Why should I enroll my child with a developmental disorder in a therapeutic riding program? What are the benefits of this program?
Therapeutic horseback riding is recognized as one of the more progressive forms of therapy. The ability to control a horse as well as one's own body inspires self-confidence, responsibility, and teamwork. Best of all, it is a thoroughly enjoyable experience, which creates a special relationship between horse and rider. Riders learn balance, coordination, and self-assurance while receiving therapeutic sensory stimulation of their muscles. As a result of carefully planned lessons, poise, posture, strength and flexibility improve. A strong sense of responsibility develops as the rider learns to take part in the care of the horses and equipment. Classes encourage confidence, self esteem and a sense of accomplishment as new levels of expertise and new goals are met.
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What makes Thoughtful House Equestrians so special?
T.H.E. is part of the unique combination of medical care, education, and research provided at Thoughtful House. T.H.E.’s staff brings an extensive and diverse background of experience in working with children with disabilities in therapeutic riding as well as medical and educational settings.
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What is the cost of a therapeutic riding program?
Therapeutic riding (small group) $40/session
Hippotherapy (individual Speech therapy) $70/session
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Will insurance cover the cost of the program?
Some Medicaid programs (ie, Touch of CLASS and DSSW) do cover therapeutic riding. Thoughtful House Equestrians does not bill insurance. We will, however, assist you by providing invoices with coding for individual or group speech therapy where appropriate upon request. You are responsible for payment, which is due at the time of service.
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What does a session look like?
Therapeutic riding classes are offered in small groups (2-4 students). Classes can include equestrian activities of grooming, tacking/saddling, handling, and vaulting as well as riding in the arena and on trails. Hippotherapy focuses on speech therapy goals while on horseback. Volunteers are utilized to lead and walk along side the horse for safety as needed.

Special Programs for 2006-2007 include:
Equestrian Special Olympics
Vaulting Team
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Who are the staff?
Penni Bozadzis, MA CCC-SLP has ten years of experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist and five years experience as a registered level Therapeutic Riding Instructor certified through the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA). She began Thoughtful House’s therapeutic riding and hippotherapy program, Thoughtful House Equestrians, in March 2005.

The program is currently seeking qualified volunteers to serve as the Volunteer Coordinator and Fund Raising Coordinator.

We use a team approach to therapeutic riding. The team consists of riding instructors and volunteers. We collaborate with family members, educational specialists, behavioral specialists, and medical professionals involved in the student’s care.
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How are they trained?
Instructors must complete the training and certification process set by the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA), maintain current CPR & First Aid certification and a minimum of 10 hours of continuing education annually.
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