Thank you, Reese: Honoring a very special pony.
At the end of this program year, we have made the decision to retire our beloved pony, Reese from her full-time job. She will be moving on to her new home where she will enjoy cuddles, hugs, and much earned down time with her new horse friend, Baby.
Reese has given so much to Hilltop Horizons since coming the the program in 2022. Let’s celebrate her with a look back at all she has done.
Reese has helped Adaptive Riding participants learn and grow 503 times since coming to our program. She has partnered with participants to provide therapy 298 times between our Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy programs.
Known to most as our resident dinosaur, Reese was always ready for Equine Assisted Learning sessions. Those days meant her favorite things: a long, relaxing groom and quality time with some truly wonderful participants.
Though we will miss her dearly, all of us at Hilltop Horizons are thankful for the loving family who has welcomed Reese into her new home.
Thank you for the memories, Reese!
A Barn That Feels Like Home: Why Access Matters for All Abilities
Abigail is an adaptive riding client who came to Hilltop Horizons with one goal: she wanted to ride, not just with help, but on her own.
Week by week, with the support of her instructors, volunteers, and her equine partners, Abigail has built strength, confidence, and skill. Every small victory was celebrated — a smoother mount, a steadier seat, a stronger grip on the reins.
Now, Abigail rides with confidence and continues to gain independence each week.
She says…
“I cannot thank Hilltop Horizons enough for the joy that they have been able to share with me through adaptive riding. Before starting at Hilltop Horizons, I was skeptical of whether riding would be possible. Since being diagnosed with a spinal cord injury from Multiple Sclerosis in 2020, I had been longing for a way to reconnect with friends, family, and the outdoors. Previously, I was an avid hiker among many other things, but MS changed that for me. A close friend suggested I look into horseback riding. I reached out to Hilltop Horizons at the beginning of the year, and from day one, we hit the ground running. Through Hilltop Horizons, I have been able to do what I thought was impossible. They have given me every tool available and the support to be able to say I can ride independently despite a spinal cord injury. I think more people need to be able to have access to organizations like this. Especially those who go through unexpected, life-changing events. Whether you're an adult, a child, an elder, a veteran, or someone newly diagnosed with a disability, this barn is your home. Illness and challenges can affect all of us in life at any time. Being able to have passionate and caring people to help you through finding your passion again means the world to those of us who are finding our way again.”
Abigail’s journey reminds us of the heart of Hilltop Horizons:
Everyone is meant to thrive — and horses help guide the way.
YOU can support participants like Abigail by supporting Hilltop Horizons’ mission
A Sweet Success: Celebrating Community and Connection at This Year’s Horse Show
This fall, our annual Horse Show brought together participants, families, volunteers, and supporters for a day filled with joy, connection, and celebration. With a playful Candyland theme, the event was a colorful reminder of how powerful community can be when people come together for a purpose.
Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, donors, and attendees, we raised over $20,000 to support life-changing equine-assisted services in our community. These funds go directly toward helping participants grow in confidence, connection, and skill through the programs offered at Hilltop Horizons.
Every moment of support - from cheering on our participants to volunteering behind the scenes - made a difference. Together, we’re helping create opportunities for growth and empowerment that extend far beyond the arena.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s event possible. Your belief in our mission allows Hilltop Horizons to continue flourishing and offering meaningful experiences that strengthen both individuals and our broader community.
An extra special thank you to this year’s Horse Show Sponsors:
As we look ahead, we carry forward the energy, kindness, and collaboration that made this year’s show so special. Thank you for being part of the journey and for helping keep our mission - and our participants - moving forward
Thankful for your support. Past, Present, and Future...
We are so thankful for the support of our community that has allowed us to continue making a difference through equine assisted services. Learn how you can support us in future endeavors!
Thankful for your support.
Past, Present, and Future…
We are so thankful for the support of our community that has allowed us to continue making a difference through equine assisted services.
We could not make this impact without the generous support of our community.
Help us continue growing our impact by supporting us this Giving Tuesday, December 3rd!
Ways to Give…
Support our Expansion Campaign
A New Horizon for Hilltop
We have been blessed to continue growing our mission each year since our founding in 2017, and we are ready to take our mission to the next level by acquiring an equestrian facility with year-round programming capabilities.
