Maryland Therapeutic Riding- Horses That Heal- Programs

WHO WE SERVE

MTR's programs are appropriate for individuals age two and above with cognitive, physical, and/or emotional disabilities. Children and adults with the following diagnoses commonly participate in and benefit from our programs: cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism, Multiple Sclerosis, brain injuries, learning disabilities, emotional disabilities, eating disorders, and anxiety disorders.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS

A horse's motion gently and rhythmically moves the rider's body in a manner similar to human gait, and therefore individuals with physical disabilities often show improvement in flexibility, balance and muscle strength. For individuals with cognitive or emotional disabilities, the unique relationship formed with the horse leads to increased confidence, patience, self-awareness, and self-esteem. All participants benefit from the sense of independence and acceptance found through equine assisted activities.

OUR PROGRAMS

Maryland Therapeutic Riding provides equine assisted activities to individuals with special needs age two and above. Our programs include Therapeutic Riding, Hippotherapy, and Equine Facilitated Learning. MTR is a NARHA (North American Riding for the Handicapped) Premier Accredited Center. This voluntary accreditation process recognizes the fact that MTR has met established industry standards in administrative, facility and program areas. MTR is the only NARHA accredited center in Anne Arundel County.

Therapeutic Riding

This is a goal oriented program designed to teach horsemanship and riding skills to individuals with special needs. Lessons are taught by NARHA certified therapeutic riding instructors. Both individual and group lessons are offered. Maximum class size is three students.

Hippotherapy - Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapy

In this unique form of rehabilitation, therapists utilize the horse and the horse's movement in conjunction with traditional therapy techniques to improve functional outcomes. MTR offers private occupational, physical, and speech therapy sessions with AHA (American Hippotherapy Association) trained and MD licensed therapists. The horse is a wonderful motivator and clients are very responsive in this type of treatment setting.

Occupational Therapy is designed for individuals who wish to improve motor control, balance, attention to task, problem solving skills, cognition, and sensory processing.

Physical Therapy is designed for individuals who wish to increase their balance, strength, endurance, and flexibility and improve their gross motor and mobility skills.

Speech Therapy is designed for individuals who wish to improve speech and language communication through augmentative communication, sign language and verbal modalities.

Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL)

This program offers a unique approach to self discovery through specially designed interactive experiences with the horse. Experiences promote personal growth through improving self-esteem and self-awareness; developing trust and overcoming fear; increasing problem solving and communication skills; and developing decision making and goal setting abilities. Sessions are unmounted and are conducted by a certified professional. EFL is appropriate for both individuals and groups.