Therapeutic riding isn’t just horseback riding—it’s a transformative experience that fosters confidence, independence, and connection.

At Northland Therapeutic Riding Center, every session is about so much more than learning to sit tall in the saddle. It’s about overcoming obstacles, celebrating progress, and building trust—both in oneself and in an equine partner.

More Than Just Riding: Real-Life Impact

For children, teens, and adults living with physical, emotional, or mental special needs, therapeutic riding opens doors to a world of possibilities. Each class is carefully designed to meet participants where they are, helping them:

Build Strength & Coordination: Riding engages core muscles, improves posture, and develops fine and gross motor skills.
Enhance Emotional Regulation: Horses have an incredible ability to mirror human emotions, providing immediate feedback and a calming presence.
Boost Confidence & Independence: Every small achievement in the barn builds self-esteem and empowers participants to tackle challenges at home.
Foster Communication & Social Skills: Whether it’s giving directions to their horse, interacting with volunteers, or sharing stories after class, participants grow their ability to express themselves.

These aren’t just nice-to-have benefits—they’re life-changing skills that ripple into everyday life, helping participants thrive at home, school, work, and in their communities.

Check out the results from our most recent post-session survey.

Breaking Stereotypes: Therapeutic Riding is for Everyone

There’s a common misconception that horseback riding is an exclusive hobby for the elite. At NTRC, we know the true power of therapeutic riding transcends stereotypes—it’s not about privilege, it’s about possibility.

Our participants come from diverse backgrounds and face a wide range of challenges. What unites them isn’t wealth or status—it’s the desire to grow, heal, and connect in a safe, supportive environment.

We believe therapeutic riding should be accessible to everyone who can benefit from it. That’s why we work tirelessly to make sessions affordable:

Many of our participants utilize financial support through insurance or government supported programs, which significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs to under $15 per class.
For those who do not qualify for coverage, we offer a self-pay rate of under $50 per class.

The reality? Each lesson costs NTRC $250 per rider to deliver. These costs include professional instruction, horse care, facility maintenance, and program supplies. The difference is bridged by generous sponsorships, grants, and community donations—ensuring that no rider is turned away due to financial barriers.

When you support NTRC, you’re not just funding a class. You’re funding transformation, one rider at a time.

Our Commitment to Excellence: PATH Intl. Accreditation

At Northland Therapeutic Riding Center, we are proud to be recognized as a PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center—a mark of excellence in the field of therapeutic horsemanship.

What is PATH Intl.?

The Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) sets the global standard for safe, ethical, and effective equine-assisted services. Their rigorous accreditation process ensures that centers like NTRC meet the highest standards in safety, professionalism, and program quality.

What Does Premier Accreditation Mean?

Being a Premier Accredited Center means:

Our programs are held to the highest standards of safety and care.
Our instructors are PATH Intl. certified professionals, trained to provide safe, effective, and compassionate instruction.
Our facilities, horses, and programming undergo regular inspections and reviews to maintain quality.

For our participants and their families, this accreditation is more than just a credential—it’s a promise of trust, safety, and excellence in every interaction.

When you choose NTRC, you’re choosing a center that prioritizes care, compassion, and commitment to every rider and horse in our program.

Why It’s Worthwhile

Therapeutic riding isn’t just about the ride—it’s about the joyful moments, the hard-earned milestones, and the ripple effect that extends far beyond our property.

A non-verbal child speaks their first word to their horse.
A teen struggling with anxiety finds calm and focus in the saddle.
An adult living with a physical disability gains strength and mobility they never thought possible.

These are the real-world moments that drive us. They remind us that therapeutic riding isn’t a luxury—it’s an essential tool for growth, healing, and empowerment.

At NTRC, every hoofbeat tells a story of progress, every session builds a bridge to possibility, and every rider discovers something remarkable—about horses, about life, and about themselves.

Join Us in Changing Lives, One Ride at a Time

Whether you’re a potential volunteer, a donor, or someone curious about what we do, we invite you to experience the transformative power of therapeutic riding. We hold open houses the final Saturday of every session and visitors are always welcome. Check our upcoming events for more information or email us to set up a tour.