Join our Monthly Giving Circle
Become a part of our Hilltop Horizons Giving Circle and give meaningful monthly donations that make a difference in the daily operations at Hilltop Horizons.
Give a Gift
Visit our Amazon Wish List and help supply needed items for our horses and program!
Get your 2025 Calendar
Experience the joy of Hilltop Horizons in your home all year long! All proceeds benefit Hilltop Horizons' mission.
Volunteer
Volunteers are the backbone of Hilltop Horizons' program, and we need YOU to make a difference.
Thank You for a Great 2021!
Thanks to you, Hilltop Horizons made 2021 a year to remember. We were able to experience several firsts, and continue much loved traditions.
Thank You and Happy New Year!
Thanks to you, Hilltop Horizons made 2021 a year to remember. We were able to experience several firsts, and continue much loved traditions. None of this would have been possible without our devoted volunteers, wonderful riders, and their supportive families.
Hilltop Horizons has achieved and surpassed goals, allowing our community to grow, excel, and thrive. We are so very grateful for each person in our community for helping to make this past year such a success
Thank You!
Hilltop Horizons 2021 Recap
Looking Forward into 2022
Stay up to date with our upcoming events!
We are excited to keep making an impact in 2022!
We will be in touch with current participants and those hoping to join our program in the coming month.
Continue Supporting our Mission
Help us continue to provide life-changing programs by supporting us in one of the following ways:
Become a Volunteer!
Volunteers are the backbone of Hilltop Horizons' program and we thank you for your interest!
Upcoming New Volunteer Orientation:
Saturday, April 23rd at 1:00pm
Thank you for a great year! Let's make 2022 another impactful year!
Copper's Impact
This spring we decided that it was time for one of our special therapy horses, Copper, to move from a full time therapy horse job to a part time family trail horse job.
This spring we decided that it was time for one of our special therapy horses, Copper, to move from a full time therapy horse job to a part time family trail horse job. She will now get to spend her days grazing with her pasture mate, Cannon, and trail riding with her new family. We are so thankful for Copper’s contributions to our program, so we wanted to take a few minutes to celebrate the joys and successes she was able to spread while she was with our program.
Over the two years that Copper worked with us, she was the go-to horse for over 10 of our weekly participants and a great partner for our unmounted groups.
She loved to be groomed and especially loved her head scratches.
On the weekends you might find her in a gaming class or on the trails.
We are so glad to see our special girl, Copper, move on to a loving family and settle into her new home with Cannon and her new friend, Spartan!
All of us at Hilltop Horizons will surely miss you, Copper! Thank you for all of the memories.
A New Horizon for the Hilltop: Raising Funds for an Indoor Facility
Hilltop Horizons has big plans for our future home, and we need your help to help us reach this goal. Here are some ways that an indoor facility would make a difference in our community.
An Indoor facility… endless possibilities
In September we launched our Expansion Campaign to begin the pursuit of an indoor facility for Hilltop Horizons. We are so grateful for all of the support, thus far! Hilltop Horizons has big plans for our future home, and we need your help to help us reach this goal.
Here are some ways that an indoor facility would make a difference in our community:
Year-round programming - We would be able to DOUBLE service hours for our current participants
Increased capacity for participants - We would be able to QUADRUPLE the number of participants we serve in our adaptive riding program within the first six months
Expanded services - We would be able to add additional services to our program including occupational and physical therapies
There are endless possibilities for growth and impact with an indoor facility. Help us reach our goal of raising $60,000. You can learn more about ways to contribute at the link below:
*header image by Joy of the Moment Photography
Thank you! 150 Envelope Campaign Recap
Our first month long campaign as a 501(c)3 nonprofit resulted in over $2,000 funds raised and many heartfelt messages that we will treasure always.
Thank yoU!
Our first month long campaign as a 501(c)3 nonprofit resulted in over $2,000 funds raised and many heartfelt messages that we will treasure always. We are so thankful for each and every member of our community who contributed and shared our cause with others. To those who left a message on their envelope and those who donated anonymously, we are SO GRATEFUL!
Below is a collection of the sponsored envelopes:
#1: Georgette and Jessica Osman
“Thank you for providing this service for my daughter!”
