Introduction: Equine-assisted therapy is an increasingly valued and sought after type of therapy both abroad and in Slovenia. It positively affects motor, process and social-interaction skills, increases self-esteem, enhances independence and efficiency in daily activities, what consequently improves the quality of life. This therapy is intended for people of different ages with various physical or mental disorders, particulary those with sensory-motor problems. It is conducted by occupational therapists who have additional knowledge of equestrianism. Purpose: We investigated the experiences of Slovenian occupational therapists with incorporating equine-assisted therapy in occupational therapy treatment. We asked ourselves two research questions: why do occupational therapists in Slovenia decide to use equine-assisted therapy, which population do they include and what positive effects do they recognize. Methods: We conducted qualitative research including four semi-structured interviews with occupational therapists in Slovenia, who include equine-assisted therapy in their treatments. We recorded the interviews, transcribed and qualitatively analyzed them. Results: We formed four main themes: differences between terms and equine-assiste therapy treatment in occupational therapy and physiotherapy, occupational therapist's first experiences with equine-assisted therapy, inclusion of persons in equine-assisted therapies, and equine-assisted therapy in occupational therapy treatment. The participants explained the differences between the terms hippotherapy and equine-assisted therapy. In equine-assisted therapies they include people with mental health disorders, sensory-motor problems, behavioral problems, and lack of motivation. Treatments that include equine-assisted therapy bring many improvements in motivation, communication, greater independence and improve the performance of daily activities. Discussion and conclusion: Equine-assisted therapy is an increasingly sought after form of treatment, as it offers a wide range of activities, is more interesting for users and leads to significant improvements. In Slovenia, it would be necessary to carry out additional research in this area, develop professional education and, consequently, make equine-assisted therapies available to as many users as possible.
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