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Equestrian Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Physical Therapist - Full Time

Ocala, FL ยท On-site

$1.4K - $1.9K/wk

Minimum Requirements: * Master's or Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy preferred. Bachelor ... equestrian facilities and events reflecting the region's horse-country heritage. Downtown Ocala ...

Occupational Therapist - Full Time

Ocala, FL ยท On-site

$36 - $47.50/hr

The city is also known for its equestrian events and festivals, making it a unique place to live and work. Impacting Patient Care Nationwide Jackson Therapy Partners offers a variety of career ...

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Equestrian Therapy information

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$7

$24

$54

How much do equestrian therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for equestrian therapy in the United States is $24.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $29.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is equestrian therapy?

Equestrian therapy, also known as equine-assisted therapy or hippotherapy, is a form of therapy that uses interactions with horses to promote physical, emotional, and psychological healing. It is often used to help individuals with physical disabilities, autism, PTSD, anxiety, and other challenges. During sessions, clients may ride, groom, or care for horses under the guidance of a licensed therapist and a horse handler. The movement of the horse can help improve balance, coordination, and muscle strength, while the bond formed with the animal can support emotional growth and confidence. Equestrian therapy programs are tailored to each individual's specific needs and therapeutic goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an equestrian therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Equestrian Therapist, you need a background in psychology, occupational therapy, or physical therapy, combined with specialized training or certification in equine-assisted therapy. Familiarity with therapy protocols, safety procedures, and experience handling horses are essential, often supported by certifications from organizations like PATH International. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to communicate effectively with clients of all ages stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for providing safe, effective therapeutic experiences that promote both physical and emotional well-being for clients.

What are some common challenges faced by equestrian therapists when working with clients?

Equestrian therapists often encounter challenges such as adapting therapy sessions to meet the diverse physical and emotional needs of clients, ensuring the safety of both the participant and the horse, and maintaining clear communication between multidisciplinary team members. Another common challenge is managing the unpredictable behavior of horses, which requires therapists to be highly attentive and flexible in their approach. Building trust with clients, especially those with anxiety or trauma, can also take time but is crucial for successful therapy outcomes.

What is the difference between Equestrian Therapy vs Equine-Assisted Activities Coordinator?

AspectEquestrian TherapyEquine-Assisted Activities Coordinator
CredentialsTherapeutic riding certification, healthcare or therapy backgroundEquine activity certification, event planning experience
Work EnvironmentTherapy sessions with clients, clinics, therapy centersEvent venues, stables, community programs
Industry UsageHealthcare, therapy, rehabilitationRecreation, community outreach, education

Equestrian Therapy focuses on therapeutic riding to improve clients' physical and mental health, often requiring healthcare credentials. In contrast, an Equine-Assisted Activities Coordinator organizes equine-related events and programs, emphasizing recreation and community engagement. Both roles involve working with horses but serve different purposes and client needs.

What can you do with an equestrian therapy degree?

An equestrian therapy degree prepares individuals to work as therapeutic riding instructors, equine-assisted therapists, or program coordinators in settings such as clinics, schools, or rehabilitation centers. Graduates often obtain certifications like PATH Intl. to enhance employment opportunities and may work with clients with physical, emotional, or developmental needs, utilizing skills in horse handling, therapy techniques, and client assessment.
More about Equestrian Therapy jobs

What cities are hiring for Equestrian Therapy jobs?

Cities with the most Equestrian Therapy job openings:

What states have the most Equestrian Therapy jobs?

States with the most job openings for Equestrian Therapy jobs include:

Infographic showing various Equestrian Therapy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,078 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Physical Therapist - Full Time

Jackson Therapy

Ocala, FL โ€ข On-site

$1.4K - $1.9K/wk

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

We're looking for a Physical Therapist to take on a full-time role with one of our area clients. You'll help patients move better, feel better, and stay active-whether they're recovering from an injury or managing long-term conditions. Apply today and a recruiter will reach out with the details.
Minimum Requirements:

  • Master's or Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy preferred. Bachelor's, Master's or Doctoral Degree in Physical Therapy from an accredited school approved by the APTA is acceptable.
  • Current Florida Physical Therapist license required.
  • Current CPR certification required.
  • Experience providing outpatient physical therapy services preferred.
  • Experience evaluating patients and developing individualized treatment plans.
  • Experience documenting accurate, timely, and compliant clinical notes.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care.

Benefits:
  • Relocation assistance available.
  • Full-time direct hire opportunity.
  • Competitive annual salary for direct hire roles.
  • Supportive, team-oriented work environment.
  • Healthy work-life balance.

Location Highlights
Ocala, FL offers outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and convenient access to regional amenities. Visitors and residents enjoy nearby Silver Springs State Park for glass-bottom boat tours and paddling, the Ocala National Forest for hiking and off-road trails, and numerous local equestrian facilities and events reflecting the region's horse-country heritage. Downtown Ocala provides dining, galleries, and seasonal community events. Proximity to I-75 supports easy travel to larger metropolitan areas and regional beaches.
Impacting Patient Care Nationwide
Jackson Therapy Partners offers a variety of career options for physical therapists including direct hire positions, temp-to-hire, and travel contracts. Thanks to nationwide partnerships with clients from every setting, we help therapy professionals find the right job including competitive compensation, benefits, relocation assistance, and sign-on opportunities, all at no cost to you. Discover options using ProVenture, our AI enhanced career app.
EEO Statement
Jackson Healthcare and its family of companies are an EEO/AA Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and expression, national origin, age, disability or protected veteran status. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all of our associates.