Hippotherapy is a type of therapy that uses horses as a therapeutic tool to help individuals with various physical, emotional, and cognitive challenges. It is typically conducted by licensed occupational therapists, physical therapists, or speech-language pathologists who have received specialized training in hippotherapy techniques through an accredited, regulatory body. Riding a horse has a wealth of physical and cognitive benefits throughts provision of movements that mimic the human gait pattern. This can help improve balance, coordination, muscle strength, and flexibility. The rhythmic movement of the horse also stimulates sensory input and promotes postural control among many others. 

Interacting with horses can have a calming and soothing effect on participants. The bond formed between the rider and the horse can boost confidence, self-esteem, and motivation. Sessions often provide a positive and enjoyable experience, reducing stress and anxiety while stimulating social connection with therapists, volunteers, and most importantly, other riders. This social environment can help participants develop communication skills, social skills and emotional regulation methods when in public spaces. Depending on the participant's goals and needs, hippotherapy can be tailored to target specific areas such as speech and language development, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, cognitive development, and sensory processing. 

Hippotherapy has a history that dates back to ancient Greek, Egyptian and Chinese civilizations where horses were recognized for their healing powers, and riding was sometimes used as a form of therapy for physical and emotional well-being in contrast to their utility in logistics and war.  The formal development of hippotherapy as a therapeutic intervention began in the post-World War II era. Scandinavian countries such as Norway and Sweden played a significant role in pioneering hippotherapy techniques using horseback riding as a rehabilitation tool for individuals with physical disabilities and injuries. 

One of the pioneers of modern hippotherapy is Dr. Liz Hartel, a Danish equestrian who overcame polio and went on to win a silver medal in dressage at the 1952 Olympics. Her personal experience and accomplishments in the face of overwhelming odds highlighted the therapeutic potential of horseback riding for individuals with mobility challenges. She went on to establish Europes first therapeutic riding center, capturing the attention of the medical community. By the mid 60's, hippotherapy gained recognition across Europe and gradually into North America as therapists began to formalize and study its therapeutic effects and ultimiately led to the establishment of organizations such as the American Hippotherapy Association (AHA) and the American Hippotherapy Certification Board (AHCB), standardizing hippotherapy practices and ensuring would be therapists are properly educated and certified.Today, It is recognized as a valuable adjunct therapy for participants with developmental and intellectual disabilities driving significant impact in many aspects of their quality of life.