Equine Therapy for Special Needs Children
About Us:
The Lord Sarfraz Foundation is able to offer Equine Therapy as part of its comprehensive balance of psychological, spiritual, and recreational treatment components at its Sunrise Equine Therapy Center. It is an excellent case example of a mental health treatment facility that utilizes a sophisticated Equine Therapy Program as an integral part of treatment with children. Horses play an important role at our treatment center.
The Equine Therapy Program provides children with a supportive, experiential pathway toward emotional, behavioral, and developmental growth through structured interactions with horses. The program currently serves 1300+ children aged 4–18 with diverse needs, including autism spectrum conditions, ADHD, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, learning disabilities, and emotional or anger-related challenges. By integrating therapeutic goals with equine-assisted activities, the program promotes regulation, confidence, communication, and overall psychological wellbeing.
We encourage students from autism centres and special needs schools located in Islamabad/Rawalpindi to bring students. Therapy includes instruction in horse care, grooming procedures, saddlery, and basic equitation.
Our Horses:
Our horses are rather special. Without them we couldn’t do what we do.
We have a settled herd of 5 horses, all of whom have been chosen for their unique and individual personalities. We have something for everyone, including those who may be initially nervous of horses. From our majestic mare Arya to little Jon Snow, who likes to know everybody and everything that’s going on. Our horses are curious, interested, sensitive and sociable and they receive continuous schooling to maintain and enhance their participation.
Our Team:
Each member of our qualified facilitator team has their own area of unique experience and skill set.
This gives us the depth and flexibility to match the best facilitator with an individual’s or group’s needs. Local riding instructors are trained and overseen by Ms. Laura Moir, a UK- based equine therapist, accredited by The British Horse Society.
What is Equine Therapy?
Equine therapy is a form of physical, occupational, or speech therapy that uses horses as a means of treatment. It can be beneficial for special needs children in a number of ways:
1. Improved physical functioning: Riding can help children with physical disabilities improve their balance, coordination, and muscle strength.
2. Enhanced cognitive abilities: Equine therapy can help children with cognitive impairments develop their problem-solving skills and attention to tasks.
3. Increased social interaction: Children with special needs may have difficulty interacting with their peers. Equine therapy can provide a non-threatening environment where they can learn to communicate and socialize with others.
4. Improved self-esteem: Children who participate in equine therapy may feel a sense of accomplishment and pride in their progress, which can boost their self-esteem.
5. Reduced stress and anxiety: The movement of the horse during therapy sessions can have a calming effect on children, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
6. Fun and enjoyment: Many children find horseback riding and other activities involving horses to be enjoyable, which can make therapy sessions more motivating and engaging.
Children are paired with appropriate horses based on an assessment of their riding experiences and needs, and participate in two 20-minute equine therapy sessions per week, including an arena session. Each ride is supervised by an instructor and two side walkers. Children wear safety equipment such as riding helmets and other appropriate attire and may begin equine therapy only when a physician determines their medical readiness to do so.
Where we are now
Islamabad Center: The first equine therapy center, established in Islamabad in 2016, has made a significant impact by benefiting over 1000 children with additional needs. Through engaging with horses, these children have developed essential skills and improved their overall well-being in a supportive environment.
Karachi Center: In 2023, a second center was launched in Karachi in collaboration with the Army Karachi Garrison Riding Club. This partnership has allowed the program to expand its reach, benefiting over 300+ children with additional needs in Karachi.
