1

Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HORSE ACTIVITY CENTER Opening Date: 07/24/2026 Closing Date: 8/7/2026 5:00 PM Central FLSA: Non-Exempt General Summary The Riding Instructor is responsible for providing safe, engaging, and ...

Riding Instructor

Owings Mills, MD · On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

Riding Instructor/Team Coach/Local Show Coach Garrison Forest School is seeking an organized ... Prepare horses and facilities for lessons, competitions, and related activities on a timely basis.

New

Purpose The Equine Instructor provides therapeutic riding instruction and horsemanship education for youth in a residential treatment setting. This role combines equestrian instruction, horse care ...

Showing results 21-40

Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructor information

What challenges do therapeutic horseback riding instructors face when working with diverse riders, and how can they address them?

Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructors often work with individuals who have a wide range of physical, cognitive, or emotional needs, which can present unique challenges in adapting lesson plans and ensuring each rider's safety and progress. Instructors must be flexible, patient, and creative in modifying activities to suit individual abilities while maintaining a positive and supportive environment. Effective communication with riders, their families, and support staff is essential to understand each participant's goals and to monitor any changes in their needs or behavior. Collaborating closely with therapists and equine specialists also helps instructors provide the best possible experience and outcomes for their riders.

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

To thrive as a Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructor, you need expertise in horseback riding, knowledge of equine behavior, and a background in therapeutic or adaptive riding, often supported by certification such as PATH Intl. Registered Instructor. Familiarity with safety protocols, adaptive tack, and equine-assisted therapy tools is essential. Strong communication, patience, and empathy help instructors effectively support riders with diverse physical, emotional, or cognitive needs. These skills ensure a safe, supportive, and enriching environment that fosters therapeutic progress and rider confidence.

What is the difference between Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructor vs Equine Therapist?

AspectTherapeutic Horseback Riding InstructorEquine Therapist
CredentialsCertified riding instructor, often with therapeutic riding certificationLicensed mental health or occupational therapist with equine therapy training
Work EnvironmentEquestrian centers, therapy facilities, outdoor riding arenasTherapy clinics, hospitals, private practices, outdoor settings
Industry UsageFocuses on riding skills and therapeutic benefits through horseback ridingUses horses as a tool for mental health and physical therapy

While both roles involve working with horses to promote well-being, Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructors primarily teach riding skills with therapeutic benefits, whereas Equine Therapists use horses as part of clinical therapy sessions to address mental or physical health issues.

What does a therapeutic horseback riding instructor do?

A Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructor is a professional who uses horseback riding as a means to help individuals with physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities improve their quality of life. They design and lead sessions that incorporate riding and horse care activities tailored to each rider's abilities and needs. The instructor works closely with the riders, their families, and sometimes other therapy professionals to ensure a safe, supportive, and effective therapeutic experience.
More about Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructor jobs
Infographic showing various Therapeutic Horseback Riding Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Now Contracting Therapeutic Horseback Riding (THBR) Providers Houston

Disability Services of the Southwest, Inc.

Houston, TX • On-site

$77.43/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Position Description
Now Contracting: Therapeutic Horseback Riding (THBR) Providers - Houston & Surrounding Areas! ?? Empower Lives Through Equine Therapy - Partner with DSSW Today!
Are you a certified Therapeutic Horseback Riding (THBR) provider or facility passionate about helping individuals with disabilities? Disability Services of the Southwest (DSSW) is expanding in the Houston area, and we're looking for compassionate, skilled partners to join our mission.
Why Partner with DSSW?
$77.43/hour - Competitive contract compensation
Flexible scheduling - Work on your terms
Make a difference - Help children and adults with disabilities gain confidence, strength, and independence
Established nonprofit - Serving Texas communities for over 30 years
About the Role:
• Provide equine-assisted therapy to individuals enrolled in the CLASS program
• Serve a population of severely disabled children and adults with ongoing therapeutic needs
• Collaborate with a supportive, mission-driven team
Location: Houston & surrounding areas Compensation: $77.43/hour (Contract Position)
Who We Serve:
• Primarily children with severe disabilities
• Adults with long-term care needs
Ready to Join Us? Learn more and submit your application here: https://dsswtx.org/contractor-forms.aspx