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Therapeutic Riding Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

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Therapeutic Riding information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$9

$33

$69

How much do therapeutic riding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for therapeutic riding in Silver Spring, MD is $33.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $64.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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
What are popular job titles related to Therapeutic Riding jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Therapeutic Riding jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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Therapeutic Riding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Therapeutic Riding job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,164 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

SKILLED HOME HEALTH OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST

Home Care Evolution

Vienna, VA • On-site

$95 - $100/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance
Occupational Therapist (OT) - Make a Meaningful Impact in Home Health Care
About Us
At Virginia Home Care Services, Inc, we're more than a home health agency-we're a compassionate, client-focused team committed to enhancing the lives of those we serve. We pride ourselves on delivering personalized, high-quality care that supports independence, dignity, and overall well-being. If you're seeking a rewarding career where your expertise truly matters, we'd love to welcome you to our team.
Position Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and skilled Occupational Therapist (OT) to provide one-on-one, client-centered therapy in the comfort of patients' homes. This role offers the opportunity to build meaningful connections while helping individuals regain independence, adapt to daily challenges, and improve their overall quality of life.
Service Areas
We proudly support patients throughout Loudoun County, VA, including:
Leesburg • Ashburn • Sterling • Purcellville • South Riding • Middleburg • Hamilton • Aldie • Lovettsville • Round Hill
What You'll Do
  • Conduct comprehensive client evaluations through medical history reviews, interviews, and functional assessments
  • Develop and implement personalized treatment plans tailored to each client's goals
  • Assist clients in relearning daily living activities, such as dressing after a stroke
  • Demonstrate therapeutic exercises, such as joint stretching for arthritis relief
  • Assess home environments to recommend safety and accessibility improvements
  • Educate family members on supportive care techniques
  • Recommend adaptive equipment and mobility aids, and provide instruction on proper use
  • Document client progress for care planning, billing, and compliance
What We're Looking For
  • Master's or Doctorate degree in Occupational Therapy from an accredited program
  • Active Virginia OT license
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in the field (Home Health preferred)
  • Current CPR certification
  • Strong communication, clinical judgment, and interpersonal skills
  • Compassion, patience, and commitment to client-centered care
Why Join Virginia Home Care?
  • Make a lasting impact on patients and families every day
  • Join a supportive, compassionate, and collaborative team
  • Enjoy flexible scheduling and autonomy in your role
  • Competitive compensation and professional growth opportunities
  • Become part of a trusted, established home health provider

Apply Today
Ready to advance your Occupational Therapy career with a company that truly values your dedication and expertise?
Apply NOW!
Equal Opportunity Employer
Virginia Home Care Services, Inc. is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences.
Flexible work from home options available.
Compensation: $95.00 - $100.00 per hour
Professional caregivers go by many names: homemakers, home care aides, home health aides, certified nursing assistants, personal care assistants, direct care workers. No matter the name, what they all have in common is a calling to care for people in the comfort of their own homes.
This agency is independently owned and operated. Your application will go directly to the agency, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this agency. All inquiries about employment at this agency should be made directly to the agency location, and not to Home Care Evolution Corporate.

Apply