Occupational Therapy at Alkira Adina Equestrian

Equine-Assisted Support for Individuals and Families

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At Alkira Adina Equestrian, Occupational Therapy takes place outdoors, in a natural setting where people work alongside horses while developing everyday skills that support independence, confidence, and wellbeing.

Sessions are led by Charlotte Nash, a qualified Occupational Therapist with over 15 years of experience. Charlotte combines clinical expertise with the unique learning opportunities horses provide, offering sessions that are practical, engaging, and tailored to each participant’s goals.

Many participants and families notice benefits such as:

• Increased confidence and self-belief

• Improved communication and social skills

• Greater body awareness and coordination

• Support with routines, regulation, and daily tasks

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What Is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational Therapy supports people to build the skills needed for everyday life. This may include:

• Managing routines and transitions

• Using hands effectively for tasks such as writing, eating, or self-care

• Communicating needs and interacting with others

• Regulating emotions, attention, and energy levels

Charlotte uses movement, nature, and purposeful activity to make learning these skills meaningful and engaging. Working outdoors and alongside horses often allows participants to feel more at ease than in a traditional clinic environment.

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Why Work With Horses?

Horses are highly responsive to body language, energy, and emotion. This makes them powerful partners in Occupational Therapy.

Working with horses can support participants to:

• Practise clear, confident communication

• Build trust and emotional awareness

• Develop motor skills through grooming, leading, and obstacle tasks

• Strengthen planning, focus, and self-regulation

• Experience calm, mindful connection in a natural setting

All Occupational Therapy sessions are ground-based. There is no riding involved. The focus is on relationship, body awareness, and meaningful interaction. In some cases, sessions may progress to mounted activities if this aligns with the participant’s goals and is clinically appropriate.

Types of Support Available

Charlotte offers:

• Equine-Facilitated Occupational Therapy (EFOT)

• NDIS assessments and written reports

• 1:1 in-person therapy sessions

• Parent, carer, and support-worker guidance

• Support with routines and transitions, such as morning routines, toileting, or coping with change

 

Session Structure and Fees

Initial Consultation

The initial consultation is conducted in person and runs for 70 minutes (50 mins face to face).
This session includes:

• Getting to know the participant and their goals

• Observations through interaction with the horse and environment

• Initial planning and recommendations

Cost: $226.32

All questions, planning, and suitability discussions are covered during booked sessions. We do not offer informal phone or email consultations.

Ongoing Sessions

• 50 minutes working with the horse

• 20 minutes non face-to-face support (planning, documentation, communication)

Sessions are typically offered fortnightly or monthly, depending on availability and individual needs.

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Reports and Assessments

Written reports may be requested to support NDIS planning, reviews, or goal documentation.

• Brief progress summary $400

• Standard Occupational Therapy Report: $600

• Extensive report - cost available upon request

Reports are prepared based on clinical observations, session data, and relevant supporting documents. This fee covers assessment, report writing time, professional oversight, and administrative requirements.

Please note that reports are completed outside of session time and are billed separately from therapy sessions.

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NDIS and Funding

Occupational Therapy sessions may be funded through the NDIS if the participant’s plan includes:

• Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living

• Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life (where applicable)

For children under 9, sessions may fall under Early Childhood Supports.

Invoices are provided to support self-managed and plan-managed claims. Some families may also be eligible for Medicare rebates or GP Team Care Arrangements, depending on circumstances.

Getting Started

Before commencing, participants complete a short intake form to help us understand needs and goals. This includes information about:

• Diagnoses or areas of concern

• Strengths and challenges related to movement, regulation, communication, or daily tasks

• Other therapists or supports involved

• Previous experience with horses

No referral is required.

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What to Expect in Your First Session

Charlotte takes a gentle, participant-led approach. The initial session may include:

• Meeting the horse and learning safety guidelines

• Grooming and leading activities

• Observation of movement, communication, and responses

• A brief discussion at the end to share observations and outline next steps

The aim is for participants to feel safe, supported, and comfortable from the beginning.

 

About Charlotte

Charlotte Nash
Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) – University of Sydney

Charlotte is a warm, experienced Occupational Therapist who specialises in:

• Sensory processing

• Emotional regulation

• Fine and gross motor coordination

• Confidence, independence, and self-help skills

She has worked across hospital, community, and family settings, and now focuses exclusively on outdoor, horse-based Occupational Therapy rather than clinic-based practice.

Charlotte does not currently offer Functional Capacity Assessments, as her focus is on therapeutic support through movement, connection, and meaningful activity.

 

 

Ready to Begin?

Choosing the right support matters. Our initial in-person consultation is designed to explore goals, answer questions, and ensure this service is the right fit for the participant.

📧 Email: hello@alkiraadinaequestrian.com.au

Consultations are offered through scheduled sessions rather than informal phone or email discussions.