Horse therapy program offers hope
Walk On Equine Assisted Activities, based in Barrington, recently hosted an open house to showcase the benefits of therapeutic riding sessions.
Based at Walk On Farm, 26665 W. Cuba Road, the agency not for profit and dedicated to clients with special needs.
The alternative form of therapy allows the horse to move the rider's body in a manner that simulates the human walk. Benefits range from balance to self-esteem to increased strength.
The program serves 45 people and has 35 volunteers assisting with the therapy.
The program is led by Mary Illing, an occupational therapist and certified Master Level Instructor with the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association.
The disabilities that can be served by therapeutic horse riding include autism, cerebral palsy, sensory integration disorder, attention deficit disorder, learning disabilities and delays, and head trauma.
Illing has explained that the therapy can help with improving posture, head control, coordination, vestibular activation, balance and strength.
The therapy is offered in three sessions throughout the year. For more information, visit www.walkonfarm.org.