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Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor information

How long does it take to become a certified therapeutic riding instructor?

Becoming a certified therapeutic riding instructor typically requires completing a training program that lasts from several days to several weeks, depending on the certifying organization. Candidates usually need to gain experience working with horses and individuals with disabilities, and pass written and practical assessments to earn certification. The process can take several months to a year, including time for training, supervised teaching, and certification exams.

What is a certified therapeutic riding instructor?

A Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor is a professional who is trained and credentialed to teach horseback riding to individuals with physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges. They use equine-assisted activities to help improve participants’ physical strength, coordination, confidence, and social skills. These instructors are certified by organizations such as the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.), which ensures they meet high standards for safety, instruction, and knowledge of working with diverse populations. Their primary role is to create individualized lesson plans, ensure the safety of riders, and facilitate a positive therapeutic experience with horses.

What is the difference between Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor vs Certified Riding Instructor?

AspectCertified Therapeutic Riding InstructorCertified Riding Instructor
CertificationsSpecialized in therapeutic riding, often requiring additional certifications in adaptive riding and therapeutic techniquesFocuses on general riding skills, certifications like USPC or PATH Certified Riding Instructor
Work EnvironmentTherapeutic riding centers, clinics, hospitals, working with individuals with disabilitiesEquestrian centers, riding schools, general riding lessons for all ages
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in therapeutic and rehabilitation settings, equine therapy programsCommon in recreational riding, competitive riding, and general equestrian education

The main difference is that Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors specialize in working with individuals with disabilities and have additional training in therapeutic techniques. Certified Riding Instructors focus on general riding skills and are employed in broader equestrian settings. Both roles require certification, but the therapeutic instructor's training emphasizes adaptive riding and therapy-specific skills.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a certified therapeutic riding instructor?

To thrive as a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, you need a deep understanding of equine management, adaptive riding techniques, and therapeutic principles, usually backed by PATH Intl. certification or similar credentials. Familiarity with safety protocols, horse tack, and adaptive equipment is essential, as well as experience maintaining lesson records and progress reports. Strong communication, patience, and empathy are crucial for building rapport with riders of varying abilities and collaborating with families and healthcare professionals. These skills ensure a safe, supportive, and effective environment that fosters the physical and emotional development of participants.

What are common challenges faced by certified therapeutic riding instructors and how can they be managed?

Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors often encounter challenges such as adapting lesson plans to meet the diverse physical, cognitive, and emotional needs of each rider. Maintaining safety for both participants and horses, while fostering a supportive and encouraging environment, is also a key responsibility. Effective communication and collaboration with occupational therapists, volunteers, and caregivers are crucial for success. Ongoing professional development and peer networking can help instructors stay current with best practices and manage these challenges proactively.

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For Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Therapeutic Horsemanship Instructor

Ray Graham Association

Burr Ridge, IL • On-site

$16.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
Job Title: Therapeutic Horsemanship Instructor
Job Summary:
We are seeking a compassionate and experienced Therapeutic Horsemanship Instructor to join our team. As a Therapeutic Horsemanship Instructor, you will be responsible for providing therapeutic riding lessons to individuals with developmental disabilities. You will work closely with our clients to help them develop their horsemanship skills, improve their physical and emotional well-being, and achieve their personal goals.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement lesson plans that are tailored to the individual needs of each client
- Teach clients basic horsemanship skills, including grooming, tacking, and riding
- Monitor clients' progress and adjust lesson plans as needed
- Ensure the safety of clients, volunteers, and horses at all times
- Maintain accurate records of client progress and attendance
- Communicate regularly with clients' families and caregivers to provide updates on progress and discuss any concerns
- Participate in staff meetings and training sessions as required
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Horsemanship, Special Education, or a related field
- Certification as a Therapeutic Riding Instructor by PATH Intl. or equivalent organization
- Minimum of 2 years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities
- Strong knowledge of horsemanship and equine care
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Flexibility to work weekends and evenings as needed
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you are passionate about helping individuals with developmental disabilities achieve their goals and improve their quality of life, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding position.
Drug-Free Workplace Commitment
We are proud to be a drug-free workplace. All candidates must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening and may be subject to random testing throughout employment. We are committed to promoting a safe and productive environment for all employees.
Salary Description
$16.50

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