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Hippotherapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Occupational Therapist

Newton, IL · On-site

$38.50 - $50.75/hr

Those with experience treating sensory processing and apraxia or with experience regarding hippotherapy/equine-assisted therapy are encouraged to apply. Those certified in DIR will be given first ...

Those with experience treating sensory processing and apraxia or with experience regarding hippotherapy/equine-assisted therapy are encouraged to apply. Those certified in DIR ® will be given first ...

Occupational Therapist

Newton, IL · On-site

$38.50 - $50.75/hr

Those with experience treating sensory processing and apraxia or with experience regarding hippotherapy/equine-assisted therapy are encouraged to apply. Those certified in DIR will be given first ...

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Hippotherapy information

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$9

$44

$67

How much do hippotherapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for hippotherapy in the United States is $44.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.74 and $50.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Hippotherapy job?

A hippotherapy job involves using horseback riding as a therapeutic treatment for individuals with physical, emotional, or developmental challenges. Professionals, often occupational, physical, or speech therapists, incorporate horse movement to improve balance, coordination, and muscle strength. They work closely with patients to achieve therapy goals while ensuring safety around the horse. This role requires specialized training and certification to effectively integrate equine movement into therapy sessions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Hippotherapy position, and why are they important?

To thrive in hippotherapy, you need a background as a licensed occupational, physical, or speech therapist, along with specialized training in equine-assisted therapy. Certification from organizations such as the American Hippotherapy Association and experience with horses and adaptive equipment are commonly required. Strong interpersonal, observational, and communication skills help facilitate trust and effective therapy with both clients and equine handlers. These competencies ensure safe, evidence-based therapy that maximizes client progress and well-being in a dynamic environment.

What does a typical day look like for a hippotherapy practitioner?

A typical day for a hippotherapy practitioner involves planning and conducting individualized therapy sessions on horseback, assessing client progress, and collaborating closely with horse handlers and other therapy professionals. Daily tasks often include preparing horses and equipment, documenting session outcomes, and communicating with clients’ families and referring healthcare providers. Practitioners may also participate in regular team meetings to review cases and adjust therapy plans. This role requires adaptability and teamwork, as each client’s needs and responses to therapy can vary widely, making every day unique and rewarding.

More about Hippotherapy jobs
What cities are hiring for Hippotherapy jobs? Cities with the most Hippotherapy job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Hippotherapy jobs? The most popular types of Hippotherapy jobs are:
What states have the most Hippotherapy jobs? States with the most job openings for Hippotherapy jobs include:
Infographic showing various Hippotherapy job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $92,039 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Occupational Therapist

Meraki Health

Newton, IL • On-site

$38.50 - $50.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Meraki Health is seeking an experienced Occupational Therapist to provide evaluation and treatment to individuals across the lifespan within a multi-disciplinary private practice. Services would be implemented within an outpatient setting as well as a therapeutic day program. Additional opportunity to participate in equine-assisted therapy and community engagement programs are available. You would be part of a collaborative team of professionals who are passionate about helping others live their best lives!


This is a unique opportunity to do cutting edge work with dedicated support staff who understands and supports development within a private healthcare practice. As a clinician-owned and operated practice, we believe that the "behaviors" that impact daily function are typically a result of challenges with comprehension and communication, challenges in processing sensory information from the environment and staying regulated around a broad range of emotions. With our interpretation of intentions, use of language-based strategies, emotional and sensory support, and an individualized, multi-sensory, engaging and meaningful program, our kids are limitless!


Required Licensure:

Illinois Professional Licensure


Preferred Skills and Experience:

This position is appropriate for someone who can relate and engage with children through play-based intervention. It is for anyone who is committed to enhancing their clinical skills and working within a collaborative multidisciplinary practice. It is for those who want to think critically about innovative ways to support others to reach their potential and maintain a positive relationship with clients and team members while doing so.


Your Role on our Team:

Your role would be to participate in transdisciplinary evaluations, therapeutic intervention within individual outpatient sessions, collaborative cotreats, and group therapy. Those with experience treating sensory processing and apraxia or with experience regarding hippotherapy/equine-assisted therapy are encouraged to apply. Those certified in DIR will be given first priority. All clinicians will receive training regarding DIR.


One must possess the ability to:

-remain present and playfully interact with others

-take direction/coaching from supervisor and spend time in quiet reflection.

-professionally communicate with team members (verbal and written).

-modulate and demonstrate affect appropriate to the situation to facilitate learning.

-support children in ADL's (activities of daily living) including toileting, feeding/eating, etc.

-acknowledge and reflect on child's feelings and behavior in a caring and respectful manner.


Physical Demands of the Job:

Ability to kneel, sit (on a chair or the floor) and stand moving easily and quickly from kneel to stand, sit to stand and stand to walk positions.

Ability to walk up to a mile in distance.

Ability to lift up to 50 pounds easily with no assistance from others.

Ability to engage in and support physical activities initiated by children including but not limited to jumping, running, climbing, rolling, sitting/lying on the floor, swinging.

Ability to physically support students on indoor/outdoor therapeutic equipment.