What is “therapeutic” riding?
Because
the movement of a horse mimics the movement of a human’s
walk, riders experience this movement in their own bodies
and receive physical, sensory, and neurological
stimulation. This translates to stronger muscles, better
balance and coordination, and, just as importantly, greater
self-confidence and self-esteem.
How
does someone get into a therapeutic riding
program?
At
Ridin’ High, our process goes like this: When a call or
request is received by us, we send out an application
package that includes medical forms, release forms, and
information about our program. When we get the forms back,
we schedule an evaluation. This is done by a member of our
staff and sometimes with the assistant of a licensed
Physical Therapist. Evaluations are free. Not everyone who
is evaluated, however, is accepted into the program.
Sometimes there are reasons, for the safety of the rider or
our staff, why we cannot accept a rider. We follow NARHA
guidelines in making these decisions. Once accepted, a time
for weekly lesson is chosen, if available. If we do not
have an opening, the rider is placed on a waiting list
until an opening becomes available. We make every effort to
accept riders into our program as quickly as
possible.
How
can I get the forms to sign up?
Download
the forms by clicking on the links below:
1) Cover Letter ---
CoverLetter-Packets0107.pdf
2)
Participant Registration & Release --
ParticipantRelease.pdf
3)
Physician Cover Letter --
PhysCoverLtr.pdf
4)
Medical History Form --
MedicalHistForm.pdf
5)
Authorization for Emergency Treatment --
AuthForEmergMedTrmt.pdf
What
happens after the Initial Evaluation?
After the initial evaluation, goals are set for the rider
for the current Session. These may include physical,
cognitive, and/or behavioral goals. An appropriate
method of mounting and dismounting are described and put in
the rider's chart. Suggestions for appropriate horses and
tack are also included. This information is then used
by our instructors to design lesson plans and objectives
for each lesson. At the end of the Session, the rider
is reassessed to see if the goals have been met and to set
new goals.
When
are lessons?
We currently offer lessons on Mondays and Tuesdays in the
Spring, Summer, and Fall. Please see our
Schedule
for exact session dates.
How
much does it cost?
Riders sign up for a Session which is composed of 8 weeks.
The cost for each Session is 8 lessons at $12 per lesson
for a total of $96. Registration fees must be paid in
advance of each Session.
