Therapeutic & Adaptive Riding
Riding should be available to everyone.
We're here to make that possible.
At HorseSpeak, our Therapeutic and Adaptive Riding program is built to meet every rider where they are — whether the support they need is physical, sensory, cognitive, or behavioral.
Every session is individualized, and guided by safety, presence, and respect for the rider and the horse.
You don't need experience.
You don't need the right words.
We begin with a conversation.
Some riders need physical or practical support to ride safely. Others are navigating sensory sensitivities, cognitive differences, or simply need more time and patience than a standard riding program allows.
We take time to understand each rider and shape every session around what they actually need - not what is easiest to deliver.
Every rider arrives differently, and that
is exactly what we plan for
Two things happen in every session
Riding, adapted to the rider. Real access to riding, with adaptive equipment, mounting assistance, horse leaders and sidewalkers wherever they help. Balance, coordination, position and riding skill, built at each rider’s own pace.
Life skills, alongside the riding. Emotional regulation. Communication. Focus and attention. Problem solving. Self awareness. Social interaction. These are not extras. For many of our riders they are the reason they come, and the horse is what makes them possible.
Sessions are led by a riding instructor and supported by trained volunteers. This program is not clinical treatment and it is not psychotherapy. If therapy is what you are looking for, our Equine Assisted Psychotherapy is guided by a licensed clinician - just ask, and we will point you the right way.
Access and support
Adaptive equipment, mounting assistance, horse leaders and sidewalkers as needed
Communication supports where they help
Wheelchair ramp available
No mechanical lift at this time
A small program by design, adjusted as a rider’s needs change
Every session is paced to the rider - never rushed, never forced.
Sessions and Support
Support to ride safely and comfortably
Every rider is different, and so is every session.
We work out the right level of support together, at your first riding assessment — an hour with you and the horses, meeting each other, reviewing any medical information, finding the right horse, and working out what support will help.
After that we'll talk you through exactly what your sessions will look like — who's on the team and what support is in place. Nothing changes without us talking with you first.
Sessions are:
- Led by a trained riding instructor
- Supported by trained volunteers when needed
- Adjusted as the rider's needs change
- Revisited each year, and any time something changes
- A small program by design
- Never rushed, never forced
For current session rates, prepaid options and availability, please give us a call.
And if cost is the thing standing in your way, please tell us. We're a nonprofit, we hold a number of assisted places, and we'd far rather have that conversation than have you not come.
GETTING STARTED
Begin by contacting the HorseSpeak office to schedule an appointment — whether you’re asking for yourself or for someone in your care.
We’ll answer questions, talk through options, and help you decide what feels right.
If you’re unsure — that’s okay.
We’ll take it one step at a time.
Call (209) 772-3871 →
