice designed for?

The session is ideal for practising therapists, healthcare professionals, career changers, and trainees interested in gaining practical experience through shadowing and assisting in live paediatric sessions.

Do I need prior experience with Equine Assisted Therapy?

No prior experience is required. This programme is designed to offer valuable insights whether you are new to the field or seeking to enhance your existing practice.

What should I prepare before attending?

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing suitable for both indoor and outdoor activities. Bring a notebook for observations and questions, and come ready to engage in a dynamic learning environment.