We have at various times used both horseback PT and therapeutic riding lessons. Both have been very effective. Given the hype out there, I feel I have to say that they do not directly address the core social deficits of autism. But they are *tremendous* for fitness, balance, coordination. We also saw a real sense of adventure and self-confidence emerge. It is expensive, and not covered by our insurance, but it remains something I'm willing to shell out for.
I'd say you should think about your goals for your child, and then find the right program. Horseback PT feels more like therapy exercises, excellent for targeting specific skills. Riding lessons, by contrast, feel more like a fun project, learning toward mastery, that just happens to have a lot of benefits.
DeeDee