#2: Madison Scarsella
“Maddy misses you all”
#3: Anonymous
#4: Angee Lash
“For the four awesome years that I’ve been in love with horses”
#6: George Unger
“For Ellen’s Birthday (12/6)”
#7: Daniel Priest: In Memory of Annie
“Good luck!”
#8: George Unger
“For my birthday (1/8)”
#10: Chuck and Anita Halstead
“Our Family’s Birthdays!”
#11: Amanda
“So happy you are able to run this center 😃”
#13: Leslie Buchanan
“Happy 13th Birthday Kaylyn!! I am so proud of you and happy to see you involved in such an amazing organization!”
#14: Gretchen Veri
“For the always smiling Keira! Happy Belated Birthday!”
Chuck and Anita Halstead
“Our Family’s Birthdays!”
#15: “Happy Birthday Ainsley!”
#17: Karin & Angee
“The year that Hilltop Horizons began to make a difference in the lives of others, including ours. Angee and I are so blessed to be a part of this wonderful organization and to get to work with some awesome individuals.”
#18: Annie Gilbreath Devine
“The year Leo and I became a part of Hilltop Horizons. We started out helping so that Leo, a service-dog-in-training would become desensitized to the horses and now 2 years later Leo runs alongside his boy on his horse while I continue to help alongside all the wonderful riders here at Hilltop Horizons. Truly a blessing!”
#19: Teyana Kent
“The year that my adventure with Hilltop Horizons started. I can’t wait for all the years to come being involved with this great place!”
#20: Luke Megaludis
“I would love to attend but with this coronavirus going on I really miss my horse. He is a good fella, my Macky Boy”
#21: Teva Farley
“For my new daughter Teyana!! She loves her horses and working at this great establishment!”
#22: For Copper from Kyra & Leigh Anne
“For our favorite horse, Copper. We miss you! We hope to see you soon.”
#23: Garima Agarwal
“Happy Birthday Ainsley!!!! Lucky to have such a hardworking, smart and passionate friend like you! Hope this year is the best yet :))”
#24: Margaret Wilson
“Continue your good works”
#25: Elena
“Thank you for all that you do.”
#28: George Unger
“For Lucy’s birthday (1/28)”
#29: Chuck and Anita Halstead
“Our Family’s Birthdays!”
#30: Leslie Buchanan
“No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle. -Winston Churchill”
#31: Chuck and Anita Halstead
“Our Family’s Birthdays!”
#33: Donald Kelly
#40: Ainsley Berringer
“For the 40 awesome volunteers in 2019!”
#48: Kodic Family
“Angelina loves riding. She hopes to be back in the saddle soon.”
#49: Ashley D’Andrea
“This is for my wonderful horse, Dominique.”
#50: Deb Unger
“Hope!”
#59: Patricia Slade
“In honor of Keira”
#60: Yvonne Megaludis
“Walk on, Whoa, Look between your horse's ears. Great Job!!!”
#62: Marisa Kebekus
“Looking forward to volunteering again this year with a great program that helps so many. I am thankful for all of the wonderful and kind people (and horses) I met along the way.”
#76: In Memory of my mom, Georgia Jean Rush
“My mom was 76. Her birthday falls on Mother’s Day this year. She worked as a receptionist at a children’s clinic for speech and OT. I’m sure she would love your program!”
#87: Jesse Farley
#89: Anonymous
#100: Anonymous
#110: Auberly Berringer
“For our fearless leader, Ainsley, who always dedicates 110% to the program, riders, and volunteers.”
#148: Anonymous
#149: Lori Dillon
“This is such a wonderful program. Thank you Ainsley!!”
#150: Anonymous
Thank you all for supporting our mission!
Are you interested in supporting Hilltop Horizons in other ways?
What to Expect at Your New Rider Evaluation
We love meeting new potential participants! We also know that this can be a big step for many families to make into the world of therapeutic horsemanship, so having an idea of what to expect may help.
We love meeting new potential participants! We also know that this can be a big step for many families to make into the world of therapeutic horsemanship, so having an idea of what to expect may help.
What will we be doing during my evaluation?
Your evaluation will consist of four main components:
Meet and greet with staff - Have a chat with our staff so they can learn about your needs, goals, interests, hobbies, and any special precautions we may need to know about for our programs.
