Hendrick Center for Rehabilitation (HERO Program)
Abilene, Texas
Hendrick Center for Rehabilitation is the rehabilitation department of Hendrick Health in Abilene, Texas. Its HERO Program (Hendrick Equine Rehabilitation Opportunities) offers hippotherapy, which uses the movement of the horse as a treatment tool. Hendrick says the program serves clients with cognitive, physical and emotional disabilities, and that it is not only for children.
- Hippotherapy (HERO Program)
- Pediatric physical therapy
- Pediatric occupational therapy
- Pediatric speech therapy
- Outpatient rehabilitation
- Children with disabilities
- Adults who may benefit from hippotherapy
- People with physical disabilities
- People with cognitive disabilities
- People with emotional disabilities
More about this center
About the Program
According to Hendrick Health, HERO sessions are led by specially trained therapists and work on balance, strength, endurance and coordination. Hendrick's pediatric rehabilitation team lists physical, occupational and speech therapy, and its pediatric page names HERO hippotherapy among its offerings.
HERO is a hospital-based therapy program, not a recreational riding school. Because it sits inside a medical system, insurance and referral rules may apply. Call to ask about equine therapy costs and coverage.
History
A 2007 Abilene Christian University Optimist article described the program as 15 years old at the time, which places its start around 1992. That article reported sessions held at Griffin Arena at the Taylor County Expo Center, with about 75 clients a year and 11 horses, and quoted a Hendrick physical therapist who worked with riders. Those figures are from 2007 and may have changed. A 2021 local radio feature interviewed Hendrick's pediatric coordinator for the program.
Location
Hendrick Center for Rehabilitation is at 1934 Hickory St., Abilene, TX 79601. Hendrick's Pediatric Therapy Gym sits directly behind it, between Hickory Street and Simmons Street. Hendrick's program page does not list where riding sessions currently take place, so confirm the arena location when you call.
From public records, not yet reviewed by the center · Last updated Oct 2026 Suggest an edit
Common Questions
Answered from the center’s own website and public records.
How do I get started with HERO hippotherapy?
Hendrick Health says to ask your child's provider for a referral to its pediatric therapy specialists. You can also call Hendrick Center for Rehabilitation at 325-670-6000.
Is the HERO Program only for children?
No. Hendrick says the program is not just for children and can also benefit adults.
How much does it cost?
Call 325-670-6000 to ask about cost and insurance coverage.
Location
Abilene, Texas 79601
Questions to Ask When You Call
The center is the best source for these answers.
- Are you running now, and taking new riders?Start here. We couldn’t confirm a current schedule.
- Which ages and needs do you work with?Ask about experience with your rider’s specific condition.
- Is a licensed PT, OT or speech therapist involved?Therapist-led hippotherapy is usually the only kind insurance may cover.
- What does a session cost, and are there scholarships?Many nonprofit programs offer sliding scales or sponsored spots.
- Do you have a mounting ramp or lift?Important for riders who use a wheelchair or need help mounting.