PROGRAMS FOR

Individuals

Adaptive Riding

Adaptive Riding occurs when recreational horseback riding lessons are adapted to individuals with disabilities and special needs.

  • Certified therapeutic horseback riding instructors lead Adaptive Riding sessions in private or group lessons

  • Activities are designed to meet each participant’s needs and may focus on fine/gross motor skills development, balance, strength, or coordination

  • Additional benefits include improved social skills, independence, and self-confidence

Adaptive Horsemanship

Adaptive Horsemanship is an unmounted experience for individuals who may be physically limited for riding, don't enjoy riding, or are afraid of riding.

  • Following a participant’s evaluation, Adaptive Horsemanship may be the best option. Adaptive Horsemanship is just as powerful as Adaptive Riding. It builds confidence and teaches leadership, teamwork, and life skills

  • Fine and gross motor skills develop from grooming, bathing, or leading the horse through obstacle courses

  • Our certified instructors will tailor the unmounted experience to match the participant’s needs

HorsePower Hours

We created HorsePower Hours to accommodate all ability levels in a group setting. This unmounted horsemanship program is an excellent alternative to riding or weekly lessons.

  • HorsePower Hours are one-time experiences that can be scheduled throughout the year

  • The program positions participants for a unique view of the horse

  • Participants serve as caregivers and grow in concentration, handling, and socialization with horses and humans

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

We welcome participants who are at least 4 years old. Our trained staff is equipped to serve a wide range of disabilities, including, but not limited to, the examples listed below.

  • ADD/ADHD

  • Anxiety/Depression

  • Multiple Sclerosis

  • Visual Impairment

  • Auditory Impairment

  • Down Syndrome

  • Emotional Disorders

  • Learning Disabilities

  • Autism Spectrum Disorders

  • Cerebral Palsy

  • Sensory Integration

  • Cognitive/Developmental Delay

  • Veterans

QUALIFICATIONS:

We require each participant to consult with their physician before moving forward with any program. PATH Intl. guidelines require each prospective applicant to present a complete medical history and a signed physician’s statement before participation. Once the paperwork is completed, prospective applicants (and their family members) will have an evaluation meeting with the Lead Instructor. The goal is to ensure the program will be a good fit. 

While we try our best to accommodate everyone, we may be unable to serve an individual due to weight limit restrictions, behavioral concerns, or medical concerns that make participation unsafe. Any concerns are addressed by our PATH Certified Instructors. They are trained in the precautions and contraindications for participation.

TWO SCHEDULES TO FIT DIFFERENT NEEDS

SEASONAL SEMESTERS

The seasonal program is for individuals who need more support from instructors and volunteers during lessons. Lessons are taught by a PATH Certified Instructor. The semesters will mirror the Henderson County Schools schedule. The two-semester program includes 10 weeks in the spring and fall.

YEAR-ROUND RIDING

The year-round program creates customized lessons for participants with needs who seek more time in the saddle and are more independent. Participants must have the ability to groom, tack, and mount independently. Participants must also have the potential to ride with a group with diverse abilities, as they may be grouped with students at our partner barns taught by a PATH Certified Instructor. Enrollment is based upon the recommendation of the Healing Reins PATH Certified Riding Instructor, and your instructors will let you know if you qualify. We are not offering financial aid for year-round riders at this time.

Is Healing Reins right for you?

If you are unsure if Healing Reins is right for you or your loved one, fill out the following form with any questions or concerns, and we will get back to you shortly!

BECOME A HEALING REINS PARTICIPANT

get started

Fill out the participant application and submit with all paperwork, including the physician form. The physician form will need to be downloaded, printed off, and provided to your primary physician to sign. Once received, our Lead Instructor will contact you to schedule a time for your evaluation.