Practice your skills with our mock horse - Practice mounting our practice barrel, and participate in other basic activities, so we can get an idea of the supports we need to provide during programming.
Barn Tour - Check out the space where you will be participating in our programs!
Horse Interaction - Meet one of our therapy horses and have the opportunity to groom and spend time getting comfortable in the equine environment.
Do I need to bring or wear anything specific?
Bring any paperwork that is still outstanding, and wear your close toed shoes!
How long should I expect to spend at my evaluation?
Evaluations usually take 30-45 minutes. Short and sweet!
Want to sign up for your free evaluation?
One FREE Lesson for New Therapeutic Riding Participants
Sign up for new rider evaluations by March 31st and your first lesson is on us!
One FREE Lesson for New Therapeutic Riding Participants
Here’s How to Do it:
Fill out the form on our Therapeutic Riding Page with date/time options that work for you*
Receive an email confirmation of your evaluation slot along with more information about participant application
Sign up for our 8-week Spring Riding Session (upon the time of evaluation) and get your first lesson FREE**
*Must complete step one by March 31st to qualify for free lesson
Learn more about our lessons:
Therapeutic Riding: An Adaptive Sport with Many Benefits
There are sometimes misconceptions about what therapeutic riding is. Is it therapy? Is it a pony ride? The best way to help clear up any misunderstanding is to tell you what therapeutic riding IS.
There are sometimes misconceptions about what therapeutic riding is. Is it therapy? Is it a pony ride? The best way to help clear up any misunderstanding is to tell you what therapeutic riding IS.
Therapeutic riding teaches horsemanship skills…
Therapeutic riding, also known as adaptive riding, is an adaptive recreational activity designed for many ages and abilities. The main goal of these lessons is to teach horsemanship skills. Just like in adaptive skiing, the participant is learning how to ski in a way that suits their needs and abilities, therapeutic riding teaches horseback riding and related horsemanship skills.
Therapeutic riding instructors are NOT therapists…
Therapeutic riding instructors are trained and certified in the adaptive sport of therapeutic riding. While they are knowledgeable about different conditions and how horseback riding can benefit them, instructors are NOT practicing therapists.
Therapeutic riding has therapeutic benefits…
Wait… You just told you that instructors are not therapists but now therapeutic riding is therapeutic? Yes! Just like a relaxing walk outside or the scent of lavender can be considered “therapeutic” so can therapeutic riding. Horses, and the equine environment in general, provide a plethora of opportunities for participants to see benefits. Some of these benefits include improvements in:
Balance, posture, and coordination
Muscle tightness
Strength of core muscles necessary for walking
Cognition and motor planning
Vestibular, circulatory, and nervous system functions
Sensory processing skills
SO MANY MORE.
Therapeutic (adaptive) riding is a benefit to so many people in so many walks of life. Because it is considered an adaptive sport, participants get to learn a new, fun, rewarding sport all while seeing therapeutic benefits. The empowering experience of riding a horse is unmatched by any other adaptive sport.
Why Choose a PATH Intl. Center for your Equine-Assisted Program Needs?
By participating with a PATH Intl. center, you can be sure that you will be working with a center that is safe, professional, and ready to serve to the best of their ability.
When trying to choose the right place to participate in equine-assisted activities and therapies (EAAT), all of the options can be overwhelming. Here is a little bit of insight into the industry and why member centers and premier accredited centers of the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl) will give you the most worthwhile experience.
PATH Intl. Centers
PATH Intl. is a national organization, founded in 1969, under which centers providing EAAT can become members and accredited centers. With this association comes a constant presence of quality assurance. To become a PATH Intl. member center, a manual of standards, set forth by PATH Intl., must be followed during all EAAT activities. These standards focus on the safety of participants and volunteers during lessons and in the facility, as well as guidelines for how the business should be handled. Because of these standards, PATH Intl. centers are held to a higher standard than other therapeutic riding centers may be. In addition to these standards, PATH Intl. provides resources on numerous special challenges that centers may address and gives useful information to help them best serve these individuals in the EAAT setting.
