Berkman Academy
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Berkman Academy
Why Our Approach Works for ADHD
1. Active and Engaging
Children with ADHD often find it difficult to sit still. In our sessions, they are moving, noticing, and doing — which keeps their brains switched on and their attention engaged.
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2. Real-World Feedback
Instead of just being told to “calm down,” kids get immediate, non-judgmental feedback through the environment and activities. They learn self-regulation by experiencing it in the moment.
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3. Executive Function Practice
Tasks like sequencing, planning, and follow-through happen naturally in session activities — not just on worksheets. Kids practice these skills in ways that feel fun and meaningful.
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4. Emotional Regulation in Action
Children learn to slow down, breathe, and soften their behaviour because it directly changes the outcome of the activity. These skills are embodied and remembered.
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5. Confidence and Self-Efficacy
When a child successfully completes an activity they thought was too hard, they walk away with confidence that carries into school and home.
Who we support
Our programs are suited to:
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Kids and teens with ADHD
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Children on the autism spectrum
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NDIS participants under Improved Daily Living
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Families seeking an approach that is practical, engaging, and evidence-informed
Sessions are tailored to the participant's needs, goals, interests, and pace.
What happens in a session?
Each session starts in our cosy, semi open counselling cabin. After a quick chat we introduce activities in nature, movement and hands on horse handling experiences.
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Participants might:
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Lead or observe the horses
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Groom, feed, or care for them
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Learn to notice body language – theirs and the horse's
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Walk, move, and connect with nature
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Take small steps toward confidence and independence
Some days we walk beside the horse. Other days, we just sit quietly and listen. It all counts.
About Berkman Academy
Berkman Academy is based in Bayswater North, Victoria.
All sessions are delivered by a qualified counsellor (Member of the Australian Counselling Association) with specialist training in equine-assisted therapy.
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We’ve support private clients, NDIS participants, veterans, schools, and community groups to reconnect with themselves and build the skills that matter.
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Take the next step
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Book an initial session to see if our approach feels right for your child
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It it's a good fit, we'll create a tailored plan to match your child’s needs and NDIS goals
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Sessions run weekly at our Bayswater Academy
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Contact us today and find out the next available session to support you or your child.
