Can I Do Equine Therapy on the NDIS? -

Quick answer: Yes, equine therapy can be funded through the NDIS — but it must connect directly to a goal in your plan. It typically falls under Therapeutic Supports or Capacity Building funding. You’ll need a qualified therapist who documents outcomes, and plan goals around emotional regulation, confidence, or community participation.

If you’ve ever wondered whether equine therapy can be part of your NDIS plan, the short answer is yes — it can. But like most things with the NDIS, it depends on a few factors.

Whether you’re new to equine therapy or just looking to understand how it sits within your plan, this guide covers the full picture. Heartfelt Support offers both therapeutic and non-therapeutic horse programs for NDIS participants in Adelaide.

What is equine therapy?

Equine therapy involves structured interaction with horses to support emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing. It can help with confidence building, anxiety management, and sensory regulation, among other outcomes.

It’s not horse riding lessons, and it’s not just patting ponies. It’s something in between — and in the right setting, with the right practitioner, it can be genuinely life-changing. For more on what it actually involves, read Is Horse Riding Part of Equine Therapy?

Can you access equine therapy through the NDIS?

Yes — but the support must relate directly to a goal in your NDIS plan. That’s the golden rule. If your plan includes goals around emotional regulation, community participation, building confidence, or improving physical health, equine therapy may be a valid support.

It generally falls under “therapeutic supports” or “capacity building” funding. You’ll typically need:

A therapist or practitioner who can provide reports and document outcomes
A planner, LAC, or support coordinator who understands the value of outdoor and animal-assisted therapies

We’ve supported many participants to include equine therapy in their plans. If you’re not sure how to approach this conversation with your support team, we can help.

What are the benefits?

Horses are sensitive, non-judgmental animals. They reflect human emotions and provide immediate, honest feedback — which is a powerful element in therapy. Equine therapy isn’t for everyone, but when it works, it really works.

Some of the benefits include better emotional regulation and reduced anxiety, improved physical coordination and core strength, increased self-esteem and confidence, and greater social connection. For more on the physical side, read How Horses Make Us Feel Good Physically.

Equine therapy that suits you

Not all equine therapy looks the same. Some people prefer group sessions; others prefer quiet one-on-one time. Some work with full-sized horses; others get great results from miniature horses. Options include:

Traditional sessions with grooming, groundwork, and gentle exercises
Sessions with miniature horses, well-suited to indoor or lower-mobility environments
Outdoor therapy programs, ideal for sensory regulation and getting out in nature

What about the weather?

Equine therapy is naturally outdoors-focused — and yes, Adelaide has a full seasonal menu. But we don’t let weather get in the way of good outcomes. Read more: Equine Therapy: What to Do About Winter and Safe and Enjoyable Outdoor Therapies in Summer.

Is it just for kids?

Not at all. Equine therapy is effective for adults and older people, particularly for reducing isolation, building confidence, and staying active in a gentle and engaging way. Read more: Equine Therapy for Ageing Gracefully.

Looking for a non-therapy horse experience?

Not everyone wants or needs formal therapy sessions — and that’s completely fine. At Heartfelt Support, we also offer Horse-Centred Wellbeing: relaxed, social sessions focused on calm connection and positive experiences with horses. These sessions are valuable for building confidence, reducing isolation, or simply enjoying time outdoors in good company.

How much does it cost?

Like other NDIS supports, equine therapy is priced per hour or session depending on what’s involved. It can be part of your NDIS plan when aligned with your goals and documented appropriately. For a full breakdown, see How Much Does Equine Therapy in Adelaide Cost?

Not sure if it’s the right fit?

Equine therapy is powerful, but it’s not the only option. You might also consider art therapy, music therapy, or a combination of approaches. Read Which One: Art, Equine, or Music Therapies? to help weigh the options.

At Heartfelt Support, our programs are gentle, trauma-informed, and designed to be engaging. Whether you want to work with a miniature horse, build confidence, or enjoy a peaceful moment outdoors, we can tailor sessions to suit you. Explore our equine therapy approach here.