PATH Intl. Professionals
Services performed by PATH Intl. centers are completed by internationally certified individuals in that discipline. For example, therapeutic riding lessons are taught by individuals who have gone through an intensive training process and testing to become a PATH Intl. Certified Instructor. In addition to this initial training, continuing education hours are required each year to maintain certification. Because of this, instructors are continually educating themselves for the betterment of the clients they serve. To learn more about the certification process for PATH Intl. therapeutic riding instructors, read The Process of Becoming a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor.
PATH Intl. Continued Improvement
Going along with this education, PATH Intl. itself is also always researching and improving the standards and up-to-date resources that are provided to its centers. Without these standards that serve as the backbone of PATH Intl. centers, there would be no underlying guideline to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the programs being offered at that center. By participating with a PATH Intl. center, you can be sure that you will be working with a center that is safe, professional, and ready to serve to the best of its ability.
What Shaped Me - A Note From our Instructor
Hilltop Horizons and therapeutic riding, hold a special place in my heart, so I thought I'd take the time to tell you all a little bit about my background and how I got here.
Hello!
I'm the owner and PATH Intl. therapeutic riding instructor at Hilltop Horizons. Hilltop Horizons and therapeutic riding, hold a special place in my heart, so I thought I'd take the time to tell you all a little bit about my background and how I got here.
Like every little girl's dream - I was lucky enough to get my first pony when I was eight years old. I joined 4-H around the same time and from here I started learning more and more about horses and became involved in shows, clinics, and community service projects. During my time in 4-H, I showed Western Pleasure on two of my beloved horses, one of which I trained from a baby. 4-H shaped my knowledge, experience, and love of horses and also taught me the importance of giving back to the community.
When I graduated high school and moved on to college at WVU, I took two equine-assisted therapies classes that were taught by the executive director of the nearby therapeutic horsemanship center, On Eagles' Wings. This is where I truly found my passion for the therapeutic horsemanship industry. At this center, I volunteered and gained my teaching hours to become a therapeutic riding instructor myself.
At the same time, I decided to move on from WVU to attend Chatham University in Pittsburgh. I had decided that I wanted to pursue a degree in occupational therapy, so that I could practice hippotherapy (another therapeutic horsemanship activity performed by a licensed therapist) in the future. Moving back to Pittsburgh, I now had the opportunity to begin my own therapeutic riding center, while pursuing my degree in occupational therapy. With these goals in mind, I completed a professional internship at another therapeutic riding center in the area, Nickers 'n Neighs (now The Stoneybrook Foundation), where I gained even more experience within the industry.
Outside of the horse world, I have experience with individuals with disabilities through my work in a community living setting for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Here, I really gained a deeper understanding of these individuals' needs and challenges, as well as the importance of celebrating who they are and what they accomplish everyday.
After all of these great opportunities, I traveled to North Carolina Therapeutic Riding Center and officially completed my certification as a registered-level PATH Intl. therapeutic riding instructor. I was beyond thrilled to achieve this goal and began the process of starting Hilltop Horizons!
Hilltop Horizons is named after my first show horse, who taught me so much about horses, riding, and life in general. "Sugar", as we called her at the barn, played a huge role in shaping my confidence and self image as a young girl. I truly don't believe I would be the person I am today without her, and other horses like her, that have been in my life.
Today at Hilltop Horizons, you can meet my first pony, my show horse that I trained from a baby, and a few other special horses, who all help out in our therapeutic riding lessons. A place so near and dear to my heart, I hope that Hilltop Horizons can give to others what horses have given to me over the years.
Thanks for reading,
Ainsley Berringer
Instruction vs. Games
It's important to realize that the games and activities that we provide during lessons do not replace riding instruction. In fact, these games and activities serve to enhance the learning of riding skills.
Every instructor is different and every therapeutic riding lesson is different. However, each lesson can basically be broken down into instruction and games/activities. Some lessons may contain more instruction than games or vice versa. It really depends on the riding skill and the rider.
Instruction
The instruction portion of riding lessons involves the What's, Why's, and How's of the riding skill. Riding skills are the core of our lessons, and these three areas help our riders to understand the riding skill on a deeper level and create more successful equestrians.
Games
This is where a riding skill can be applied in an engaging way. Games and activities can come in many different forms and use various teaching tools based on the needs of the rider. These games and activities are always facilitated by the instructor and focus on the goals of the rider.
