ACPEA 2026 Online Conference

Words of Wisdom and True Stories

On this page you can find the resources associated with our brilliant conference held on the 11th October 2026.

1. Hippotherapy Case Study: A Child with Aicardi-Goutières Syndrome

Dr Valerie Cooper

A detailed case study following a child with Aicardi-Goutières Syndrome through several years of hippotherapy. Dr Valerie Cooper explores the clinical reasoning behind treatment choices, adaptations to positioning and support, and the child's progress in postural control, balance and function. The presentation also reflects on service evaluation, parent feedback and the need for clearer referral criteria and further research into hippotherapy outcomes.

2. The Wind Tamer: A Parent's Perspective

Emma Hunter — Parent Interview

An occupational therapy case study exploring how hippotherapy supports a young child with Atypical Vici Syndrome through movement, postural control, sensory awareness, communication and play. Featuring a parent interview, the presentation shares therapeutic goals and illustrates how sessions are tailored to the child’s individual needs and development.

The Transformative Impact of Hippotherapy

Jo Parsons

A review of a two-year hippotherapy service delivered by Heel and Toe, exploring outcomes for 77 children and the wider benefits reported by parents. The presentation highlights improvements in postural control, balance, strength, sensory regulation, communication, confidence and emotional wellbeing, demonstrating the potential for hippotherapy to support participation and quality of life for children and their families.

Children at Risk

Dr Anita Shkedi

Dr Anita Shkedi explores how childhood adversity and trauma can affect brain development, behaviour, learning and relationships. The presentation considers how equine-assisted therapy may support traumatised children, with practical insights into creating safety, building trust and supporting emotional regulation.

What’s Included List

We follow a disciplined framework that translates objectives into measurable outcomes. Our team applies a systematic series of phases, ensuring each engagement advances logically from initial insight to final evaluation while maintaining full transparency.

  • We initiate each engagement with a focused discovery phase.

  • Collected data is subjected to rigorous quantitative and qualitative analysis.

  • Insights inform a tailored strategy that addresses defined goals.