THERAPEUTIC RIDING & EQUINE ASSISTED LEARNING
Therapeutic Riding Program
Metropolitan Equestrian's Therapeutic Riding Program is a mounted program that brings the benefits of horseback riding to children and adults with disabilities and additional support needs. Riding reduces anxiety and builds measurable skills in strength, balance, coordination, confidence and connection, and our instructors and volunteers tailor each rider's sessions to their individual goals and abilities.
This program is currently in the pilot phase at MET's Rock Creek Park Horse Center in Washington, DC only.
Our program serves riders across these areas:
Physical – Riders with conditions affecting mobility, strength, balance or sensory function, such as cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, spinal bifida, or hearing or visual impairment. The movement of the horse helps build core strength, balance and coordination.
Developmental – Riders with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), global developmental delay, sensory processing disorder, auditory processing disorder, or speech and language delays. Riding can help improve focus and attention span, support language and speech development, and strengthen a rider's ability to handle increasingly complex tasks.
Cognitive – Riders with Down syndrome, intellectual disabilities and other cognitive conditions. Following directions in the saddle builds focus, memory and independence as riders take on increasingly complex tasks.
Emotional – Riders managing emotional and behavioral challenges. Riding reduces anxiety, supports self-regulation, and builds confidence, connection and social skills.
Veteran – Service members and veterans, including those living with PTSD or trauma, connecting with MET's Horses of Honor Equine Program. Proper handling of a horse requires leadership and respect, and the bond that develops can help veterans rebuild trust, emotional regulation, confidence and communication.
Equine Assisted Learning Program
MET's Equine Assisted Learning Program is an unmounted program (no riding). Participants work with horses from the ground in a safe, supportive setting. Horses are highly sensitive to body language and emotion, and they respond to people honestly and without judgment. That makes them powerful partners in healing. Spending time with horses can help participants:
Lower stress and anxiety and feel more present in the moment
Build trust and form healthy, safe connections
Develop emotional awareness and regulation
Strengthen confidence, communication and problem-solving skills
Rebuild a sense of empowerment and control
For many participants, a horse’s quiet, steady presence opens a path to healing that traditional therapeutic approaches can’t always reach.
