Here at Cornerstone we offer both therapeutic horseback riding and equine assisted psychotherapy. There is a definite difference between therapeutic horseback riding and equine assisted psychotherapy, but for now I am only going to discuss the differences in therapeutic horseback riding and traditional horseback riding.
First, there is a different requirement in the trainings required. There are many organizations that horseback riding instructors can be certified in for example, the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) or American Riding Instructor Association (ARIA). These organizations focus on producing instructors that are competent in horsemanship and related areas. There is one “gold” standard for therapeutic horseback riding. It is the organization called PATH (Professional Association Therapeutic Horsemanship International). This training requires the instructor to demonstrate their knowledge of disabilities, equines, teaching and human-animal interactions. The training involves unmounted and mounted activities. Cornerstone employs a PATH certified instructor.
Second, there is a difference in the focus or goals of each lesson. A traditional riding lesson has a focus on increasing the physical skills of riding. There is a focus on the correct position of the body and at higher levels the position of horse. There is also usually a focus on a specific style of riding, like English or Western. A therapeutic horseback riding lesson has a focus on improving the rider’s emotional, physical, or mental well-being. The riding skills are important but not the focus. A therapeutic horseback riding instructor has a specialized focus on helping riders with different special needs, from ADHD to Down syndrome.
There are other differences that may or may not be relevant. Therapeutic riding lessons usually follow a structured format which includes stretching, a skill instruction and a game that implements the skills. Therapeutic riding lessons often employ volunteers who help lead the horse, and/or help assist the rider by providing physical support. Traditional riding lessons usually do not include games as a regular part of their lessons or volunteers.
Here at Cornerstone, we readily admit that we do not teach “normal” riding lessons. We are heavily influenced by natural horsemanship theories, PATH standards and best practices and the owner’s teaching background and mental health expertise.
Each lesson contains instruction in basic horsemanship and basic horseback riding. Our lessons are broken into 2 parts. In the first half of the lesson, students learn how to enjoy their horse on the ground. We want each student to understand and bond with the horse that they are partnered with. We teach horse behavior along with the basics of catching, leading and saddling a horse. The second half of the lesson is focused on learning horseback riding skills. We work on things like holding the reins, controlling the speed of the horse and proper position in the saddle. Each lesson includes a game or drill that reinforces the skills the students are learning. We include values instruction within our lessons. Some of the values we stress are kindness, respect, self-control, honesty, and gratitude. We believe in the importance of connecting with our horses. They are not a machine and each one has their own individual personalities. We want to value and honor those differences.
I believe that the lessons we offer are of benefit to everyone. We create riders that are confident and happy! At Cornerstone, we have developed our own unique style for teaching therapeutic horseback riding. We are proud of the work we do and would love to add you to our family! Contact us today!
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