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Therapeutic Riding Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Rite of Passage

Part Time Equine Assistant

Lignum, VA · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Experience in EAP/equine therapy, animal assisted therapy, or therapeutic riding * Ability to ride at a CHA level 3 or above. Riders must be under 180 pounds * Experience working with children ...

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Therapeutic Riding information

What Are Therapeutic Riding Jobs?

Therapeutic riding, also known as equine therapy, is a program in which a client with a mental or physical disability interacts with horses. The program does not treat a condition like ADHD or depression, but instead helps clients learn necessary skills, social cues, and responsibilities. Your duties in therapeutic riding involve assisting clients with a ride, showing them how to groom or feed a horse, teaching them how to stock or clean a barn, and talking to clients during and after their experience about what they learned and how to apply those lessons to their life. An equine therapist, riding instructor or aide, program director, and program manager are some therapeutic riding positions.

What are some common challenges therapeutic riding instructors face when working with clients and horses?

Therapeutic riding instructors often encounter challenges such as adapting lesson plans to meet the diverse physical, cognitive, or emotional needs of their clients. They must also ensure the safety and well-being of both riders and horses, which requires strong observation skills and quick decision-making. Coordinating with therapists, volunteers, and horse handlers is essential for smooth sessions, and instructors need to be flexible and patient as progress can vary greatly among participants. Additionally, maintaining the physical health and training of therapy horses is an ongoing responsibility.

What is therapeutic riding?

Therapeutic riding is a form of equine-assisted activity where individuals with physical, emotional, or cognitive challenges participate in horseback riding sessions. These sessions are led by certified instructors and aim to improve balance, coordination, confidence, and social skills. Unlike hippotherapy, which is conducted by licensed therapists for medical treatment, therapeutic riding focuses on overall well-being, recreation, and personal development. It can benefit people of all ages with a variety of needs, including autism, cerebral palsy, and learning disabilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Therapeutic Riding Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Therapeutic Riding Instructor, you need a strong understanding of horsemanship, equine care, and the basics of physical or occupational therapy, usually demonstrated by certification from organizations like PATH Intl. Familiarity with adaptive riding equipment and safety protocols is essential, as is experience with lesson planning and record-keeping systems. Exceptional communication, patience, and empathy set instructors apart when working with individuals with diverse physical, emotional, or cognitive needs. These skills ensure safe, effective sessions that foster client progress and well-being while maintaining high safety standards for both riders and horses.

What is the difference between Therapeutic Riding vs Equine Therapist?

AspectTherapeutic RidingEquine Therapist
CertificationsCertified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, PATH Intl. certificationEquine-assisted therapy certification, related mental health or occupational therapy credentials
Work EnvironmentEquestrian centers, therapy facilities, clinicsTherapy clinics, mental health settings, equine therapy centers
Industry UsageFocuses on riding as a therapeutic activity for individuals with disabilitiesProvides mental health or physical therapy using horses, often including riding and groundwork

Therapeutic Riding primarily involves instructing individuals with disabilities in riding activities to promote physical and emotional well-being. Equine Therapists may incorporate riding but often focus more on therapy sessions that include groundwork and mental health interventions. Both roles require specialized certifications and work in equine-assisted environments, but their primary goals and methods differ.

More about Therapeutic Riding jobs
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Therapeutic Riding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Therapeutic Riding job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Helping Others with the Healing Power of Horses

Dream Catchers Therapeutic Riding Center

Toano, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Dream Catchers provides a wide range of equine assisted services. Our participants represent a diverse community of people with special needs, at-risk youth, and veterans. Dream Catchers’ therapeutic interventions and educational programs help develop healthier, more productive citizens creating a positive impact for our community today and in the future.

We are currently looking for "Side Walker" volunteers to assist in our Therapeutic Riding lessons by supporting our riders, whether it be physically, mentally, or emotionally.

Weekday and weekend availability, please contact if interested.

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