Equine-Assisted Therapy Internship Opportunity in Argentina 2027 for Young People

The equine therapy internship in Argentina gives participants aged 16 and older practical experience supporting children and adults during therapy sessions in Cordoba. Interns also learn about horse care and the theory behind equine therapy. The project is available year-round, with flexible start and end dates and a minimum stay of two weeks.

Intermediate Spanish is required to communicate with the supervisor and patients. For related placements, browse internship opportunities or explore opportunities with no deadline.

About the Equine Therapy Internship

The placement takes place at an equine therapy centre in Cordoba, where participants work under the supervision of the centre’s owner. Available durations range from two to 52 weeks. The project operates throughout the year, although activity at the centre slows from late December to late February.

A typical schedule runs Monday to Friday, from 3 pm to 7 pm. Classes usually begin at 4 pm and last about 30 minutes. Evenings and weekends are free for participants to relax or travel. The bus journey from the city centre to the stables takes around 40 minutes. Staff accompany interns on the first day to show them the route.

Interns assist children and adults during equine therapy sessions and help patients get dressed in riding equipment, including helmets and riding vests. Depending on the patient’s physical ability, an intern may ride with them or walk alongside and lead the horse. Helping patients stay focused can involve conversation, singing, obstacle courses or musical instruments. Interns begin actively assisting in sessions only after the first three or four days, once the supervisor considers them ready.

Daily horse care is another part of the placement. Participants help feed and groom the horses, clean their coats and hooves, muck out stalls and maintain the outside area where the horses stand. Before classes, they help prepare the horses, including taking them on a ten-minute warm-up ride and saddling them for the arena.

The internship also introduces participants to the theory and practice of equine therapy. They may attend classes about its principles and how to apply them when working with patients. The centre owner explains how to work with the horses in this setting and keep sessions playful for children while supporting their therapy goals. The centre works with patients with conditions including autism, Down’s Syndrome and physical mobility issues.

Participants stay with a local host family in Argentina. The placement includes meals and fresh drinking water, and daily transport to and from the placement is included. Interns can practise Spanish and experience local life in Cordoba. Regular social events are organised for volunteers and interns.

Who Should Apply

This placement suits people who enjoy horses and want to help others, especially those interested in working with children or considering a career related to psychology or occupational therapy. Horse-riding experience is preferred because it allows for a more active role during therapy sessions. Participants who cannot ride still take part, but their role during classes is less active.

Key Highlights

• Location: Cordoba, Argentina.
• Minimum age: 16.
• Duration: two weeks or longer, with options listed up to 52 weeks.
• Schedule: Monday to Friday, 3 pm to 7 pm.
• Language requirement: intermediate Spanish.
• Listed price: £1,825 for two weeks, plus £280 for each extra week.