Example Riding Skill and Relevant Game
Riding Skill: Halting
What: Stopping your horse
Why: It's important to be able to halt your horse so you have more control and independence while riding.
How: Pull back your reins to your hips and say "woah"
Relevant Game: Red Light, Green Light Activity
Games vs. Instruction
It's important to realize that the games and activities that we provide during lessons do not replace riding instruction. In fact, these games and activities serve to enhance the learning of riding skills. The games and activities always have a core purpose. They allow the rider to practice their riding skills in a fun and rewarding way. For some, activities grant an extra layer of complexity (such as a riding pattern) that will keep them challenged in their lessons. For others, a game might be a great way to keep the rider mentally engaged in performing their riding skills by incorporating elements that the rider is familiar with outside of riding lessons.
Tracking Riders' Progress
Here at Hilltop Horizons, we love to see our riders grow and succeed through our program - but how exactly is this tracked when each rider has vastly unique goals?
Here at Hilltop Horizons, we love to see our riders grow and succeed through our program - but how exactly is this tracked when each rider has vastly unique goals?
Initial Evaluation
This process begins during the rider's very visit to Hilltop Horizons. Each student undergoes a preliminary evaluation that allows our instructor to gauge their strengths and areas of difficulty. This allows us to determine the type of horse, tack, and support needed to make therapeutic riding lessons successful for this individual. The evaluation also serves as a great time to start forming goals for the rider. We discuss with the rider and their family areas where they would like to improve in their life. The instructor then takes this information and transforms it into goal-oriented horsemanship tasks. For example, if one of the rider's goals is to improve their communication skills, one of the first things we would work on would be verbally and non-verbally telling their horse to "walk on" and "woah".
Progress Notes
After each therapeutic riding lesson, the instructor will write progress notes on that session. These will include if the objective of the lesson was met, strengths and weaknesses of the lesson, and ideas for how to move forward in future lessons. Continuing with the example from above, a rider who was working on communication and had mastered cuing their horse to "walk on" and "woah", would then move to a goal such as communicating to their volunteers where they want to steer their horse in the arena. In this way, the rider is building on their communication and moving to interpersonal interactions.
The overall purpose of the evaluation and progress notes is to create a long term goal and work towards it through a series of short term goals. The goals and needs of the rider are constantly re-evaluated and changed as needed in order to create the most cultivating and successful experience for each rider.
What is Equine Assisted Learning?
In addition to the population that is traditionally served in therapeutic riding, Equine Assisted Learning is offered to an even larger breadth of individuals.
I wanted to switch gears this week and talk a little bit about another branch of Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies (EAAT) that may be beneficial to some members of our community. In addition to the population that is traditionally served in therapeutic riding, Equine Assisted Learning is offered to an even larger breadth of individuals.
What is Equine Assisted Learning?
Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) involves a series of unmounted horsemanship activities. These are often completed individually or in a larger group setting and focus on problem solving and team building exercises. In some cases, EAL sessions may focus on horsemanship activities that can't be done on horseback, such as bathing or leading the horse. In others, a group may use the horse as a means to a deeper understanding of themselves as individuals.
What are the benefits?
Horses are strong, independent, and emotionally expressive animals. Learning how they respond to your actions is often very eye opening to participants as they begin to realize the impact their actions may have on this animal (and people they interact with). Learning the nonverbal communication that horses use translates well to body language that we present to the people around us.
In addition to the increase in self-awareness, equine assisted learning can have an array of other benefits. There are countless educational, problem solving, team building, and fun activities that participants can be a part of to further their knowledge of themselves, their group, the horse, and the environment around them.
Group vs. Individual Therapeutic Riding Lessons
In general, therapeutic riding lessons can be taught in two formats - group or individual. Understanding the key differences between the two is important for determining the best type of lesson for each rider.
In general, therapeutic riding lessons can be taught in two formats - group or individual. Understanding the key differences between the two is important for determining the best type of lesson for each rider.
Group Lessons
I think there is often a perception that group lessons are simply designed to fit more lessons into one time frame. While we do strive to serve as many clients as possible, we would never do that at the expense of the quality of our service. Group lessons are both enriching and engaging to our riders, despite of (and often because of) sharing the lesson with another rider.
