RIDE TO RENEW
Our program for children who have suffered abuse and neglect or who are struggling with mental health issues
THERAPEION THERAPEUTIC RIDING CENTER
The familiar quote from Winston Churchill states that "There is something about the outside of the horse that is good for the inside of man".  This is never truer than with these children who are in great need of healing.

Therapeion Therapeutic Riding Center provides individual therapeutic horseback riding lessons together with one-on-one interaction with trained volunteer mentors to children who are victims of abuse and children who are struggling to overcome mental health issues.  Lessons are to provided on a weekly basis and include a combination of equine and classroom activities.   Before a child rides, however, she or he has ground lesson time with his or her horse; time that allows them to relax and bond with the horse.    The relationship that develops between a rider and a horse builds trust, is an emotional outlet, and is a source for affection and love that is needed so much by these victims.

Most of our riders are referred to us by county Child Protective Service agencies, churches, therapists, mental health centers, and other organizations. 

We utilize riding and horse care activities because these activities and the resulting relationships established between horses and riders have been shown to provide an effective form of therapy. The combination of a horse's size and gentleness is especially helpful in teaching children that it is possible to be both strong and kind without sacrificing one for the other.

In addition, the rider's developing riding skills builds self confidence and is a source of pride that can be shared with the victim's family and friends.

The victims have a role model in the dedicated volunteer mentors. These specially trained mentors work closely with the Therapeion staff to facilitate the healing process.

All riding lessons are provided by a Therapeion Therapeutic Riding Center instructor who is certified by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association.