The horse selection and training are an important part of all equine related therapies provided by Adaptive Riding Institute. Our staff of Horse Specialists has over 50 years combined training skills working with horses and other assistance animals. They are committed to use their expertise to make your involvement in this program a success. 

Many people with disabilities have had their mounts custom trained by our competent staff.  Adaptive Riding Institute has been designing and developing custom riding and carriage driving equipment since well before the conception of the program itself. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Contributions are tax deductible to the extent of the law.

Adaptive Riding Institute was founded in 1988 with a focus on providing recreational horseback riding to people of all ages with physical limitations. Each rider is encouraged to set individual goals and complete the New Rider Application. Today's program offers a wide range of opportunities in Equine Assisted Therapy.

What is Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT)? 

• The use of the horse in helping people develop strength, balance and coordination
• A powerful tool in behavior modification
• Provides an enriching form of recreation
• Is focused on individuals, groups, families, corporations
• Fosters growth and personal development

- - -  ARI offers four  Equine Assisted Programs - - -

1. Therapeutic Riding
Uses the horse to provide Physical and Occupational Therapists the opportunity to promote positive movement challenges. Therapeutic riding offers the additional benefits of specific treatment strategies in rehabilitation and improves:

• Quality of Movement
• Sensory-Motor Skills
• Cognitive Skills
• Physical Strength and Development
• Sensory Integration Behavior
• Language
• Posture, Balance and Mobility holistic approach addresses both the physical and emotional needs of the client.

2. Personal Development & Learning

An emerging field in which horses, dynamic and powerful living beings, are as a tool for emotional growth and learning.  Participants learn about themselves and by participating in activities with horses, then discussing feelings, behaviors and patterns. 

This experience can be a beneficial treatment strategy for:

• Substance Abuse
• Eating Disorders
• Depression
• Anxiety

…and can promote improvement in:

• Relationships
• Communication
• Self-Esteem
• Behavior Disorders

3. Recreational Horseback Riding

• Horseback activities for persons with disabilities as a hobby
• Seniors or others with dementia who are looking to reconnect with horses
• Trail riding and weekend camping trips which can include family and friends

4. Equine Assisted Recreational Therapy

This is our most popular program and combines all three programs mentioned above.  This program is sometimes supervised by a physical or occupational therapist, but is taught by our highly skilled instructors and is designed to make therapy fun, with a willing and non-judgmental partner (the horse), while improving physical mobility or overcoming challenges.

All equipment is provided including ASTM approved helmets.