ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor Jobs in Washington, DC

Loudoun County Government

Aquatics Instructor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$16 - $31/hr

... Riding, VA • Round Hill Indoor Aquatics Center, Round Hill, VA • Lovettsville Community Center ... Current Lifeguarding Instructor certification and/or First Aid/CPR/ AED Instructor certification or ...

Loudoun County Government

Aquatics Instructor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$16 - $31/hr

... resume, certifications, etc.). Please ensure your profile and resume are up to date with all ... South Riding, VA Round Hill Indoor Aquatics Center, Round Hill, VA Lovettsville Community Center ...

Congressional School

Equine Instructor

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Hands-on experience handling and instructing around horses (camp, lesson barn, therapeutic, or ... Relevant training/certifications a plus. * Organized and safety-focused; comfortable working ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCertified Therapeutic Riding Instructor JobsCertified Therapeutic Riding Instructor Jobs in Washington, DC

Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor information

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 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.

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.

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 prerequisite experience and training hours.

How to become a certified therapeutic riding instructor?

To become a certified therapeutic riding instructor, you typically need to complete a specialized training program through a recognized certifying organization, such as PATH International, which includes coursework, practical teaching experience, and assessments. Additionally, CPR and first aid certifications are often required, and ongoing education helps maintain certification standards.

What are popular job titles related to Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs in Washington, DC?

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

What job categories do people searching Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs in Washington, DC are:

Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Horseback riding instructor: Full time

Washington, DC • On-site

METROPOLITAN EQUESTRIAN
See more jobs at METROPOLITAN EQUESTRIANexternal

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Horseback Riding Instructor (Full-Time & Part-Time) – Metropolitan Equestrian
 
Locations: Washington. DC

About Us:
Metropolitan Equestrian is dedicated to providing top-tier equestrian education to students of all ages and skill levels. Our mission is to foster a love for riding, horsemanship, and competition while creating a supportive and inspiring environment for our riders. We are seeking passionate and experienced Full-Time Riding Instructor to join our team in Washington, DC.  

Job Responsibilities: 
- Teach private and group riding lessons for riders of all levels, from beginners to advanced.  
- Provide instruction in both English and hunter/jumper disciplines  
- Ensure safety and proper horsemanship practices for all students.  
- Develop lesson plans tailored to riders’ skills and goals.  
- Supervise students during riding sessions and provide constructive feedback.   
- Maintain a positive and professional atmosphere for riders, families, and staff.  
Qualifications:
- Prior experience teaching riding lessons in a professional setting.  
- Strong knowledge of horse care, training, and stable management.  
- Ability to work with students of all ages and riding abilities.  
- Patient, enthusiastic, and safety-conscious teaching style.  
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.  
- Must be able to pass a background check and complete the Safesport certification. 
- Must be available for evenings and weekends as needed.  
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.  

What We Offer:
 - Competitive pay based on experience and availability.  
 - Opportunity to work with a dynamic and passionate equestrian team nationwide.    
 - Professional development opportunities, including clinics and certifications.  
 - A welcoming, inclusive community for both instructors and students.  
 
How to Apply:
Please send your resume and a brief cover letter to membership@meteq.org with the subject line “Riding Instructor Application  DC – [Full-Time.  

Join us in shaping the next generation of equestrians at Metropolitan Equestrian!