Riders are always placed in groups that the instructor believes will foster a healthy environment for growth and learning for all parties involved. Often this means the riders in a group will have similar goals and skill sets to succeed. Because of this, all riders are taught to their level and ability. Often times, each rider may even have different objectives in a lesson that are suited to their individual skill level, regardless of another rider's riding level.
Having a group of riders in a lesson cultivates an environment that promotes teamwork, modeling of skills, and some friendly competition. All of these things often help to motivate riders to work hard and have fun at the same time. In addition to this, many of our riders benefit from facilitated social interaction with a peer group. What better way to bond than over horseback riding?
Individual Lessons
Individual lessons involve one-on-one attention between instructor and rider. This is sometimes preferred when a rider needs direct intervention from the instructor for much of the lesson for postural or behavioral corrections. Often, individual lessons are chosen by an instructor for a few weeks until the rider becomes comfortable with their role as an equestrian, and the sidewalkers and horse leader are comfortable with the level of guidance that they need to provide. This could also be a chosen lesson format for a rider who is training for a riding event, such as a horse show.
Whether riding in group or individual lessons, every riding center and every instructor has the well being and success of their riders in mind when selecting a lesson format.
The Process of Becoming a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor
All of our therapeutic riding lessons at Hilltop Horizons Therapeutic Equestrian Center are taught by a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, but what does this really mean? What about this certification allows them to be effective attributes to the therapeutic riding industry?
All of our therapeutic riding lessons at Hilltop Horizons Therapeutic Equestrian Center are taught by a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, but what does this really mean? What about this certification allows them to be effective attributes to the therapeutic riding industry?
Phase I
The certification process can be generally divided into Phase I and Phase II. The first phase is more focused on completing tests and necessary paperwork that insure that the candidate has the knowledge vital to continuing on further in the process. After becoming an individual member of PATH Intl. and registering as a potential instructor in training, you have one year to submit a current copy of CPR and First Aid certifications and complete a series of online exams that focus on proper riding, teaching, and horse management skills. These tests contain very detailed material about the subjects, and really challenge the candidate to delve deeply into the field that they are pursuing. After these tests and forms are completed, the candidate has officially completed Phase I of instructor certification and receives a letter declaring them a PATH Intl. Therapeutic Riding Instructor in Training. From this point, the candidate has one year to complete Phase II.
Phase 2
Phase II targets hands-on training. The instructor in training must find a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor to serve as their mentor. This person will oversee lesson planning, teaching, and reflection as the candidate undertakes a minimum of 25 hours teaching therapeutic riding lessons to groups of at least two students. This is where a lot of the learning process really begins. Until this point, the candidate hasn’t been truly exposed to the problem solving, creativity, and adaptability necessary to be successful as an instructor. Learning to conduct a lesson with multiple riders with different goals and abilities, while maintaining a safe and enriching environment, can be as challenging as it is rewarding.
On-site workshop and certification
Along with the teaching hours, the candidate must complete an on-site workshop, held in various locations all over the nation, that explains exactly what PATH Intl. is looking for in a therapeutic riding instructor. After completing the workshop, and the instructor in training feels confident in their knowledge and abilities, they must complete on-site riding and teaching tests. The riding test consists of a warmup and a given pattern that tests your ability to transition between walk, trot, and canter, general control of the horse, and your ability to ride in proper form. The teaching test involves effectively teaching a riding skill to a group of two students with disabilities while utilizing proper safety practices.
Continuing education
After successfully passing both parts of the on-site certification, the individual is now considered a registered-level PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor! Each year after this, this certification has to be renewed by completing continuing education hours in disability education, riding skills, and general PATH program education. Each instructor also has to maintain a current certification in CPR and First Aid. In this way, each instructor will continually improve themselves for the benefit of the riders they are serving.
The Difference Between Therapeutic Riding and Hippotherapy
Both therapeutic riding and hippotherapy are extremely beneficial equine-assisted therapies. Their differences define them, but their similarities are what make them truly powerful.
It can be confusing to understand the difference between certain equine-assisted activities and therapies, particularly therapeutic riding and hippotherapy. On the surface, they seem very similar, and in fact they both accomplish many of the same goals, but there are some key differences between the two.
