The Hippotherapy Assistants Booklet: Empowering HorsePower Hippotherapy teams and enhancing therapeutic outcomes for clients

The Hippotherapy Assistants Booklet has been a game-changer for HorsePower Hills since its release in July 2023. This booklet is tailored specifically for our Hippotherapy Assistants, who were once called ‘Side Walkers’, and it's packed with practical advice and must-know tips to help them thrive in their roles.

Sheila Seal with volunteers (Ginny and Sarah) and Danny the pony showcasing the Hippotherapy Assistants Booklet

The booklet brings together years of experience and best practices into one convenient resource. It covers everything assistants need to know, from ensuring clients are wearing the right safety gear to understanding the therapeutic holds and positions therapists use during sessions. It’s all laid out in a way that’s easy to understand and refer back to, making it super helpful for anyone new to the role or even seasoned assistants who need a quick refresher.

No longer do new assistants have to rely solely on rapid on-the-job learning. This worked for some, but it could also be pretty overwhelming. Now, with this booklet, they’ve got a guide they can rely on whenever they need it, helping them feel more prepared and confident.

“This booklet gives our assistants the know-how and confidence to support each session with care and safety. It’s a gentle reminder of how important they truly are—and it’s always there to guide them whenever they need a helping hand.”, says Sheila Seal, Physiotherapist and author of the booklet.

What’s really great is how the booklet shines a light on just how important the assistants are. They’re the ones closest to the client, ready to step in if something goes wrong and making sure the session runs smoothly. Their connection with the client can make a big difference, not only in how enjoyable the session is but also in how effective it is for therapy.

So far, 48 copies of the booklet have been handed out across our Hills and St. Leonards centres, and the feedback has been fantastic. Assistants feel more supported and reassured they have a reference to return to if needed.

A huge thank-you goes to Sheila Seal (Physiotherapist), Jane Liddard (Occupational Therapist), Willie Warnock (Coach), and John Hassell (IT Support) for putting their heart and soul into creating this guide. It’s already making a big impact, and we’re excited to see how it continues to support the team.

The Hippotherapy Assistant Booklet is currently being updated, and new copies will be available very soon. If you’re a Hippotherapy Assistant or a centre that provides Hippotherapy and you would like a copy or several copies, please send your order to hills@horsepower.org.au —we’d love to get one in your hands! Please note, there is a small $10 fee per copy to help cover the costs of printing.