Hardin-Simmons University Launches Phase One of Equine-Assisted Services

Hardin-Simmons University has launched phase one of its Equine Assisted Services, incorporating hippotherapy, to expand therapeutic services for adults and children in the Big Country while providing experiential learning through community service.

Hippotherapy integrates the movement of horses into physical and speech therapy sessions, enhancing HSU’s mission of faith, service, and academic excellence.

The program is led by Dr. Wendy Anemaet, professor of physical therapy, and builds on the university’s longstanding commitment to equine-assisted services and hands-on learning.

“Hippotherapy is the use of the horse in physical, occupational, and speech therapy to accomplish goals such as improving gait, building strength, improving balance, reducing spasticity, and enhancing trunk control,” Anemaet said. “It’s a powerful tool for patients with a wide range of diagnoses — including but not limited to cerebral palsy, stroke, brain injury, Parkinson’s, and speech disorders. This initiative reflects what makes Hardin-Simmons so unique: academic excellence with a servant’s heart.”

Therapeutic sessions, which officially launched this spring, are led by HSU-affiliated licensed therapists trained in hippotherapy principles, with HSU students observing and assisting under direct supervision.

Dr. Allison Robinson, assistant professor in the Department of Physical Therapy with a specialty in neuro, and Lorenzo Martinez, SLP ’16 and assistant professor of communication sciences and disorders, are currently pursuing American Hippotherapy Certification — expanding the number of licensed faculty and incorporating hippotherapy into the university’s speech-language pathology offerings.

“At HSU, we’re committed to serving the Big Country’s needs with excellence, humility, and heart,” said Hardin-Simmons University President Eric Bruntmyer. “Our students are learning to meet people’s needs with both clinical skill and Christ-like compassion. We’re not just cowboys by word — we’re cowboys by deed, carrying forward the deep Western heritage of our university.”

HSU hopes to build on these services by exploring additional therapy disciplines and strengthening its equine-related experiential learning.

While services are currently free, donations are encouraged to help the university maintain its facilities and care for its horses. To learn more about volunteering with HSU’s equine-assisted therapy or to access services, visit hsutx.edu.