Heritage Place Equestrian/T.R.E.A.T. Programs

Therapeutic Riding

Therapeutic Riding is an adaptive horseback riding lesson for those with disabilities. Therapeutic Riding can be provided in a 1:1 format or in a group. During this lesson the rider learns basic horsemanship. The riders also learn to care for the horse emotionally as well as physically by learning to read the horses behaviors and body language. Therapeutic Riding is provided by a NARHA certified instructor or by an instructor who is being observed by a NARHA certified instructor in order to obtain NARHA certification hours. During Therapeutic Riding our goal is to provide educational, social, and therapeutic opportunities for the rider to succeed and learn from.

Autism and Theraputic Riding

Here at Heritage Equestrian/T.R.E.A.T. we have worked to develop programs that are specifically designed for children with Pervasive Developmental Disorders. We use a blend of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), TEACCH, Sensory Integration, Occupational, Verbal Behavior and Speech Therapies. Our goal is to encourage learning through positive social interactions and bonding with the equine that does promote improved verbal communication in our participants.

Hippotherapy

Hippotherapy is done in a 1:1 format with a Physical or Occupational Therapist in tandem with a horse professional. The goal is to use the natural movement and warmth of the horse to help the rider to gain physical strength, coordination, and range of motion. The movement of a horse simulates the movement of a normal human pelvis which allows the rider to gain more normal posture, balance, and body movements. In Hippotherapy the lead therapist works continuously hands on assessing and modifying the client and horse to get the best physical and neurological response possible for the rider or participant.

Special Olympics

Special Olympics is done in a 1:1 format or small group by a certified Special Olympics Coach. The goal of this activity is getting the participant to a riding level that he/she can be competitive in the Special Olympics Games. This activity will help the participant gain self-confidence as well as physical and independence skills. Riders skills are evaluated with every lesson and redefined as needed to improve the participant’s skill levels.

At-Risk-Youth Program

Our program consists of weekly barn management, horseback riding, community service, and EAGALA services for youth in alternative education programs. Horses are a great incentive for youth participants they tend to accept and be non-judgmental therefore allowing participants to be more willing to participate, and to be more open, trusting, cooperative, and appreciative.

Program participants must meet behavioral and academic standards set by their school, group home, or guardian along with standards set by Heritage Place/T.R.E.A.T.. Mentors will be assigned to work with our participants they will encourage them to be improve communication skills, learning skills, and to improve self-esteem and confidence. Participants will also be required to volunteer for or therapeutic riding programs as side walkers, or helpers. This contact with persons with disabilities will promote empathy, kindness, and generosity in youth raised in a society where these qualities in character are lacking.

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy

Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is an emerging field in which horses are used as a tool for emotional growth and learning. EAP is a collaborative effort between a licensed therapist and a horse professional. Because of its intensity and effectiveness, it is considered a short-term or "brief" approach.

EAP is experiential in nature. This means that participants learn about themselves and others by participating in activities with the horses, and then processing (or discussing) feelings, behaviors, and patterns. This approach has been compared to the ropes courses used by therapists, treatment facilities, and human development courses around the world. But EAP has the added advantage of utilizing horses, dynamic and powerful living beings.

Not all programs or individuals who use horses practice Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. For one, licensed clinical professionals need to be involved for it to be considered "psychotherapy". The focus of EAP is not riding or horsemanship. The focus of EAP involves setting up ground activities involving the horses which will require the client or group to apply certain skills. Non-verbal communication, assertiveness, creative thinking and problem-solving, leadership, work, taking responsibility, teamwork and relationships, confidence, and attitude are several examples of the tools utilized and developed by EAP.

EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has an incredible impact on individuals, youth, families, and groups. EAP addresses a variety of mental health and human development needs including behavioral issues, attention deficit disorder, substance abuse, eating disorders, abuse issues, depression, anxiety, relationship problems and communication needs.