THERAPEUTIC HORSEBACK RIDING
Therapeutic riding is an equine-assisted activity for the purpose of contributing positively to the cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being of individuals with special needs. Therapeutic riding provides benefits in the areas of health, education, sport and recreation & leisure. Throughout the world, there are thousands of individuals with special needs who experience the rewarding benefits of horseback riding. A disability does not have to limit a person from riding horses. In fact, experiencing the motion of a horse can be very therapeutic, because horseback riding rhythmically moves the rider’s body in a manner similar to a human gait, riders with physical disabilities often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength. In addition to the therapeutic benefits, horseback riding also provides recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities to enjoy the outdoors.
As part of our program, children will be instructed on arena riding, games, interaction with horses, grooming, touching, and tacking. All based on the rider’s individual goals.
Volunteer
Volunteers serve a vital role in the success of our Therapeutic Program at Helping Hooves. As a volunteer, your support and dedication enables us to reach a diverse population of riders. Your compassion and gift of time add an important dimension to their lives. Most volunteer opportunities do not require special skills. We provide the necessary training and guidance to make your volunteer experience safe and enjoyable. Volunteers assist in riding lessons by leading or side walking. Horse experience is always welcomed to aid in tacking and handling, but not required.
We welcome you as a member of the growing family of individuals whose lives have been enriched by their efforts to help others.
Email today to start volunteering!
Therapeutic Horseback riding lessons are $70 per lesson and riders come once a week.
OUR TRAINERS
Our Trainers are certified through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship (PATH) and have a strong Equestrian background. This combination ensures our riders a safe and quality lesson.
As a Johnson & Wales University graduate and PATH Certified Trainer, Stephanie Brings her love and knowledge of horses to all of her students.
Stephanie fell in love with horses at a young age, riding and competing throughout her childhood. Amidst earning her bachelor’s in equine studies, she discovered her passion for therapeutic riding while volunteering for course credits.
In the years following graduation, Stephanie instructed at several therapeutic riding facilities in New England helping to grow their programs. After the birth of her first child, Stephanie decided to slow things down and found her way to Helping Hooves in 2013. As our lead trainer Miss Stephanie instructs and manages lesson development, volunteers, and horse care.
Teaching children of different abilities is her passion, but in her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family and riding her own horse Chex.
PATH Certified Trainer
Massachusetts Licensed Trainer
CPR/ First Aid certified
STEPHANIE FAIOLA
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