Therapeutic Riding
The distinguishing trait of therapeutic riding is the teaching of riding skills. The lessons are planned out with a certain riding objective in mind. Of course, these riding skills are targeted towards the rider's goals and needs, but the core of the lesson is still riding skills. For example, a rider who wants to work on improving their core strength would do so by learning riding skills such as sitting with proper riding posture or standing in 2-point position.
Therapeutic riding lessons are taught by a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor who goes through a rigorous certification process and completes continued education on relevant topics annually. PATH Intl. emphasizes that therapeutic riding lessons focus on a riding skill and the What's, Why's, and How's of that riding skill. It is a simple yet effective way to make sure our riders are getting the full scope of what they are learning.
Hippotherapy
Hippotherapy, named after the Latin word "hippo-" for horse, is a therapeutic practice that is utilized by occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech pathologists. Instead of teaching riding skills, these health professionals use the horse for its dynamic surface and specialized movement to accomplish a non-horse related goal with their client. In this setting, the horse acts as a therapeutic tool, rather than a riding partner.
These lessons are conducted by a licensed professional and must be under the supervision of a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor. This ensures that the session is conducted safely, as per PATH Intl.'s standards.
Both therapeutic riding and hippotherapy are extremely beneficial equine-assisted therapies. Their differences define them, but their similarities are what make them truly powerful.
Is Therapeutic Riding the Right Fit?
Therapeutic riding is an adaptable and creative industry that thrives on diversity and new challenges. We are excited to find new ways to help each rider overcome their individual obstacles in life, in a safe and fun environment.
I've been asked many times by potential participants and parents, if therapeutic riding is the right fit for them or their child. I thought I'd take this chance to explain some variables that disqualify participants and, more importantly, qualities that make them a great match for therapeutic riding.
Precautions and Contraindications
Based on a compilation of databases, PATH Intl. puts together a list of conditions that present "precautions" and "contraindications" to equine activities. In other words, these are conditions that may need special attention or awareness for riders to participate, or in some cases would indicate a rider unsuitable for equine activity. These are compared with the physician's statement - which is required for each participant. Based on the medical professional's information, and the relevant precautions and contraindications, the instructor can make an educated decision for the participant. You might think these guidelines limit a participants eligibility, but it's quite the opposite. Because of these written guidelines, instructors are able to take into consideration conditions that may become a concern and make accommodations accordingly, rather than dismissing a rider because of lack of knowledge on the disability.
Accommodations
With the precautions and contraindications in mind, a PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor can make the proper adjustments to suit many riders. You would be surprised by the challenges that we can overcome in a lesson. Scared or squirming participants are no match for the smiling faces of our instructor and volunteers. Therapeutic riding is an adaptable and creative industry that thrives on diversity and new challenges. We are excited to find new ways to help each rider overcome their individual obstacles in life, in a safe and fun environment. We welcome all types of personalities, interests, and abilities at our center.
Alternatives
While we make every effort to accommodate all types of individuals, sometimes therapeutic riding is simply not the right fit. This could be based on weight, age, or severity of medical conditions. In cases like this, we might suggest an alternative form of equine activity, such as Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) that involves unmounted horsemanship activities.
The best way to find out if you, or someone you know, is a viable candidate for therapeutic riding, is to contact us! We will be happy to meet and evaluate the options together.
read more...
-
Equine Assisted Learning
- Sep 19, 2017 What is Equine Assisted Learning?
- PATH Intl.
-
Therapeutic Riding
- Dec 18, 2019 Therapeutic Riding: An Adaptive Sport with Many Benefits
- Feb 1, 2018 What Shaped Me - A Note From our Instructor
- Oct 23, 2017 Instruction vs. Games
- Oct 12, 2017 Tracking Riders' Progress
- Sep 12, 2017 Group vs. Individual Therapeutic Riding Lessons
- Aug 29, 2017 The Difference Between Therapeutic Riding and Hippotherapy
- Aug 24, 2017 Is Therapeutic Riding the Right Fit?
- Aug 17, 2017 The Science Behind Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies
- Aug 9, 2017 What Makes the Horse Such a Powerful Tool?
- Jul 24, 2017 What Do Therapeutic Riding Lessons Look Like?
-
Volunteer
- Jul 31, 2017 How Can You Make an Impact?